It’s crisp around the edges and moist and tender in the center. It’s like a mash-up between cornbread and casserole, and it is 100% delightful. This beloved southern dish is a must-have at Thanksgiving and special occasions. So are Paula’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese, Green Bean Casserole, and Potato Soup!
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
Paula Deen is known all over the country as the queen of southern cooking. Out of all her dishes, this corn casserole is one of the best. Also called spoon bread or creamed corn casserole, this dish has the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s crisp, tender, sweet, creamy, and buttery, too! It’s everything you can ask for in comfort food. Plus, corn casserole pairs great with everything, making it such a versatile side dish. Whether it’s chicken, pork, or beef, your meal will be a certified hit. Best of all, it’s such a breeze to make. In just 20 minutes, it’s done.
Ingredients
Whole Kernel Corn — Paula Deen’s original recipe calls for fresh corn, but there’s nothing wrong with using the canned kind, either. It tastes great, and it’s hassle-free!Cream-Style Corn — Since cream-style corn contains pureed corn, it gives the casserole that lovely ooey-gooey consistency.Sour Cream — It’s responsible for making the casserole oh-so-creamy. You can use Greek yogurt instead, for a more guilt-free dish.Melted Butter — For added flavor.Corn Muffin Mix — You can make your own mixture out of cornmeal and flour, etc., but the boxed mix will make your life so much easier.Cheddar Cheese — Shred it yourself for maximum flavor.
Tips for the Best Corn Casserole
Instead of using a boxed corn muffin mix, make your own by combining flour, sugar, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and oil.For extra moist and tender corn casserole, stir the cans of corn and sour cream together first before adding the corn muffin mix. Do not over-mix. Stir just until the mixture is well-combined. For a fluffier corn casserole, beat two eggs and a teaspoon of cornstarch into the mixture. Add cream cheese for a hint of tanginess. Just be sure to cut the sour cream in half. Up the casserole’s flavor by adding bacon, green chilies, jalapenos, green onions, and other cheeses.Sprinkle some cayenne pepper to spice things up.Shred your own cheese. Sure, it takes a little more effort, but a block of cheese has more flavor and melts better. Not to mention, it’s cheaper than pre-shredded cheese!Instead of a rectangular dish, bake the casserole in a round dish for extra crisp edges.Cover the casserole for the first 20 minutes of baking. This will prevent the top from browning too much.
How to Tell When Corn Casserole is Done
The surface should be golden brown. Don’t worry if it’s still jiggly in the center: that’s how it’s supposed to be.
How to Cook Corn Casserole in a Crockpot
Simply add the combined ingredients into a greased Crockpot. Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or on low for 4. Top with shredded cheese at the final 20 minutes of cooking.
Can Corn Casserole Be Savory?
Some like their corn casserole sweet, others prefer it savory. With this recipe, you can make it either way! For a sweet casserole, add ¼ cup (or more, depending on your preference) of white sugar into the mixture. If you like yours savory, just add a pinch. Yup, even if you want your casserole savory, still add a bit of sugar. It will enhance the flavors of the corn even more.
How to Freeze and Reheat Corn Casserole
To Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. To Reheat: Rewarm it at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 20 minutes. For individual leftover servings, reheat in the microwave or a skillet until warm all the way through. Serve with a piece of fried egg for a hearty breakfast. To Freeze: Allow the casserole to cool completely. Wrap it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. I must warn you, though, the texture won’t be the same as a freshly baked or refrigerated casserole.
Can I Make the Casserole Ahead?
You absolutely can! The beauty of this corn casserole is that it tastes even better when made ahead! Just combine all the ingredients, minus the cheese, and place them in a greased baking dish. You can even mix them together directly in the baking dish for easier cleanup. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You can make corn casserole up to 48 hours in advance. Click on a star to rate it!
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