Description
This creamy creamed corn recipe delivers a nostalgic, velvety texture and sweet corn flavor. It’s a versatile side dish perfect for families, holidays, or any meal, made easy with a foolproof method.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels, defrosted if frozen
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 large shallot, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoon chipotle powder, plus extra for garnish
- 0.75 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 whole lime, zested and juiced
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Char the Corn: Spread defrosted corn on a baking sheet. Broil 5-8 minutes until lightly charred, shaking once. Alternatively, use a large skillet and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat, cooking until charred, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside.
- Saute Aromatics: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add shallot, cook until softened (3-5 minutes), then add garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour over aromatics. Stir constantly for 1 minute to create a pale, nutty-smelling roux.
- Whisk in Liquids: Gradually whisk in 1.5 cups whole milk and 0.5 cup heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally, and cook 3-5 minutes until the sauce visibly thickens. (If the sauce seems too thin, let it cook gently for another 1-2 minutes; if too thick, splash in a tablespoon of milk).
- Combine and Simmer: Stir in charred corn, 0.5 teaspoon chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently 5-7 minutes.
- Finish with Freshness: Remove from heat. Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and 0.25 cup fresh cilantro.
Notes
For dairy-free, use unsweetened oat milk and plant-based butter. Adjust chipotle powder for desired heat. For a lighter version, reduce heavy cream or use half-and-half. If sauce is too thick, whisk in more milk; if too thin, simmer longer. Canned corn can be used in a pinch. Consider smoked paprika for more smoky flavor, or parsley/chives instead of cilantro. Crispy fried onions or toasted pumpkin seeds make a great crunchy topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup (125 g)
- Calories: 190 calories
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 23 mg
Keywords: creamed corn, side dish, easy vegetables, family-friendly, comforting, healthy choice, smoky, bright, quick meals, versatile