If you’re looking for a comforting and classic side dish, then look no further than creamed corn. This dish is a staple at many family gatherings and holiday feasts, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, delicious, and pairs well with a variety of main dishes.
While you can certainly buy canned creamed corn at the store, making it from scratch is simple and yields a much tastier result. All you need are a few basic ingredients like corn, milk, butter, and flour. From there, you can customize the recipe to your liking by adding in herbs, spices, or even bacon. Plus, making your own creamed corn allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that it’s free from any unwanted additives or preservatives.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this creamed corn recipe is sure to be a hit. So, grab a few ears of fresh corn and get ready to whip up a delicious and comforting side dish that everyone will love.
Understanding Creamed Corn
If you’re a fan of sweet corn, you’ve probably heard of creamed corn. Creamed corn is a comfort food that is often served as a side dish. It has a creamy texture that is made by cooking corn kernels in cream or milk until they are tender and the mixture becomes thick and creamy.
Creamed corn is typically made with sweet corn, which is a type of corn that is harvested when it is still immature. Sweet corn is known for its juicy kernels and sweet flavor. When making creamed corn, the corn is usually cut off the cob, but frozen or canned corn can also be used.
Creamed corn is sometimes confused with cream style corn, which is a canned product that is made by pureeing corn kernels and adding cream or milk. Cream style corn is often used as an ingredient in recipes, while creamed corn is usually served as a side dish.
One of the things that makes creamed corn so appealing is its creamy texture. This texture is achieved by cooking the corn kernels in cream or milk until they become tender and the mixture thickens. To make creamed corn, you’ll need to use a thickener like flour or cornstarch to help the mixture thicken and become creamy.
Overall, creamed corn is a delicious and comforting side dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or a Thanksgiving dinner, creamed corn is sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients for Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is a simple and delicious side dish that can be made with just a few ingredients. Here are the basic ingredients you need to make creamed corn:
- Corn: You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. Fresh corn on the cob will give you the best flavor, but frozen or canned corn works well too.
- Milk: Whole milk or heavy cream can be used to give the creamed corn a rich and creamy texture.
- Butter: Salted or unsalted butter can be used to add flavor and richness to the dish.
- Flour: All-purpose flour can be used to thicken the cream sauce.
- Salt and pepper: These seasonings are essential for flavoring the creamed corn.
To make creamed corn, you will need to start by cooking the corn. If you are using fresh corn on the cob, you will need to remove the kernels from the cob. If you are using frozen or canned corn, you can skip this step.
Next, you will need to make a cream sauce by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour until it forms a paste. Gradually add milk or heavy cream to the saucepan, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked corn to the saucepan and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For added flavor, you can also add diced onion, crispy bacon, diced jalapeno, chives, thyme, basil, or grated Parmesan cheese to the creamed corn. These ingredients will give the dish a savory and slightly spicy flavor.
Overall, creamed corn is a simple and versatile side dish that can be made with just a few ingredients. With a little creativity, you can customize the dish to suit your taste preferences and add a delicious touch to any meal.
Preparation Steps
To make a delicious creamed corn recipe, you will need to follow some simple preparation steps. First, gather all the necessary ingredients, including fresh corn on the cob, butter, shallots, half-and-half or heavy cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne or thyme (optional).
Start by shucking the corn and removing the kernels from the cob using a sharp knife. Then, use the back of the knife to scrape down the cob to extract the sweet corn juice. Set aside the kernels and juice.
Next, in a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook until softened, stirring occasionally. Add the corn kernels, corn juice, half-and-half or heavy cream, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is tender and the mixture has thickened. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth, or leave it chunky if you prefer.
Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creamed corn recipe as a side dish or a main course.
Serving Suggestions
Creamed corn is a versatile side dish that can be paired with a variety of main dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:
- Casserole: Use creamed corn as a base for a casserole. Mix in some cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and your favorite cheese. Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.
- Barbecue: Serve creamed corn alongside your favorite barbecue dishes. It pairs particularly well with pulled pork and brisket.
- Corn casserole: If you’re a fan of corn casserole, try adding some creamed corn to the mix. It will add extra creaminess and flavor to the dish.
- Meatloaf: Creamed corn can be used as a topping for meatloaf. Simply spread it on top of the meatloaf before baking. It will caramelize and create a delicious crust.
- Burgers: Use creamed corn as a condiment for burgers. Spread it on top of the patty and add some crispy bacon for extra flavor.
- Steak: Serve creamed corn as a side dish for steak. It will add a sweet and creamy contrast to the savory flavors of the meat.
- Pork tenderloin: Creamed corn pairs particularly well with pork tenderloin. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect pairing for your creamed corn. With its sweet and creamy flavor, it’s sure to be a hit no matter how you serve it.
Storing and Reheating
Once you have made your delicious creamed corn, you may have leftovers that you want to store for later. Proper storage and reheating techniques will ensure that your creamed corn stays fresh and tasty.
Refrigerator
If you have any leftover creamed corn, it is important to store it in the refrigerator. Transfer the creamed corn to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Properly stored creamed corn will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Airtight Container
When storing creamed corn, it is important to use an airtight container to prevent air from getting in and causing it to spoil. Airtight containers can be made of glass or plastic and come in various sizes. Make sure the container you choose is large enough to hold all of your creamed corn.
Leftovers
When reheating leftover creamed corn, it is best to reheat it on the stovetop. Place the creamed corn in a saucepan over low heat and stir occasionally until it is heated through. You can also reheat creamed corn in the microwave, but be sure to use a microwave-safe container and stir the creamed corn every 30 seconds to prevent it from overheating.
Overall, storing and reheating creamed corn is simple and easy. Just be sure to use an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When reheating, use a low heat setting on the stovetop or microwave it in short intervals to prevent it from overheating.
Nutritional Information
Creamed corn is a delicious and creamy side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. While it is a tasty treat, it is important to consider the nutritional information before indulging. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for a typical serving of creamed corn.
- Calories: A single serving of creamed corn contains around 200-250 calories, depending on the recipe and serving size.
- Total Fat: Creamed corn is a relatively low-fat dish, with most recipes containing less than 5 grams of total fat per serving.
- Saturated Fat: The saturated fat content of creamed corn is also low, with most recipes containing less than 1 gram of saturated fat per serving.
- Cholesterol: Creamed corn is a cholesterol-free dish, making it a good choice for those watching their cholesterol levels.
- Sodium: Some creamed corn recipes can be high in sodium, with some containing up to 500 milligrams per serving. It is important to choose a recipe that is lower in sodium or to enjoy creamed corn in moderation if you are watching your sodium intake.
- Carbohydrates: Creamed corn is a relatively high-carbohydrate dish, with most recipes containing around 30-40 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
- Dietary Fiber: While creamed corn is not a significant source of dietary fiber, some recipes may contain small amounts.
- Protein: Creamed corn is not a significant source of protein, with most recipes containing less than 5 grams per serving.
Overall, creamed corn can be a tasty addition to your meal, but it is important to enjoy it in moderation and to choose a recipe that fits your nutritional needs. Pay attention to the sodium content and choose a recipe that is lower in sodium if you are watching your intake.
Recipe Variations
Creamed corn is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some recipe variations to try:
- Easy Creamed Corn: If you’re short on time, use canned corn instead of fresh corn. Simply drain the liquid and heat it up in a saucepan with butter, flour, and milk. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Texture Variations: If you prefer a chunky texture, leave some of the corn kernels whole. If you prefer a smoother texture, puree some of the corn in a blender before adding it to the saucepan.
- BBQ Side Dish: Creamed corn is a popular side dish for BBQs. To give it a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the saucepan. You can also add chopped bacon or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Summer Corn: During the summer months, fresh corn is abundant and sweet. Use fresh corn instead of canned corn for a more flavorful creamed corn dish.
- Roux Base: To make a roux base, melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour until smooth. Slowly add milk and whisk until the mixture thickens. Add the corn and continue cooking until heated through. This method will give your creamed corn a richer flavor and thicker consistency.
Experiment with these variations and find the one that suits your taste buds. With a few simple tweaks, you can turn a basic creamed corn recipe into a dish that’s uniquely yours.
Additional Tips and Tricks
If you want to take your creamed corn recipe to the next level, here are some additional tips and tricks to keep in mind.
- Taste as you go: Creamed corn is all about flavor, so make sure to taste your dish as you cook it. Adjust the seasoning as needed to get the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- Use a large skillet: When making creamed corn on the stovetop, a large skillet is your best friend. This will allow you to cook the corn evenly and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Prep your ingredients in advance: Creamed corn comes together quickly, so it’s important to have all of your ingredients ready to go before you start cooking. Chop your onions, measure out your cream and milk, and have your seasonings on hand.
- Save the bacon grease: If you’re looking for a way to add extra flavor to your creamed corn, consider cooking your onions in bacon grease. This will infuse the dish with a smoky, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the corn.
- Serve in a bowl: Creamed corn is a comfort food classic, so why not serve it in a cozy bowl? This will make your dish feel extra special and give your guests something to snuggle up with on a chilly evening.
- Yield: This recipe yields about 6 servings, so adjust accordingly if you need to feed a larger or smaller crowd.
- Prep time: The prep time for this recipe is about 10 minutes, so it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a last-minute side dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creamed corn is a delicious and versatile side dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you prefer a classic recipe with just corn, butter, and cream, or a more elaborate version with additional seasonings and ingredients, there are countless ways to make this dish your own.
When making creamed corn, it’s important to start with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Look for sweet, tender corn that is in season and use fresh cream and butter for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different types of corn, such as white or yellow, to see which you prefer.
One of the great things about creamed corn is that it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. If you like a bit of heat, try adding some chopped jalapeno or red pepper flakes. For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half. And if you’re looking to add some extra texture, consider stirring in some crispy bacon or sautéed onions.
Overall, creamed corn is a classic side dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or simply enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try and see how you can make it your own?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ingredients in traditional creamed corn?
The ingredients in traditional creamed corn typically include corn kernels, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Some recipes may also include flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
How do you make creamed corn with milk?
To make creamed corn with milk, you can substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. Simply heat the milk in a saucepan and add the corn kernels, butter, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
What is the best way to thicken creamed corn?
The best way to thicken creamed corn is to use a roux made with flour and butter. Simply melt the butter in a saucepan, add the flour, and whisk until smooth. Gradually add the cream and corn kernels, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
What can you add to canned corn to make it taste better?
To make canned corn taste better, you can add ingredients such as butter, garlic, herbs, spices, or cheese. You can also mix in other vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, to add more flavor and texture.
How do you make Southern-style creamed corn?
To make Southern-style creamed corn, you can use fresh or frozen corn kernels and cook them in a mixture of butter, cream, and sugar until they become creamy and thick. Some recipes also include bacon or cheese for added flavor.
Can you freeze creamed corn?
Yes, you can freeze creamed corn for up to 3 months. Simply let the mixture cool to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze. To reheat, thaw the creamed corn in the refrigerator overnight and then heat it on the stove or in the microwave.
