Creamed corn is a warm, comforting dish made from sweet corn, butter, and cream. It’s creamy, smooth, and the perfect side for any meal!
Honestly, who can resist that delightful sweetness? I love making it for family dinners; it’s always a hit! Just mix it up and serve—so easy and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is a true winner for this recipe, bringing a sweet and juicy flavor. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works just as well. It’s easy to store and cook straight from the bag!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. Just skip the flour if you use milk to keep it from getting too thin.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a nice flavor. If you’re dairy-free, opt for a plant-based butter or olive oil for a similar taste.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds a wonderful depth. Crumbled feta or even nutritional yeast can be great substitutes if you’re skipping dairy.
How Can I Make Creamed Corn Creamier?
To get that signature creamy texture, follow these tips! Cooking the corn just right and adding the right amount of liquid are key.
- Start with melting the butter before adding corn. This flavors the corn as it cooks.
- If you’re looking for extra creaminess, mashing a portion of the corn mixture can help—just use a fork or spoon to break some down.
- Let it simmer gently; don’t rush it! The slow cooking helps thicken the sauce naturally.
Keep tasting as you go; adjusting the salt and sugar can bring out the sweetness of the corn that makes this dish so delightful!
How to Make Creamed Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6 ears) or frozen corn, thawed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation and 10 minutes of cooking time, so you can have your creamed corn ready in just about 25 minutes! It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, stand each ear upright on a cutting board and carefully slice downward with a sharp knife to remove the kernels. Make sure to collect the milky juice that comes from the cobs, as it adds extra flavor!
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet or saucepan, place it over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt and become bubbly, spreading its flavor throughout the pan.
3. Cook the Corn:
Add the corn kernels to the melted butter and cook for about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the corn to start softening while soaking up all that buttery goodness.
4. Add Flour:
If you want a thicker consistency, stir in the flour now and cook for another minute. This helps to reduce the raw flour taste and sets the stage for creaminess!
5. Stir in the Cream and Milk:
Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, mixing well. Don’t forget to add the reserved corn juice for that added richness. Stir everything together until nicely combined.
6. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir and taste the mixture, adjusting the seasonings as needed. This is when you can really make it your own!
7. Simmer and Thicken:
Allow the creamed corn to simmer gently for about 8-10 minutes. Keep stirring often until it thickens up and the corn is tender. The aroma will be amazing!
8. Mash for Creaminess:
If you like an even creamier texture, mash some of the corn with a spoon during cooking. This gives you that deliciously thick texture that everyone loves.
9. Add the Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat. If you want, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top, along with a bit more black pepper for added flavor.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Optional, but it’s a great idea! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives, then serve warm as a comforting side dish that everyone will enjoy!
Enjoy your rich, comforting creamed corn — it’s sure to be a hit at every meal!
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer canned corn, just drain and rinse it before adding it to the pan. You won’t need to cook it as long—just heat it through for a few minutes. This will save you even more time!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free butter alternative in place of regular butter, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based version!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to include sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spices like paprika or cayenne for some kick. You can also add bacon or herbs like thyme for extra flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamed corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if it thickens up too much.
