Description
A rich and creamy creamed corn recipe made with fresh or frozen corn, sautéed shallots and garlic, and enriched with heavy cream, milk, and parmesan cheese. This comforting side dish is seasoned with sugar, salt, pepper, and a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick, then finished with chopped parsley for freshness.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 large shallot, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, grated or minced
- 5 cups fresh sweet yellow corn kernels (or frozen, thawed and drained)
Dairy and Thickeners
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded or grated parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Sauté Shallots: In a large nonstick or cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced shallot and sauté until soft, translucent, and fragrant, about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the grated or minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Combine Corn and Cream: Add the corn kernels, heavy cream, granulated sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Make Thickening Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the whole milk and all-purpose flour until smooth and free of lumps.
- Thicken the Creamed Corn: Slowly pour the milk and flour mixture into the corn mixture while stirring constantly. Continue cooking and stirring for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens and is heated through. If it’s not thick enough, cook a bit longer as desired.
- Add Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded parmesan cheese until melted, then adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley and cracked black pepper on top before serving. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh corn for the best texture, but frozen corn works well if thawed and drained properly.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste preference.
- If the creamed corn is too thick, you can thin it with a little extra milk or cream.
- For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly.
- This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted poultry as a creamy side.