Creamed corn is a warm and comforting side dish that’s super easy to make. It’s made from sweet corn cooked in creamy goodness, making every bite a little hug for your taste buds!
Honestly, I can’t resist a bowl of this deliciousness! It’s great for dinner, and I love serving it with grilled meats. Plus, it’s a hit at barbecues—who can say no to creamy corn?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is ideal for this recipe as it brings the best sweetness and texture. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn is a convenient alternative that also works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before cooking.
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the creamed corn will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or a nut-based cream can be used.
Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect for controlling the flavor of your dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute it with olive oil or vegan butter.
Sugar: This ingredient balances the natural flavors in corn. You can leave it out if you prefer a less sweet side, or try maple syrup for a different twist!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture?
Getting that creamy texture is all about the right cooking method. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start by cooking the corn in butter; this adds flavor right from the beginning. You want to give it just a few minutes to get tender—don’t overcook it.
- Once the flour is added, cook it briefly to get rid of the raw taste. This helps thicken your dish later.
- Slowly stir in the cream and milk to ensure a smooth mixture. Cooking it gently allows the cream to thicken perfectly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and use a low heat as the mixture thickens. It should take about 8-10 minutes!
With these tips in hand, you’ll create a creamy corn dish that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Creamed Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 6 ears of fresh corn)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or special occasions when you want to impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by shucking the ears and carefully cutting the kernels off the cob with a sharp knife. Set the kernels aside and keep the cobs as they can add flavor if you choose to simmer them later.
2. Cook the Corn:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. When the butter is melted and bubbly, add the corn kernels and cook for 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for the corn to become slightly tender, so stir them occasionally while cooking.
3. Thicken the Mixture:
Sprinkle the flour over the corn and stir well to coat the kernels evenly. Let it cook for about 1 minute; this will help eliminate the raw flour taste and begin to thicken your creamed corn.
4. Add the Cream:
Gradually stir in the heavy cream and milk, mixing thoroughly to combine. Keep stirring to avoid any lumps. If you’re using sugar, add it at this stage along with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust based on your flavor preference!
5. Simmer Until Thickened:
Let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the cream becomes thicker and begins to coat the corn nicely. This is the perfect time to enjoy the smell wafting from the pot!
6. Final Touches:
Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter for an extra richness. This will elevate the flavor and make your creamed corn unbelievably tasty.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the creamed corn to a serving bowl. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives and add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper on top. Serve this warm as a delightful side dish alongside your favorite main courses!
And there you have it! This creamed corn is creamy, slightly sweet, and peppery—a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Canned Corn for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use canned corn as a quick alternative! Just make sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly to reduce excess sodium. Since canned corn is already cooked, simply heat it through with the butter before adding the flour and cream mixture.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamed Corn?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute and use plant-based butter or olive oil in place of the butter. The flavor will be different but still delicious!
What Can I Serve with Creamed Corn?
This creamed corn pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a festive holiday meal. It also complements dishes like barbecue ribs or fried chicken perfectly!
