If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, buttery, and incredibly easy to prepare, Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
This classic Southern-inspired corn casserole combines sweet corn, creamy corn, sour cream, melted butter, and cornbread muffin mix to create a rich, tender casserole with a beautifully golden top.
Every spoonful delivers a delicious combination of sweet corn kernels, soft cornbread texture, and creamy, cheesy goodness.
The outside becomes lightly golden and slightly crisp during baking, while the center stays wonderfully moist, fluffy, and tender.
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need complicated ingredients, special equipment, or advanced cooking skills to prepare a delicious homemade corn casserole.
With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of preparation, you can create a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for almost any occasion.
This casserole is especially popular for Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas celebrations, Easter gatherings, Sunday family meals, and holiday potlucks.
It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, baked chicken, beef roast, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and other classic comfort foods.
Whether you’re hosting a large holiday dinner or simply looking for an easy side dish to serve with your favorite family meal, this creamy corn casserole is guaranteed to bring warmth and comfort to your table.
The recipe below is a homemade version inspired by Paula Deen’s well-known corn casserole, with a generous cheesy topping similar to the dish pictured.
Why You’ll Love This Corn Casserole Recipe
1. Made with Simple Ingredients
This recipe uses basic pantry and refrigerator staples, including canned corn, creamed corn, sour cream, butter, cornbread mix, and cheese.
You won’t need any unusual ingredients or complicated preparation techniques.
2. Rich, Creamy, and Cheesy
The combination of sour cream, melted butter, and sweet corn creates an incredibly moist casserole.
A generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese adds richness and a delicious golden crust.
3. Perfect for Holiday Dinners
Corn casserole is a classic addition to Thanksgiving and Christmas menus.
Its comforting flavor pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and other traditional holiday sides.
4. Quick and Easy Preparation
You can prepare the entire casserole mixture in approximately 10 minutes.
Simply combine the ingredients, transfer everything to a baking dish, and let the oven do the work.
5. Great for Feeding a Crowd
This recipe makes approximately eight generous servings or ten smaller holiday side-dish portions.
It can also be doubled for larger gatherings.
6. Delicious Leftovers
Corn casserole reheats beautifully, making it a convenient choice for meal preparation and holiday leftovers.
What Is Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Paula Deen’s corn casserole is a popular Southern-style side dish made with a combination of whole-kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, butter, and corn muffin mix.
These ingredients are stirred together and baked until the mixture becomes tender, creamy, and lightly golden.
Unlike traditional cornbread, which has a firmer and more bread-like texture, corn casserole is softer, richer, and more moist.
The combination of creamed corn and sour cream gives the casserole a texture somewhere between cornbread and corn pudding.
Adding shredded cheddar cheese creates an even richer version with a golden, cheesy topping.
The result is a comforting dish that tastes slightly sweet from the corn, savory from the cheese, and buttery throughout.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, and Servings
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
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Resting Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
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Servings: 8
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Difficulty Level: Easy
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Cooking Method: Oven-baked
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Cuisine: Southern American-inspired
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Course: Side Dish
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Best For: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, potlucks, family dinners, and holiday gatherings
Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
This creamy corn casserole requires only a few simple ingredients.
Main Ingredients
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1 can (15.25 ounces) whole-kernel sweet corn, drained
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1 can (14.75 ounces) creamed corn, undrained
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1 package (8.5 ounces) Jiffy corn muffin mix
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1 cup sour cream
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
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½ teaspoon garlic powder, optional
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¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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¼ teaspoon salt, optional, depending on the cheese and corn muffin mix
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Optional Ingredients
For additional flavor, you can include:
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¼ cup finely diced green onions
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½ cup diced red bell pepper
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1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup extra sweet corn kernels
These additions are optional and can be adjusted according to your preferences.
Understanding the Key Ingredients
Whole-Kernel Corn
Whole-kernel corn provides sweetness, texture, and little bursts of juicy corn flavor throughout the casserole.
Drain the corn thoroughly before mixing it with the remaining ingredients.
Excess liquid can make the casserole too wet.
Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is one of the most important ingredients in this recipe.
It creates the signature soft, creamy texture that distinguishes corn casserole from traditional cornbread.
Do not drain the creamed corn.
Corn Muffin Mix
Corn muffin mix gives the casserole structure and helps it set during baking.
Jiffy corn muffin mix is commonly used in this style of recipe.
It also contributes a lightly sweet cornbread flavor.
If you avoid pork, check the ingredients on your corn muffin mix. Some traditional mixes contain animal shortening; a vegetarian corn muffin mix is a suitable alternative.
Sour Cream
Sour cream adds moisture, richness, and a subtle tanginess.
It balances the sweetness of the corn and helps create a tender interior.
Melted Butter
Butter adds richness and enhances the casserole’s comforting flavor.
Allow the melted butter to cool slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar cheese adds a savory contrast to the naturally sweet corn.
It also creates the golden, lightly crisp topping shown in the finished casserole.
For the best melting texture, shred the cheese yourself when possible.
Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley is an optional finishing garnish.
It adds a beautiful pop of green color and makes the casserole look especially attractive for holiday serving.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole – Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9-by-9-inch baking dish or a similar 2-quart casserole dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
Make sure to coat the bottom and sides so the casserole releases easily after baking.
Set the prepared dish aside.
Step 2: Drain the Whole-Kernel Corn
Open the can of whole-kernel sweet corn.
Pour it into a fine-mesh strainer and allow the liquid to drain completely.
Gently shake the strainer to remove excess moisture.
Do not drain the creamed corn because its liquid is essential for the casserole’s creamy texture.
Step 3: Combine the Corn
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained whole-kernel corn and the entire can of creamed corn.
Stir gently until evenly combined.
The mixture should look creamy with visible whole corn kernels throughout.
Step 4: Add the Sour Cream
Add one cup of sour cream to the corn mixture.
Stir until the sour cream is evenly distributed.
This ingredient helps create the soft, tender texture that makes this casserole so comforting.
Step 5: Add the Melted Butter
Pour the slightly cooled melted butter into the bowl.
Stir gently until incorporated.
The butter will add richness and help the casserole develop a beautiful golden color during baking.
Step 6: Add the Corn Muffin Mix
Sprinkle the entire package of corn muffin mix over the wet ingredients.
Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold the dry mix into the corn mixture.
Stir just until no large pockets of dry mix remain.
Avoid overmixing, as this can make the finished casserole denser.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Fold in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Add garlic powder, black pepper, and salt if desired.
Stir gently until the cheese is distributed throughout the batter.
Reserve the remaining cup of cheddar cheese for the topping.
Step 8: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the corn casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Smooth the surface gently without pressing down too firmly.
The mixture will be thick and creamy.
Step 9: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish on the center rack of the preheated oven.
Bake uncovered for approximately 40–45 minutes.
The edges should begin turning golden brown, and the center should appear mostly set rather than liquid.
A slight softness in the center is normal because corn casserole is naturally moist.
Step 10: Add the Cheddar Cheese Topping
Carefully remove the casserole from the oven.
Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
Return the casserole to the oven.
Continue baking for approximately 10–15 minutes until the cheese melts and the top becomes golden and bubbly.
If the casserole is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
Step 11: Check for Doneness
The casserole is ready when the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
A toothpick inserted near the center should come out without wet, uncooked batter, although moist crumbs are normal.
The casserole should feel tender but not soupy.
Step 12: Allow the Casserole to Rest
Remove the baking dish from the oven.
Place it on a heat-safe surface and allow the casserole to rest for approximately 10 minutes.
This resting period helps the casserole firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.
Step 13: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the golden cheese topping.
Serve warm directly from the baking dish.
Use a large serving spoon to scoop generous portions onto plates.
Enjoy the creamy corn filling, buttery flavor, and delicious melted cheese topping.
What Should the Perfect Corn Casserole Look and Taste Like?
A properly baked corn casserole should have a beautiful contrast between its golden exterior and creamy interior.
Golden, Cheesy Top
The surface should be lightly browned with melted cheddar cheese.
Some areas may develop darker golden spots, adding extra flavor and texture.
Soft and Creamy Center
The inside should remain moist and tender.
Unlike traditional cornbread, corn casserole should not be dry or crumbly.
Sweet Corn Flavor
Whole corn kernels should be visible throughout the casserole.
They provide little bursts of sweetness in every bite.
Buttery and Savory Taste
The combination of butter, sour cream, and cheddar cheese creates a rich, comforting flavor.
Spoonable Texture
The finished casserole should hold together loosely when served, but it doesn’t need to form perfectly firm squares.
Its creamy texture is part of what makes it so delicious.
Expert Tips for the Best Corn Casserole
1. Drain the Whole-Kernel Corn Thoroughly
Too much liquid can prevent the casserole from setting properly.
Always drain the whole-kernel corn before adding it to the mixture.
2. Never Drain the Creamed Corn
Creamed corn provides the moisture necessary for the casserole’s signature texture.
Use the entire can, including the liquid.
3. Avoid Overmixing the Batter
Once the corn muffin mix is added, stir only until combined.
Overmixing can affect the casserole’s tenderness.
4. Use Freshly Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Freshly shredded cheese generally melts more smoothly than packaged pre-shredded cheese.
Sharp cheddar adds a stronger savory flavor.
5. Don’t Overbake
Corn casserole should remain creamy inside.
Baking too long can make the edges dry and the center overly firm.
6. Add Cheese Near the End
Adding most of the cheese during the final baking stage helps create a golden topping without excessive browning.
7. Allow the Casserole to Rest
Resting for 10 minutes makes serving easier and allows the texture to stabilize.
8. Use the Right Baking Dish
A smaller, deeper baking dish creates a thicker casserole.
A larger dish creates a thinner casserole and may require less baking time.
9. Adjust the Seasonings
Corn muffin mix and cheese already contain salt.
Taste and adjust additional seasonings carefully.
10. Serve Warm
Corn casserole tastes especially delicious when the cheese is melted and the center is warm and creamy.
Delicious Corn Casserole Variations
1. Extra Cheesy Corn Casserole
For an even cheesier casserole, increase the cheddar cheese to two cups.
Mix one cup into the batter and sprinkle the remaining cup over the top.
You can also combine cheddar with Monterey Jack for a smoother, creamier topping.
2. Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Casserole
Add one finely chopped jalapeño to the batter.
The jalapeño provides a gentle spicy kick that balances the sweet corn.
For more heat, leave in some of the seeds.
3. Cream Cheese Corn Casserole
Replace ½ cup of sour cream with four ounces of softened cream cheese.
This creates a richer, denser, creamier casserole.
4. Mexican-Inspired Corn Casserole
Add:
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½ cup diced green chilies
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½ teaspoon chili powder
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Serve with lime wedges and sour cream.
5. Garlic Parmesan Corn Casserole
Add two minced garlic cloves and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese to the batter.
This variation has a more savory flavor and pairs beautifully with roasted chicken.
6. Green Onion Corn Casserole
Fold ¼ cup chopped green onions into the mixture.
Sprinkle additional green onions over the casserole before serving.
7. Spicy Pepper Jack Corn Casserole
Replace half of the cheddar cheese with shredded pepper Jack.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
8. Vegetarian Corn Casserole
Use a vegetarian corn muffin mix and vegetarian-friendly cheese.
This keeps the casserole meat-free while preserving its creamy texture.
9. Gluten-Free Corn Casserole
Replace the regular corn muffin mix with a gluten-free corn muffin mix of comparable weight.
Check all packaged ingredients for gluten and follow any additional liquid requirements specified by the mix.
10. Holiday Herb Corn Casserole
Add a small amount of fresh parsley, thyme, and chives.
This creates a fragrant variation that pairs especially well with Thanksgiving and Christmas meals.
What to Serve with Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
This creamy Southern corn casserole pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main dishes and holiday sides.
Thanksgiving Dinner
Serve it alongside roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce.
The sweet corn flavor complements traditional Thanksgiving dishes wonderfully.
Christmas Dinner
Pair the casserole with roasted beef, baked chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables.
Its golden, cheesy topping looks especially attractive on a Christmas buffet.
Sunday Family Dinner
Serve with oven-roasted chicken, beef meatloaf, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad.
Barbecue-Inspired Meals
Corn casserole is delicious with barbecue chicken, grilled beef, baked beans, and coleslaw.
Potluck Gatherings
Bring it to potlucks with baked pasta, roasted vegetables, chicken casseroles, and other crowd-friendly dishes.
How to Make Corn Casserole Ahead of Time
Corn casserole is a convenient make-ahead side dish for busy holidays.
Option 1: Prepare the Ingredients in Advance
Measure the dry ingredients and refrigerate the dairy ingredients separately.
Combine everything shortly before baking.
This method helps preserve the corn muffin mix’s leavening action.
Option 2: Bake the Casserole Ahead
Prepare and bake the casserole according to the instructions.
Allow it to cool.
Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days before serving.
Reheat in the oven until thoroughly heated.
Option 3: Prepare for a Holiday Buffet
Bake the casserole earlier in the day.
Keep it refrigerated until reheating time.
Reheat shortly before serving so the cheese topping is warm and melted.
How to Store Leftover Corn Casserole
Refrigerator Storage
Allow the casserole to cool slightly.
Transfer leftovers to airtight containers or cover the baking dish tightly.
Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
Store for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer Storage
Allow the casserole to cool completely.
Cut into portions or transfer to freezer-safe containers.
Wrap tightly to reduce freezer burn.
Freeze for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
Reheating in the Oven
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil.
Reheat for approximately 15–25 minutes, depending on portion size, until the center reaches 165°F (74°C).
Reheating in the Microwave
Place an individual portion on a microwave-safe plate.
Cover loosely and heat in short intervals until thoroughly warmed.
The microwave is convenient, although the topping may lose some crispness.
Common Corn Casserole Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using Too Much Liquid
Excess moisture can make the casserole watery.
Drain whole-kernel corn completely and measure ingredients carefully.
2. Forgetting the Corn Muffin Mix
Corn muffin mix provides structure.
Without it, the casserole will have a much softer, more pudding-like texture.
3. Overmixing the Batter
Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
Overmixing can make the casserole dense.
4. Using the Wrong Baking Dish Size
A very deep casserole may require additional baking time.
A shallow dish may cook faster.
Adjust baking time based on the depth of the mixture.
5. Adding Too Much Cheese
Although cheese is delicious, excessive amounts can make the casserole greasy or heavy.
Use a balanced amount for the best texture.
6. Baking at Too High a Temperature
A very hot oven can brown the outside before the center sets.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
7. Cutting the Casserole Immediately
The casserole will be softer when first removed from the oven.
Allow it to rest for approximately 10 minutes before serving.
8. Overbaking
Overbaking can dry out the casserole.
Remove it once the center is set and the top is golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Made Of?
The classic version is made with whole-kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and corn muffin mix.
This variation also includes cheddar cheese for an extra creamy, cheesy finish.
Is Corn Casserole the Same as Corn Pudding?
Not exactly.
Corn pudding is generally softer and more custard-like, often using eggs and milk.
Corn casserole made with corn muffin mix has more structure while remaining moist and creamy.
Do You Drain the Corn for Corn Casserole?
Drain the whole-kernel corn, but do not drain the creamed corn.
The creamed corn provides essential moisture.
Can I Make Corn Casserole Without Jiffy Mix?
Yes.
You can use another corn muffin mix of similar weight or prepare a homemade cornmeal-based baking mixture.
The texture may vary depending on the substitute.
Does Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Need Eggs?
The commonly known five-ingredient version does not require eggs.
Corn muffin mix provides structure, while sour cream and creamed corn create moisture.
Can I Add Cheese to Corn Casserole?
Absolutely.
Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper Jack, and Parmesan are all delicious additions.
How Do I Know When Corn Casserole Is Done?
The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set rather than liquid.
A toothpick inserted near the center should not come out coated in uncooked batter.
Why Is My Corn Casserole Runny?
Possible causes include excess liquid, an incorrect baking dish size, insufficient baking time, or inaccurate ingredient measurements.
Allowing the casserole to rest after baking can also help it firm up.
Can I Make Corn Casserole the Night Before?
Yes.
For the best texture, bake it ahead and refrigerate it, then reheat before serving.
Alternatively, measure the ingredients separately and combine them just before baking.
Can I Freeze Corn Casserole?
Yes.
Freeze cooled portions in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Canned Corn?
Yes.
Thaw frozen corn completely and drain any excess moisture before using it.
Can I Use Fresh Corn?
Yes.
Fresh corn kernels work beautifully in this recipe.
Use approximately 1¾ cups of kernels to replace the can of whole-kernel corn.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes.
Use a certified gluten-free corn muffin mix and check the remaining packaged ingredients.
Can I Make Corn Casserole Without Sour Cream?
You can substitute plain full-fat Greek yogurt for sour cream.
The casserole may taste slightly tangier and have a somewhat different texture.
Can I Make Corn Casserole in a Slow Cooker?
Yes.
Grease the slow cooker, add the prepared mixture, and cook on high for approximately 2–3 hours or low for 3–4 hours, checking for doneness.
The top will not brown as much as an oven-baked casserole.
What Cheese Is Best for Corn Casserole?
Sharp cheddar cheese is an excellent choice because its savory flavor balances the sweetness of the corn.
Monterey Jack is another good option for a creamy texture.
Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes.
Double the ingredients and divide the mixture between two baking dishes, or use a larger dish with sufficient capacity.
Baking time may need adjustment.
Is Corn Casserole Served Hot or Cold?
Corn casserole is best served warm.
The texture is soft and creamy, and the cheese topping tastes best when melted.
Is Corn Casserole Good for Thanksgiving?
Yes.
Corn casserole is a popular Thanksgiving side dish because it pairs well with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables.
Can I Make Corn Casserole Without Cheese?
Yes.
Simply omit the cheddar cheese for a version closer to the traditional five-ingredient recipe.
The casserole will still be rich, buttery, and creamy.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is the kind of comforting, homemade side dish that never goes out of style.
With its golden, cheesy topping, sweet corn kernels, buttery flavor, and soft, creamy center, it’s easy to understand why this Southern-inspired classic is so popular for holiday dinners and family gatherings.
The combination of whole-kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and corn muffin mix creates a delicious casserole with very little effort.
Adding cheddar cheese makes it even more irresistible, creating a beautifully golden surface that contrasts perfectly with the tender interior.
Whether you’re preparing Thanksgiving dinner, hosting a Christmas celebration, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply making a cozy Sunday family meal, this easy corn casserole is a wonderful addition to your menu.
It’s simple enough for beginner cooks, convenient for busy holiday schedules, and versatile enough to customize with your favorite cheeses, herbs, and seasonings.
Save this Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole recipe for your next family gathering, share it with someone who loves Southern comfort food, and let us know how you like to serve your corn casserole!
Sometimes the simplest recipes become the most memorable, and this creamy, cheesy corn casserole is a perfect example.