Corn Souffle Paula Deen Copycat – Better Than the Original?

If you’re here for comfort food with a Southern soul, you’re in the right kitchen. Corn souffle Paula Deen style is one of those dishes that’s rich, creamy, and unapologetically indulgent. It’s the kind of side that quietly steals the spotlight at holiday dinners, potlucks, or even a laid-back Sunday meal.

Inspired by the beloved Southern chef herself, Paula Deen’s corn soufflé recipe is all about that buttery flavor, easy prep, and golden-baked top that practically begs you to dig in. But here’s the twist, we’ve taken her classic and added a few subtle upgrades to make it even better. Yep, we said it.

In this copycat version, we’re keeping all the cozy vibes of the original but dialing up the flavor and texture. Whether you’re a long-time Paula Deen fan or just craving a new take on a classic Southern side, this recipe might just become your new go-to.

So let’s roll up our sleeves, preheat that oven, and find out if this corn soufflé copycat can really beat the original.

🧀 What Is Corn Soufflé?

Before we dive into mixing bowls and baking dishes, let’s clear something up, what exactly is corn soufflé, and how is it different from all those other corn-based casseroles?

At its heart, corn soufflé is a Southern comfort classic: a warm, creamy, slightly sweet side dish made with corn (both whole and creamed), eggs, sour cream, and often a touch of corn muffin mix. It’s fluffy yet dense, rich yet balanced, a hybrid between a casserole and a pudding, but with a lighter, more “lifted” texture thanks to the eggs.

Unlike a traditional French soufflé, you won’t need to worry about beating egg whites to stiff peaks or praying it doesn’t collapse. This is Southern-style soufflé, easy, forgiving, and made to please a crowd.

Corn Soufflé vs. Corn Casserole vs. Corn Pudding

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Dish	Texture	Key Ingredients	Best For
Corn Soufflé	Light and fluffy	Corn, eggs, creamed corn, sour cream, Jiffy	Holidays, potlucks, dinners
Corn Casserole	Denser, heartier	Corn, cheese, butter, often bread/crackers	Heavier side dishes
Corn Pudding	Custard-like	Cream, eggs, corn, sugar	Sweeter side or dessert-style

Paula Deen’s version leans toward a rich, buttery soufflé-casserole hybrid, super comforting and easy to make in one bowl.

So whether you’re planning your Thanksgiving spread or just need a cozy dish to round out your weeknight dinner, corn soufflé Paula Deen style is your creamy, crowd-pleasing answer.

🌽 Why Paula Deen’s Version Is So Popular

When it comes to Southern cooking, Paula Deen is practically a household name. Her recipes are known for being big on flavor, rich with butter, and rooted in family-style comfort, and her corn soufflé is no exception.

So what makes corn soufflé Paula Deen style such a standout?

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the secrets behind its popularity is how ridiculously easy it is to make. With pantry staples like canned corn, sour cream, eggs, and a box of Jiffy corn muffin mix, this dish comes together in minutes, no culinary degree required.

2. That Signature Southern Richness

Let’s be honest: Paula Deen doesn’t shy away from butter, and neither does this soufflé. The generous use of butter and creamed corn creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that hits all the right comfort food notes. It’s the kind of dish that gets scraped clean at family dinners and potlucks.

3. Holiday Favorite That Feels Like Home

This recipe has become a go-to side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Sunday dinners across the South. It’s nostalgic, reliable, and easy to double (or triple) for a crowd. Plus, it holds its own next to turkey, ham, and all the fixings.

4. One-Bowl, No-Stress Cooking

No whisking egg whites. No worrying about collapse. Unlike traditional soufflés, Paula’s version is fail-proof and forgiving, which is exactly what busy home cooks need.

💬 Fun Fact: Paula Deen first shared her corn soufflé recipe on her Food Network show “Paula’s Home Cooking,” and it quickly became one of the most searched-for recipes during the holiday season.

Whether you’ve seen it on TV or passed around at church potlucks, there’s a reason this dish has stayed popular: it’s cozy, foolproof, and totally addictive.

👩‍🍳 Copycat Corn Soufflé Paula Deen Recipe (With Upgrades)

Ready to recreate a Southern classic with a modern twist? This copycat corn soufflé Paula Deen recipe stays true to the buttery, creamy comfort of the original, but we’ve added a few smart upgrades to make it fluffier, deeper in flavor, and more balanced.

Let’s get cooking.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy, one-bowl side dish:

Traditional Ingredients (Just Like Paula Deen’s Version):

• 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix

Our Flavor-Boosting Upgrades:

• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar (for richness)
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (adds depth)
• 1 tbsp chopped chives or green onion (freshness)
• Pinch of cayenne (optional heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

🍽️ Equipment Checklist

• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk or wooden spoon
• 8×8-inch or 9-inch round baking dish
• Oven (preheated to 350°F)
• Optional: silicone spatula for scraping every bit!

👣 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Mix all ingredients in one bowl.
Start with the eggs, sour cream, and melted butter. Then stir in both types of corn and the Jiffy mix. Fold in cheddar, paprika, chives, and seasoning.

3. Pour into baking dish and smooth the top.
It should be thick but pourable.

4. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes.
Look for a golden-brown top and slightly puffed edges. Insert a toothpick into the center, if it comes out without any wet batter, your soufflé is ready.

5. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
This helps it firm up and slice cleanly.

💡 Pro Tip: For an extra-cheesy crust, sprinkle a little extra cheddar on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.

This version adds boldness without complexity, and the result is a corn soufflé that’s still easy to make, but with layered flavor and a fluffier, more balanced bite.

🔥 What Makes This Copycat Version Better?

We know, we know, calling a copycat corn soufflé Paula Deen recipe “better than the original” is a bold move. But hear us out. We’ve kept everything that makes Paula’s version loved by the masses, and then gently elevated it to create a soufflé that’s just a little more balanced, flavorful, and memorable.

Here’s what sets this version apart:

💡 1. Better Texture: Light, Fluffy, and Never Greasy

The original is rich, yes, but it can sometimes feel a little heavy. By adjusting the ratio of butter and sour cream slightly, and folding in shredded cheese (instead of loading it on top), we keep the luscious texture while lightening the bite. The result? A soufflé that’s fluffy, not oily, with a beautiful rise.

🧀 2. Bolder Flavor With Minimal Effort

We added just a touch of smoked paprika and sharp cheddar to punch up the flavor without overpowering the corn. The paprika gives it a subtle smoky backbone, while the cheddar adds a salty, tangy richness that balances the sweetness from the corn and Jiffy mix.

And if you’re feeling adventurous? A pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños bring the heat in all the right ways.

🌿 3. Freshness That Pops

Chopped chives or green onions give this soufflé a touch of herby brightness, which cuts through the richness and makes it feel a bit more modern. That simple twist adds both flavor and visual appeal, a tiny upgrade that makes a big difference.

⏱️ 4. Same Easy Prep, More Impressive Results

No extra pans. No complicated steps. This one-bowl recipe stays true to Paula Deen’s stress-free approach, just mix, pour, bake. Yet it delivers restaurant-quality flavor that feels like you put in a lot more effort than you actually did.

🧡 Bottom line? This version of corn soufflé keeps the soul of Paula Deen’s recipe alive, but turns up the dial where it counts.

🕒 Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips

One of the reasons corn soufflé Paula Deen style is such a hit? It’s not just easy to make, it’s make-ahead friendly, holds up beautifully in the fridge, and reheats like a dream. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday dinner or planning leftovers, this dish has your back.

🧊 Can You Make Corn Soufflé Ahead of Time?

Absolutely. This dish is ideal for prepping the day before a big event.

How to prep ahead:

• Option 1: Assemble, don’t bake.
  Mix all the ingredients, pour into your baking dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to bring to room temp, then bake as usual.
• Option 2: Fully bake, then reheat.
  Once baked, allow it to cool fully at room temperature before covering and storing it in the fridge. This is great for smaller gatherings or busy cooking days when oven space is tight.

🧱 Storage Tips

• Place any leftovers in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to four days. The texture holds up surprisingly well!
• Freezer: While soufflé purists might frown, yes, you can freeze it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

🔁 Best Way to Reheat Corn Soufflé

Oven Method (Best Texture):

• Preheat oven to 325°F
• Cover dish with foil
• Heat for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through

Microwave (Quick Fix):

• Reheat individual portions in 30-second bursts
• Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out

🧠 Tip: Add a sprinkle of cheese or pat of butter before reheating to bring back moisture and flavor.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this corn soufflé Paula Deen copycat recipe is famously easy, a few small missteps can turn it from light and creamy to dense and soggy. Luckily, they’re all avoidable, with just a little know-how.

Here are the most common mistakes people make (and how to fix them):

❌ 1. Overmixing the Batter

Why it’s a problem: Overmixing activates too much gluten in the corn muffin mix, which can make the soufflé dense and chewy instead of soft and tender.
Fix it: Stir just until the ingredients are combined, lumps are totally fine!

❌ 2. Using Cold Ingredients

Why it’s a problem: Cold eggs and sour cream can shock the batter and prevent even rising.
Fix it: Let your eggs and sour cream come to room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before mixing.

❌ 3. Baking at Too High a Temperature

Why it’s a problem: A high oven temp can brown the top too quickly while leaving the center undercooked.
Fix it: Stick to a steady 350°F, and bake until a toothpick in the center comes out clean (about 45–50 minutes).

❌ 4. Not Letting It Rest After Baking

Why it’s a problem: Cutting in too soon can cause the soufflé to fall apart and lose that custard-like texture.
Fix it: Let it rest for at least 5–10 minutes to set properly and slice cleanly.

❌ 5. Skipping the Seasoning

Why it’s a problem: Jiffy mix and creamed corn are sweet, without a touch of salt or savory flavor, the dish can feel unbalanced.
Fix it: Taste your batter and adjust with a bit of salt, pepper, or even garlic powder to bring out the best in every bite.

🧂 Bonus Tip: Add a small pinch of baking powder if you want a little extra lift!

🧂 Variations & Add-Ins

The beauty of this corn soufflé Paula Deen copycat recipe is that it’s a blank canvas. Once you’ve mastered the base, you can easily make it your own, whether you’re craving a little heat, more cheese, or a lighter twist.

Here are some delicious, tried-and-true variations to explore:

🌶️ 1. Spicy Kick

Perfect for: Tex-Mex flair or heat lovers

• Add 1–2 tablespoons diced jalapeños (fresh or jarred)
• Sprinkle in 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder
• Top with sliced pepper jack cheese for melty, spicy goodness

🧀 2. Extra Cheesy

Perfect for: Cheese lovers or a richer holiday dish

• Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend
• Add a handful of Parmesan on top for a crisp, salty crust
• Try a smoked gouda or gruyère for next-level flavor

🥬 4. Vegetarian Garden Version

Perfect for: Summer dinners or meatless meals

• Mix in 1/2 cup chopped spinach or sautéed zucchini
• Swap butter for olive oil for a lighter touch
• Top with a few fresh herbs after baking (like basil or parsley)

🌽 5. Gluten-Free Option

Perfect for: Gluten-sensitive or Celiac-friendly versions

• Use a gluten-free corn muffin mix (many exist now!)
• Double-check canned corn and creamed corn labels for hidden gluten

💡 Custom Add-In Tip: Want it heartier? Stir in 1 cup of cooked shredded chicken and turn it into a complete one-dish meal.

FAQs About Corn Soufflé Paula Deen Copycat

🥄 Final Thoughts – Better Than the Original?

There’s no denying it, Paula Deen’s corn soufflé is a beloved classic for a reason. It’s easy, comforting, and shows up on countless Southern tables every holiday season. But after testing, tweaking, and taste-testing again (hey, someone had to do it!), we’re confident this copycat version might just be better.

By adding subtle upgrades, like sharp cheddar, a touch of spice, and fresh herbs, you get all the richness of the original, but with a bit more depth and balance. And best of all? You don’t sacrifice simplicity. It’s still a one-bowl, one-pan wonder that’ll earn you rave reviews.

So whether you’re recreating a nostalgic family favorite or trying this dish for the first time, we hope this version becomes your new go-to.

🍽️ Love Southern Comfort Food? Try These Next!

If you enjoyed this corn soufflé Paula Deen copycat, there’s a good chance you’ll fall in love with a few more Southern classics from our kitchen. Check out these reader favorites to complete your down-home dinner spread:

• 🧀 Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese – Ultra Creamy Southern Style
  A baked classic loaded with cheesy goodness, perfect with any main dish.
• 🍰 Paula Deen Butter Cake – Moist, Rich, and Easy
  The ultimate sweet finish to your Southern meal. Don’t skip the glaze!
• 🍲 Paula Deen Potato Soup – Easy & Creamy
  Cozy up with this rich, velvety soup that’s ideal for chilly nights.
• 🥕 Paula Deen Carrot Cake – Moist with Cream Cheese Frosting
  A spiced classic with irresistible texture and flavor.
• 🍗 Paula Deen Southern Fried Chicken – Crispy & Juicy
  Golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor, Southern comfort on a plate.

👉 Looking for more? Browse all our Paula Deen–inspired recipes to keep the Southern goodness coming!