This incredibly easy corn casserole recipe, inspired by classic comfort food dishes and reminiscent of the Pioneer Woman’s style, is set to become a staple side dish at your dinner table. Taking cues from beloved recipes like Paula Deen’s famous corn casserole, this dish utilizes simple ingredients and straightforward methods, perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can create a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying corn casserole that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and delivers delicious results every time.
A wooden spoon scooping up Corn Casserole from a skillet.
This corn casserole recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. It’s a “dump and bake” dream, much like many of the Pioneer Woman’s approachable and family-friendly recipes. Ideal for potlucks, Thanksgiving, Christmas dinners, or any occasion calling for a comforting side, this corn casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. From roasted chicken and ham to grilled steak, its creamy texture and sweet corn flavor complement savory dishes perfectly.
Simple Ingredients for a Flavorful Casserole
The beauty of this Pioneer Woman inspired corn casserole lies in its humble yet delicious ingredients. You likely have most of them in your kitchen already!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Creamed Corn: The base of our creamy casserole, providing moisture and sweet corn flavor.
- Whole Kernel Sweet Corn: Adds texture and a burst of fresh corn taste. Make sure to drain it well to avoid a watery casserole.
- Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: This pantry staple is the secret to the casserole’s slightly sweet and cornbread-like consistency. No need to prepare it separately – just use the mix straight from the box!
- Sour Cream: For tanginess and extra creaminess, sour cream balances the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients.
- Melted Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor, ensuring a moist and tender casserole.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese provides a wonderful cheesy flavor that complements the corn perfectly. For the best melt and flavor, shred your own cheese from a block.
Baking Your Corn Casserole to Golden Perfection: Oven Method
The oven method is the classic way to bake this corn casserole, resulting in a golden brown top and a perfectly set center.
- Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish or a 10-inch cast iron skillet.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well combined. Make sure not to overmix.
A mixing bowl before and after mixing ingredients for corn casserole
- Pour into Dish: Pour the corn mixture into your prepared casserole dish or skillet, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. The casserole should be mostly set but still slightly soft in the center.
A cast iron skillet with corn casserole before and after baking.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the corn casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit more and makes it easier to serve.
A corn casserole topped with cheese before baking, and a spoon scooping some out after baking.
Alternative Baking Tip: For an even cheesier casserole and slightly different texture, you can mix half of the cheddar cheese into the corn mixture before baking and then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Slow Cooker Corn Casserole: Effortless and Delicious
For a hands-off approach, the slow cooker method is fantastic. It’s perfect when oven space is limited, especially during holidays.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter, just as you would for the oven method.
- Transfer to Crock Pot: Lightly grease your slow cooker. Pour the corn mixture into the Crock Pot and spread evenly.
- Cook: Cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4 hours. Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for firmness in the center to ensure it’s done.
- Add Cheese: During the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover and let the cheese melt.
- Serve: Once the cheese is melted and the casserole is set, it’s ready to serve!
Make-Ahead Magic: Preparing Your Casserole in Advance
This corn casserole is incredibly convenient as it can be prepared ahead of time in a couple of ways:
Method 1: Assemble and Refrigerate
- Prepare the corn casserole mixture as directed, but do not add the cheese yet.
- Pour the mixture into your casserole dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- When ready to bake, let the casserole sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed in the oven method, adding the cheese in the last 15 minutes of baking.
Method 2: Bake and Reheat
- Bake the casserole completely, including the cheese topping.
- Let it cool down completely, then cover and refrigerate.
- To reheat, bake covered at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to warm through. Then, uncover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for another 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again.
Tips for the Best Corn Casserole
- Sweetness Preference: If you prefer a sweeter corn casserole, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to the mixture. However, the Jiffy mix already adds a touch of sweetness.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheddar and pepper jack for a little spice.
- Add-Ins: For extra flavor and texture, consider adding cooked bacon crumbles, diced green chiles, or sautéed onions and peppers to the corn mixture.
Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Corn Casserole
Corn casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a wide variety of main courses. Here are a few ideas:
A plate full of corn casserole with a fork.
- Holiday Feasts: Perfect alongside turkey, ham, or prime rib for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners.
- Comfort Food Dinners: Serve with meatloaf, roasted chicken, pot roast, or pork chops for a cozy and satisfying meal.
- BBQ and Cookouts: A great addition to BBQ ribs, pulled pork, burgers, and grilled chicken at summer cookouts.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover corn casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing. For best quality, enjoy it fresh!
Enjoy Your Pioneer Woman Inspired Corn Casserole
This easy and delicious corn casserole recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Its simple preparation and comforting flavors make it a winner for any occasion. Give it a try and experience the joy of homemade comfort food!
Did you make this recipe? Let us know how it turned out! Leave a rating and comment below! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
