Paula Deen’s Southern Corn Casserole: Easy 5-Ingredient Recipe

Table of Contents

• 1. Discover Paula Deen’s Famous Southern Corn Casserole
• 2. Why This Easy Southern Corn Casserole is a Must-Try
• 3. The 5 Simple Ingredients You’ll Need
• 4. Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Casserole
  • 4.1. Gather & Prep Your Ingredients
  • 4.2. Combine and Mix Thoroughly
  • 4.3. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
• 5. Expert Tips for the Best Corn Casserole
• 6. Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings
• 7. Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
• 8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you’re looking for a delightful, comforting side dish that’s incredibly simple to make, then look no further than Paula Deen’s Southern Corn Casserole: Easy 5-Ingredient Recipe. This classic, creamy casserole is a staple in Southern kitchens and for good reason: it’s unbelievably delicious and takes minimal effort to prepare. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a simple weeknight meal, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Get ready to embrace the warm, rich flavors of the South with a dish that tastes homemade without all the fuss. We’ll guide you through every step to ensure your corn casserole turns out perfectly every time.

1. Discover Paula Deen’s Famous Southern Corn Casserole

Paula Deen, the undisputed queen of Southern cooking, is renowned for her comforting, butter-laden recipes that evoke a sense of home. Among her many beloved creations, the Southern Corn Casserole stands out as a true icon. It’s a dish that perfectly encapsulates the heartiness and simplicity of traditional Southern cuisine.

This creamy, savory baked corn pudding has a texture that’s somewhere between a custard and a traditional casserole, offering a delightful mouthfeel. It’s truly a celebration of sweet corn, made even better with a few simple additions.

2. Why This Easy Southern Corn Casserole is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons why this particular Southern corn casserole recipe has garnered so much love. Firstly, its incredible ease of preparation makes it a standout. With just five main ingredients, you can whip up a batch in minutes, making it ideal for busy cooks.

Beyond its simplicity, the flavor profile is simply irresistible. The sweet corn blends beautifully with the creamy elements, creating a rich and satisfying side dish. It’s also incredibly versatile, pairing well with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to holiday ham. Everyone loves a good corn casserole!

3. The 5 Simple Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beauties of Paula Deen’s Southern Corn Casserole is its straightforward ingredient list. You likely have most of these items in your pantry or fridge already, making it super easy to prepare on a whim. The magic truly lies in the combination of these few, humble components.

• 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can cream-style corn, undrained
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

4. Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Casserole

Making this classic Southern Corn Casserole couldn’t be simpler. Just follow these easy steps and you’ll have a delightful side dish ready for your family or guests in no time. Precision is key for the best results, so let’s get cooking!

4.1. Gather & Prep Your Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. Melt your butter.

4.2. Combine and Mix Thoroughly

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, undrained cream-style corn, softened cream cheese, and melted butter.
5. Stir everything together until well combined and the cream cheese is fully incorporated with no lumps. A whisk or spatula works great here.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more later if needed.

4.3. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

7. Pour the corn mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly around the edges, and lightly golden brown on top. The center should be set.
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set further and prevents it from being too runny.

5. Expert Tips for the Best Corn Casserole

While this recipe for Paula Deen’s Southern Corn Casserole is inherently simple, a few expert tips can elevate it even further. For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of paprika to the mix before baking. You can also experiment with different cheeses.

If you prefer a thicker, more spoonable texture, you can add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch or flour to the mixture. Just ensure it’s fully whisked in to avoid lumps. For a slight crunch, a topping of crushed Ritz crackers mixed with a little melted butter can be added during the last 10 minutes of baking.

For more fantastic side dish ideas and cooking techniques, Read our in-depth guide here.

6. Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings

This versatile Southern Corn Casserole makes an outstanding addition to almost any meal. It’s a fantastic side for holiday feasts, complementing dishes like roasted turkey, spiral-sliced ham, or prime rib. For a weeknight dinner, it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, pork chops, or meatloaf.

Consider serving it alongside other Southern staples like collard greens, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a truly authentic spread. The creamy texture provides a wonderful contrast to richer main courses. It’s a comforting classic that makes every meal feel special.

7. Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

One of the many advantages of this easy corn casserole recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine all ingredients, pour into your baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge 30 minutes before baking and add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Leftover corn casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. Freezing is also an option; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For more comprehensive tips on storing casseroles and other Southern recipes, check out reputable cooking resources like Food Network.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?

Yes, you absolutely can! If using frozen corn, thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the mixture. The quantity should remain the same.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

It’s best to use full-fat cream cheese in block form for the richest flavor and best texture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing and to prevent lumps in your Paula Deen’s Southern Corn Casserole.

Can I make this corn casserole spicy?

Absolutely! For a touch of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, some diced jalapeños (fresh or canned), or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred spice level.