This Classic Corn Casserole combines the sweetness of corn, the richness of sour cream, and the buttery goodness of melted butter for a comforting and delicious side dish.
Baked to golden perfection with a soft, custard-like texture, it’s the perfect addition to any family meal or holiday spread. Whether you’re serving it with roast chicken, barbecue, or pot roast, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Classic Corn Casserole is incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients, yet it delivers big on flavor.
The combination of whole kernel corn, creamed corn, and sour cream creates a rich and creamy base that’s perfectly complemented by the corn muffin mix.
For extra indulgence, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top gives it a melty, cheesy finish. It’s comforting, filling, and a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredient Highlights
Whole Kernel Corn: The whole kernel corn provides a slightly sweet, crisp bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
Creamed Corn: The creamed corn adds smoothness and moisture, making the casserole soft and velvety.
Sour Cream: Sour cream brings richness and a slight tang, balancing out the sweetness of the corn.
Corn Muffin Mix: The corn muffin mix gives this casserole its structure and flavor, creating a slightly sweet, moist texture.
Cheddar Cheese (Optional): The cheddar cheese adds a savory, melty topping that brings even more flavor to the dish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the casserole dense rather than light and fluffy.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter casserole, use sweetened corn muffin mix. For a more savory version, skip the cheese or use a sharper cheese like Parmesan.
Bake Until Golden: Make sure the casserole bakes until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set. This ensures the perfect texture.
Add Cheese at the End: If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on top in the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow it to melt perfectly without burning.
How to Make Classic Corn Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and melted butter.
Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Add Corn Muffin Mix
Stir in the corn muffin mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the casserole’s texture.
Step 4: Pour into Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can check for doneness by gently tapping the center with a spoon—it should feel firm and not jiggle.
Step 6: Add Cheese
If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on top of the casserole during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. This will allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.
Serving Ideas
This Classic Corn Casserole is the perfect side dish for many meals.
Serve it alongside roast turkey, grilled chicken, or a hearty pot roast for a filling dinner.
It’s also a great addition to any holiday meal, especially Thanksgiving or Christmas, where it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
For a lighter option, enjoy it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage
Store any leftover Corn Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat it in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep it moist and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
You can also freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it the next day for a quick, stress-free meal.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan. You can even mix different cheeses for added flavor.
Can I make this without sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like corn kernels, chopped bell peppers, or diced onions to give the casserole more flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Corn Casserole is a simple yet delicious side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table.
With its rich, creamy texture and golden, crispy top, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or potluck.
Add some cheddar cheese for extra flavor and serve it with your favorite main dishes for a meal that’s sure to impress.
Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir to combine.
- Add corn muffin mix and stir until just combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until golden brown.
- If using cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can mix the batter ahead and refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking.
- Cheese Variations: Try pepper jack or mozzarella for a fun twist.
- Add-Ins: Crumbled cooked bacon or chopped green onions can be stirred into the batter for added flavor.
- Reheating Tip: Warm leftovers in the oven at 325°F for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
- Freezer Friendly: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
