Are you craving a taste of the South? Then look no further than this creamy, dreamy Corn Pudding, inspired by the Queen of Southern Cuisine herself, Paula Deen! This isn't just any corn pudding; it's a comforting classic, bursting with sweet corn flavor and a touch of buttery richness. Perfect as a side dish for any occasion – from family dinners to holiday feasts – this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your home. It's a delicious dish that’s surprisingly simple to make, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen corn (thawed and drained)
- 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures easy removal of your perfectly baked corn pudding later.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and sugar until well combined. The smoother the mixture, the creamier the pudding will be.
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Add Corn and Cheese (Optional): Gently stir in the thawed frozen corn, canned corn, and melted butter. If using, add the shredded cheddar cheese now. Don't overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
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Bake to Golden Perfection: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and lightly golden brown on top. The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
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Rest & Serve: Once baked, let the corn pudding rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set completely and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Corn Pudding:
- Fresh Corn is Best: If you have access to fresh corn on the cob, using it will elevate the flavor significantly. Simply grill or boil the corn, then cut the kernels off the cob.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough corn pudding. Gentle stirring is key to maintaining a light and fluffy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a knife or toothpick into the center of the pudding; it's done when it comes out clean.
- Customize it: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick, or incorporate some chopped chives or green onions for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Jalapeño Corn Pudding: Add 1-2 finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Chipotle Corn Pudding: Incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Bacon Corn Pudding: Crumble cooked bacon and stir it into the mixture before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Paula Deen-inspired corn pudding recipe is a delicious and easy way to bring a touch of Southern charm to your table. It’s a simple homemade cooking project that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Enjoy this flavorful side dish with your favorite main course and create lasting memories around the dinner table. This recipe is a guaranteed hit at any gathering, making it one of the best recipes for effortless Southern comfort food.