Creamed corn is a sweet and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s made with tender corn, milk, and butter, creating a warm and comforting taste.
Honestly, who can resist that creamy goodness? It’s like a hug on a plate! I love serving it with fried chicken or just enjoying it on its own. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is the star here, but if it’s off-season, frozen corn is a great substitute. You can also use canned corn; just drain it well. Fresh corn gives a sweet, vibrant taste, while frozen retains its flavor.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream adds richness, whole milk or even half-and-half can be used for a lighter version. Almond milk or coconut milk are great dairy-free alternatives if you need them.
Butter: Unsalted butter is standard, but olive oil works too for a healthier option. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan butter instead.
Flour: The flour helps thicken the dish. If you’re gluten-free, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds flavor, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a similar umami taste. Feta or goat cheese can also be interesting choices for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Create a Creamy Texture Without Lumps?
To achieve a smooth, creamy texture without lumps, it’s key to follow the roux method properly. Here’s how:
- Start with melting the butter on medium heat.
- Add the flour and stir constantly for just a minute to get rid of the raw flour taste and create a paste.
- Slowly pour in the cream or milk while whisking constantly. This gradual addition helps prevent lumps.
- Keep whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes, making sure it doesn’t stick to the pan.
This method ensures your creamed corn has that velvety texture that’s so comforting!
How to Make Creamed Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4-5 ears of corn)
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamed corn recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll have it ready for the table in no time, making it a wonderful side dish for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, start by shucking the ears and cutting the kernels off the cob with a sharp knife. Place the corn kernels in a bowl and set them aside. If you want to make the dish even tastier, keep the cobs to simmer in the cream later for extra flavor.
2. Make the Roux:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir it constantly for about 1 minute. This will help create a roux that thickens the sauce and prevents lumps.
3. Add the Cream:
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream (or milk), ensuring that you mix it well to avoid any lumps. Keep cooking and stirring for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly and is smooth. This creamy base is the heart of your creamed corn!
4. Stir in the Corn:
Add the corn kernels to the skillet and stir well to combine them with the creamy sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.
5. Season to Taste:
If you reserved the corn cobs, you can simmer them in the cream at the beginning for a richer flavor, just remember to remove them before adding in the kernels! Season your creamed corn with sugar (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preference.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once your creamed corn is perfectly seasoned, remove it from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish it with freshly chopped parsley or chives and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you’d like some extra flavor. Serve it warm and enjoy the creamy goodness!
This recipe will create a sweet, silky creamed corn that’s perfect for your table, bringing warmth and comfort to your meals. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh Corn?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the creamy sauce. No need to cook it separately, as the heat will warm it through perfectly.
How Can I Thicken the Creamed Corn Further?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the corn mixture during the last few minutes of cooking until it reaches your desired thickness.
Can I Make Creamed Corn Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make a vegan version by using plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and vegan butter in place of dairy products. For added flavor, nutritional yeast can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamed Corn?
Store any leftover creamed corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up if needed.
