Creamed Corn

This homemade Creamed Corn is a delightful dish that embodies the sweet and buttery flavors of summer. It’s creamy, rich, and perfect for any occasion—from casual cookouts to festive holiday meals. You’ll find this side dish is not only easy to prepare but also a surefire crowd-pleaser that highlights the natural sweetness of corn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This creamed corn recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect last-minute addition to your meal.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with chicken, beef, or turkey for a complete dinner, or serve it at gatherings with friends and family.
• Rich Flavor: With the combination of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, each bite is bursting with creamy goodness that elevates any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking this delicious creamed corn, gather your tools. The right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and helps achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of the corn and prevents sticking while achieving that perfect creamy texture.
• Whisk: Essential for combining milk and flour smoothly, ensuring there are no lumps in your sauce.

Ingredients

This homemade creamed corn is rich and sweet, creamy and buttery, and perfect for summer cookouts and BBQs, or as a holiday side dish.

For the Creamed Corn

• 2 (10 oz.) packages frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons sugar, optional
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

How to Make Creamed Corn

Step 1: Melt the Butter

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the thawed corn kernels along with heavy cream. If desired, sprinkle in the sugar for added sweetness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Combine Milk and Flour

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. This mixture will help thicken your creamed corn.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

Add the milk-flour mixture to the skillet with the corn. Stir well to combine. Continue cooking until the sauce comes to a boil and thickens, which should take about 12-15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese for Extra Creaminess

Once thickened, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and cream cheese. Stir until fully melted into the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Dish out your delicious creamed corn while it’s hot. Enjoy it as a fabulous side dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Creamed Corn

Creamed corn is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or preparing a cozy dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken for a tasty combination of flavors.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables to add creaminess to your plate.

In a Casserole

• Mix creamed corn into your favorite casserole for added moisture and sweetness.
• Top with breadcrumbs or cheese for a delightful crunch.

With Toppings

• Add crispy fried onions on top for extra texture and flavor.
• Drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness.

As Part of a Bowl

• Use creamed corn as a base in grain bowls, topped with roasted meats and veggies.
• Combine it with quinoa and fresh herbs for a refreshing lunch option.

How to Perfect Creamed Corn

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your creamed corn, follow these tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh corn instead of frozen for superior taste.
• Control the thickness: Adjust the amount of flour based on how thick you like your creamed corn; less flour will give you a creamier texture.
• Experiment with seasonings: Enhance flavor by adding garlic powder or onion powder along with salt and pepper.
• Incorporate herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten up the dish and add depth to the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Creamed Corn

Creamed corn pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement its creamy goodness.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a smoky flavor that contrasts well with sweet creamed corn.
2. Baked Potatoes: A classic choice; the fluffy texture of baked potatoes makes them an excellent match for rich creamed corn.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances the creaminess of the dish beautifully.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer another layer of comfort and pair nicely with creamed corn at any gathering.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity, creating balance with the rich flavors of creamed corn.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring additional corn flavor while providing a delightful contrast in texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamed corn, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the perfect dish.

• Boldly skip thawing: Always thaw your frozen corn before cooking. If you cook it from frozen, the texture may not be as creamy and smooth.
• Boldly neglect seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish! Adding salt and pepper enhances the flavors of the creamed corn, making it richer and more delicious.
• Boldly overcook the corn: Be mindful of cooking time. Overcooking can lead to mushy corn, so keep an eye on it during simmering.
• Boldly ignore mixing techniques: When combining milk and flour, whisk them together thoroughly. Clumps can form if not well-mixed, affecting the creaminess of your dish.
• Boldly skimp on cream: The cream is crucial for richness. Using too little will result in a less satisfying texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Creamed Corn

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Creamed Corn

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about creamed corn that may help you while preparing this dish.

What is creamed corn?

Creamed corn is a sweet and creamy side dish made from corn kernels cooked with cream and seasonings, creating a rich texture.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh corn can be used for an even sweeter flavor. Just make sure to cook it until tender before adding other ingredients.

How can I customize my creamed corn?

You can add spices like paprika or herbs such as thyme for extra flavor. Additionally, try mixing in jalapeños for a spicy kick!

How do I make vegan creamed corn?

Replace dairy with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for added flavor.

Is creamed corn healthy?

While it’s indulgent, you can make healthier choices by reducing butter or using low-fat dairy options without sacrificing too much flavor.

Final Thoughts

This homemade creamed corn recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that works perfectly as a side dish for any occasion. Its creamy texture makes it versatile enough for summer BBQs or holiday feasts. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or vegetables!