There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of creamed corn on a chilly evening. As the smooth, creamy texture engulfs your taste buds, you can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over you, perhaps reminding you of family gatherings or summer barbecues where this classic dish graced the table. I discovered this delightful recipe during a quest to elevate my side dishes, turning frozen sweet corn into a luscious companion for any meal.
Imagine the warmth of melted butter and sautéed shallots beckoning you from the skillet, while a hint of thyme and a pinch of cayenne add layers of flavor that dance on your palate. This creamed corn is not just quick to whip up—taking only 25 minutes—but feels incredibly luxurious, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Plus, with an optional sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan, it transforms into a rich indulgence that’s bound to impress family and friends. Let’s dive into this recipe and rekindle the joy of homemade cooking!
Why is Creamed Corn a Must-Try?
Comforting, this creamed corn brings warmth and nostalgia to your table, reminiscent of childhood gatherings. Quick to prepare, it takes just 25 minutes, making it an easy side dish for any meal. Versatile, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can even stand alone as a fulfilling vegetarian option. Flavorful, the balance of sweet corn, creamy richness, and a hint of spice creates a delightful experience. Crowd-pleasing, it’s guaranteed to impress at family dinners—especially with that optional parmesan! Don’t miss out on elevating your meal with this delicious recipe!
Creamed Corn Ingredients
• Whip up this delicious creamed corn with simple ingredients that bring out the best flavors!
For the Corn Mixture
- 1 tablespoon flour – Helps to thicken the sauce, ensuring a creamy texture.
- 1 cup whole milk – Adds richness and creaminess to balance the sweetness of the corn.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Infuses a lovely buttery flavor when sautéing the shallots.
- 2 tablespoons finely diced shallot – Provides a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- 5 cups frozen sweet corn, thawed – The star of the dish, bringing sweetness and texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Elevates the creaminess level for that indulgent finish.
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the sweetness.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper – Introduces a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the corn’s sweetness.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Optional Topping
- ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan – Melts beautifully and adds a savory kick, elevating the creamed corn experience.
How to Make Creamed Corn
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Whisk Together the flour and milk in a small bowl until smooth. This mixture will help thicken your creamed corn, so be sure there are no lumps. Set it aside to use later.
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Melt the Butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly and fragrant, add the finely diced shallot. Sauté for about one minute until softened and slightly translucent.
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Stir in the Corn along with the heavy cream and dried thyme. Cook this delightful mixture for about 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the corn to plump up and be coated in the creamy goodness.
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Add the Milk Mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously for another 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the corn beautifully.
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Blend 1 to 2 cups of the creamed corn in a blender until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, use a stick blender just a few times. Return the blended corn to the skillet and stir well. If you like, incorporate the freshly grated parmesan now for extra richness.
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Season the creamed corn with cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a final stir, then serve warm for maximum comfort!
Optional: Drizzle with additional cream for a luxurious finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Creamed Corn Variations
Ready to make this delicious dish even more your own? Let’s explore some exciting twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk for a luscious, dairy-free version. It adds a subtle sweetness and a lovely tropical vibe.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to infuse a new layer of heat and excitement into your creamed corn. This spicy variation wakes up the dish and makes it truly memorable.
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Herb Infusion: Swap dried thyme for fresh basil or cilantro for a fresh herbal touch that transforms the flavor profile. This adds brightness and depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy corn.
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Cheesy Goodness: Besides Parmesan, try stirring in crumbled feta or smoked gouda for an unforgettable cheese twist that enriches the overall experience. The smoke adds sophistication, while feta provides a delightful saltiness.
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Sweet Surprise: Mix in some sautéed bell peppers or even diced sweet potatoes to add texture and sweetness, giving your creamed corn a heartier feel. These additions make the dish vibrant and super satisfying.
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Nutty Texture: Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts sprinkled on top before serving enhance the dish’s crunch factor and nuttiness. This is a delightful surprise that gives the creamed corn added character.
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Gourmet Touch: Drizzle truffle oil over the top just before serving for a luxurious flavor enhancement. A little goes a long way and elevates your dish to gourmet status.
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Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and a combination of almond milk and cashew cream instead of dairy. This keeps the creaminess intact while being entirely vegan-friendly, so everyone can enjoy this classic!
Expert Tips for Creamed Corn
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Smooth Consistency: Always whisk the flour and milk thoroughly to avoid lumps. This ensures a velvety creamed corn texture that everyone will love.
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Sautéing Shallots: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Let the shallots soften properly for a deeper flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
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Right Thickness: If your creamed corn is too thin, let it cook a bit longer after adding the milk mixture, stirring until it thickens perfectly.
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Balancing Flavor: Taste before serving! Adjust the cayenne, salt, and pepper to match your preferences, ensuring a well-rounded flavor in your creamed corn.
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Creative Variations: Feel free to add other seasonings or ingredients like bacon bits or fresh herbs for a personalized twist on this classic dish.
How to Store and Freeze Creamed Corn
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Fridge: Store leftover creamed corn in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze creamed corn in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
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Reheating: When reheating from frozen, warm it slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture.
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Customization: Remember to taste and adjust seasoning after thawing, as flavors can mellow during storage, especially if you added cayenne pepper.
What to Serve with Creamed Corn?
Serving up a delightful side can turn a good meal into a memorable experience. Picture steaming bowls filled with warmth and comfort with each dish harmonizing beautifully on your table.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky flavors from the grill provide a lovely contrast to the creamy sweetness of the corn, creating a balanced plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized edges of seasonal veggies add textural variety and a hint of earthiness to complement the smooth creamed corn.
- Cornbread Muffins: Moist and slightly sweet, cornbread makes a perfect pairing, echoing the corn’s flavor while adding a hearty touch.
- Barbecue Ribs: The tangy, rich notes and tender meat from BBQ ribs harmonize with the creamy corn, crafting an unforgettable family feast.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing offer refreshing contrast, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Baked Ham: The savory depth and slightly sweet glaze of baked ham enhance the creaminess of the corn, making for a comforting combo.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of sweetened iced tea balances the richness of the creamed corn with its light, crisp qualities.
- Peach Cobbler: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert—its juicy fruit and crumbly topping contrast beautifully with the creamy dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamed Corn preparations are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy homemade comfort without the hassle! You can prepare the corn mixture (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance—simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain optimal flavor and texture, store the blended portion separately if you choose to blend part of the corn. When you’re ready to serve, heat the mixture gently over medium-low heat, allowing it to warm through. This method ensures your creamed corn remains just as delicious as when freshly made, allowing you to savor a comforting side dish with minimal effort!
Creamed Corn Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best corn for creamed corn?
Absolutely! When choosing corn for your creamed corn, look for sweet, vibrant corn with bright yellow kernels. If using fresh corn, the kernels should be plump and juicy. For frozen corn, which is convenient and often sweeter, check that there are no dark spots or excessive ice crystals, which can indicate freezer burn.
How should I store leftover creamed corn?
Very simply! Store any leftover creamed corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of milk or cream to revive its creamy texture!
Can I freeze creamed corn?
Yes, you can freeze creamed corn for longer storage! Place the cooled creamed corn in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it slowly on the stove, stirring frequently until heated through.
What if my creamed corn turns out too thin?
If your creamed corn is thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! Just let it cook a bit longer on low heat after adding the milk mixture. Stir constantly until it thickens to your desired consistency. If you need instant thickening, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and add it to the mixing pot while stirring continuously.
Is creamed corn safe for pets?
It’s best to keep creamed corn away from pets, especially dogs and cats. While plain corn can be safe in moderation, this recipe contains butter, milk, and seasonings that may cause digestive issues or allergies in pets. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet’s dietary needs!
Can I make creamed corn dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version of creamed corn, substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. You’ll still enjoy that creamy texture without the dairy! Happy cooking!
Creamed Corn Bliss: A Rich and Creamy Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the flour and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced shallot and sauté for about one minute until softened.
- Stir in the corn, heavy cream, and dried thyme. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add the milk mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously for another 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Blend 1 to 2 cups of the creamed corn until smooth, then return to the skillet. Incorporate parmesan if desired.
- Season with cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve warm.