If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, creamy, and savory flavors with a touch of spice, the Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This delightful skillet recipe combines tender, juicy shrimp with luscious creamed corn made from scratch, creating a harmony of textures and vibrant flavors. It’s quick to prepare yet impressively satisfying, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Once you try this Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet Recipe, it’s sure to hold a cherished spot in your recipe collection.

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping things simple is key in this recipe, as each ingredient plays a vital role in building depth and richness to this skillet meal. Fresh shrimp bring briny sweetness, while the cream and butter add luxurious texture, and the spices deliver that perfect hint of warmth and excitement.

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for succulent bite-sized pieces packed with flavor.
4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels: Sweet corn provides the signature sweetness and creamy base of the dish.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and a velvety texture that makes the corn irresistibly creamy.
1/4 cup whole milk: Balances the cream to keep the mixture smooth and not overly thick.
2 tbsp unsalted butter: Enhances flavor and helps create a silky sautéed onion and garlic base.
1 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle fruitiness and helps cook the shrimp perfectly.
1/2 onion, finely chopped: Provides savory depth and sweetness when caramelized just right.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings bold aroma and flavor that sings alongside the shrimp.
1/2 tsp paprika: Adds mild smokiness and a beautiful warm color.
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): A gentle kick of heat, customizable based on your spice preference.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to round out all the flavors perfectly.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh herbal brightness and a pop of green color.

How to Make Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, toss in the finely chopped onion and cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. This step is crucial because the softened onion creates a flavorful foundation. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant — you want it to infuse the oil without burning.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

Next, add the corn kernels to the skillet and stir around, allowing them to cook for about 5 minutes. By cooking the corn first, you let its natural sweetness intensify and mingle with the buttery onion and garlic. Keep stirring occasionally so the kernels cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

Step 3: Add Cream and Spices

Pour the heavy cream and milk into the skillet, then sprinkle in paprika, cayenne pepper if you’re using it, and salt and pepper to your liking. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes. This step thickens the cream slightly, turning the corn into a luscious, velvety base that’s just begging to be paired with succulent shrimp.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

While the creamed corn simmers, heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Season them lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika as they cook. Cooking shrimp separately ensures they develop a nice sear and stay tender.

Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Once the shrimp are cooked through, transfer them into the skillet with the creamed corn mixture. Gently stir everything together so the shrimp are evenly coated in that rich, creamy goodness.

Step 6: Let Flavors Meld

Return the shrimp and creamed corn skillet to low heat and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the dish heats through perfectly before it hits the table.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the dish. Not only does it bring a lovely color contrast, but it also adds a fresh bite that complements the creamy and savory flavors in every spoonful of this Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet Recipe.

How to Serve Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a handful of fresh parsley right before serving is a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch that lifts the dish’s richness. You could also sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty brightness that works wonders with seafood.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fluffy white rice, buttery cornbread, or a crisp green salad. Each side offers a different texture and flavor that complements the creamy corn and tender shrimp perfectly without overpowering the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

To make your Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet Recipe stand out at your next dinner, serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic charm. For a modern touch, plate the shrimp and corn over a bed of creamy grits or polenta. You can also stuff the mixture into warm tortillas for a delightful seafood taco twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp and creamed corn will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an easy meal to enjoy later without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

While the creamed corn’s texture changes slightly when frozen, you can freeze this dish in a sealed container for up to one month. When freezing, separate the shrimp from the creamed corn if possible for best results or freeze as is if convenience is a priority.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating can help restore the creamy texture beautifully. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the best consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help them sear nicely and avoid excess water in the skillet.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream is key to achieving that rich, velvety texture in the creamed corn. You could substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the dish won’t be as creamy and indulgent.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! The recipe already includes optional cayenne pepper, but you can also add minced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to amp up the heat according to your taste.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh corn?

Frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe, and canned corn can be used in a pinch (just drain it well). Fresh corn gives the best texture and sweetness, but the frozen alternative is a trustworthy stand-in.

How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp cook quickly, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque with slight firmness. Overcooking makes shrimp tough, so it’s best to watch them closely.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, rich, and simply delicious. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible enough for any home cook to whip up but special enough to impress family and friends. Give it a try soon, and you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved dish in my kitchen.