Discover the ultimate comfort food with this delightful creamed corn recipe. This creamy, sweet, and savory side dish is incredibly easy to prepare and brings warmth to any meal. You will love how simple ingredients transform into a decadent dish, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Get ready to enjoy a classic.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamed Corn recipe
This easy creamed corn recipe earns a permanent spot in your rotation for many reasons. It’s incredibly satisfying and boasts a luxurious, rich texture that melts in your mouth.
- Rich, Creamy Texture: Indulge in velvety smooth, perfectly seasoned corn kernels.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most items in your pantry already, making this a budget-friendly option.
- Perfect Side Dish: This versatile creamy corn complements almost any main course, from weeknight meals to festive feasts.
- Quick Preparation: It comes together in under 20 minutes, ideal for busy schedules.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone, even picky eaters, will ask for a second helping of this sweet corn side.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your luscious creamed corn recipe. We focus on wholesome components that deliver maximum flavor and creamy texture. The balance of sweet corn with rich dairy makes this dish irresistible.
- 4 cups corn kernels (from 4-5 ears fresh, 16 oz frozen, or 2 (15 oz) cans, drained)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, adjust to corn sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with your corn choice. Fresh corn on the cob, cut from the cob, provides the best flavor and texture. Frozen corn is a great year-round alternative; thaw it completely before using. If using canned corn, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid.
For the dairy, whole milk provides a good balance of creaminess without being too heavy. Half-and-half works well for a richer result, and heavy cream creates an incredibly decadent dish. You can also experiment with a mix of milk and cream. For gluten-free options, simply substitute all-purpose flour with an equal amount of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water before adding. Enhance the flavor with a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of onion powder. Fresh chopped chives or parsley sprinkled on top add a lovely fresh finish.
Equipment
You won’t need many specialized tools for this simple creamed corn recipe. Basic kitchen items are all it takes to whip up this delicious side.
- A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan
- A whisk for smooth sauce preparation
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to create a perfect, velvety smooth creamed corn recipe. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comforting dish comes together. Remember, careful stirring prevents lumps and ensures a beautiful texture.
- Prepare the corn: If using fresh corn, cut the kernels from the cobs. If using frozen, thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess liquid. If using canned corn, drain it well. Set the corn aside.
- Melt butter: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Ensure the butter is fully melted and slightly shimmering.
- Create a roux: Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter. Whisk constantly for about one minute until a smooth paste forms. This paste is called a roux, and it acts as the thickener for your creamy sauce.
- Slowly whisk in dairy: Gradually pour in the whole milk (or heavy cream), whisking continuously as you add it. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
- Thicken the sauce: Continue to cook and whisk the sauce over medium heat. It will gradually thicken as it heats, taking about 3-5 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
- Add corn and seasonings: Stir in the prepared corn kernels, optional granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
- Simmer and heat: Reduce the heat to low and let the creamed corn simmer gently for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the corn heats through.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the creamed corn recipe and adjust the salt, pepper, or sugar as needed. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieve restaurant-quality creamed corn recipe results with these helpful tips. If you encounter any issues, don’t worry; troubleshooting is simple!
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamed Corn
- Quality Corn Matters: Use sweet, high-quality corn for the best flavor. Fresh corn is always preferred when in season.
- Don’t Overcook: Simmer just until heated through. Overcooking can make the corn tough and the sauce too thick.
- Stir Frequently: Especially after adding the dairy, stir often to prevent lumps and ensure even thickening.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or sugar to perfectly balance the flavors.
- Extra Richness: For an incredibly luxurious texture, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of half-and-half at the end.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Too Thick: If your creamy corn becomes too thick, simply whisk in an additional splash of milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Too Thin: Simmer the corn a little longer to allow the sauce to reduce. Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then whisk this slurry into the simmering creamed corn until thickened.
- Lumpy Sauce: Remove the skillet from the heat immediately. Whisk vigorously to break up any lumps. If needed, press the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the corn back in.
- Bland Taste: Enhance the flavor by adding a bit more salt, freshly cracked black pepper, or a tiny pinch of garlic powder or onion powder. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
This versatile creamed corn recipe fits perfectly into many meals. It’s excellent for holiday tables and casual dinners alike.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this warm, comforting side with classic roasted chicken, turkey, or pork loin.
- It pairs wonderfully with crispy fried chicken or a perfectly seared steak.
- Creamed corn is a traditional and cherished addition to Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday meals.
- Bring it to a potluck or family gathering for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
we can served with Air Fryer Corn
Storage & Reheating
Store any cooled leftover creamed corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between each. Add a small splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore its creamy texture if it seems too thick.
Variations
- Cheesy Creamed Corn: Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses just before serving.
- Spicy Creamed Corn: Add 1-2 diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) or a pinch of cayenne pepper during the simmering stage.
- Sweet Creamed Corn: For a sweeter profile, increase the granulated sugar to 3-4 tablespoons, or add a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Herby Creamed Corn: Mix in 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped chives, parsley, or thyme at the very end for a burst of freshness.
- Bacon Creamed Corn: Cook 2-3 slices of bacon until crispy, crumble, and stir into the corn or sprinkle on top before serving.
Nutrition Information
This estimated nutrition information is for one serving of our classic creamed corn recipe. It provides a general idea of the nutritional content.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 30 mg |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Potassium | 300 mg |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Vitamin A | 400 IU |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate based on ingredients and preparation, and may vary.
FAQ
Can I use fresh corn on the cob for this creamed corn recipe?
es, absolutely! Fresh corn cut straight from the cob offers the best flavor and texture for this dish. Just ensure you measure out 4 cups of kernels.
How can I make this creamed corn dairy-free?
You can substitute butter with a plant-based butter alternative and milk with unsweetened full-fat coconut milk or almond milk. Ensure your cornstarch is used for thickening instead of flour.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the creamed corn a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to regain its creamy consistency.
What makes creamed corn creamy?
The combination of a flour-and-butter roux with milk or cream creates the rich, velvety sauce that gives creamed corn its signature creamy texture.
Is creamed corn supposed to be sweet?
Traditionally, yes, creamed corn often has a subtle sweetness that complements the natural sweetness of the corn kernels. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your personal preference.
Conclusion
This homemade creamed corn recipe is a truly comforting and versatile side dish that everyone will adore. With its rich, velvety texture and sweet corn flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion, from simple weeknight dinners to festive holiday spreads. It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners, ensuring delicious results every time. Give this classic a try soon and share your delightful culinary experience!
Classic Homemade Creamed Corn Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a cast iron skillet on high heat, add corn, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove corn from heat, add butter and salt, and stir until combined.
- Transfer corn to a bowl, mix in mayonnaise, lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder.
- Garnish with cotija cheese, the remaining chili powder, and chopped cilantro, then serve immediately.
