Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and easy side dish to complement your meal? Creamed corn is a classic comfort food that many find irresistible. This 3-ingredient creamed corn recipe will elevate your dinner with its creamy texture and sweet flavor, using only a handful of ingredients you likely already have at home.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of sugar (optional, for enhancing the corn’s natural sweetness)
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, shuck the corn and cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s thawed.
- Cook the Corn: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add the corn and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn is tender but still a bit crisp.
- Add Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, and continue to cook on a low simmer. Stir occasionally. This will help the cream to thicken and blend with the corn.
- Sweeten if Desired: Add the sugar, stirring until it’s dissolved. If you prefer a more natural flavor, you can skip this step as corn is naturally sweet.
- Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes until it achieves your desired creaminess. Be careful not to let it boil as this can cause the cream to separate.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. For a richer flavor, consider adding a small pat of butter.
🍽️ Note: For a smoother consistency, you can blend a portion of the cooked corn before serving.
Variations
- Herb-Infused: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme while cooking for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a hint of heat.
- Cheesy: Stir in some grated Parmesan or Cheddar cheese right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side with barbecued meats or grilled chicken.
- Use as a base for creamy corn chowder.
- Layer it in a casserole with green beans and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs or fried onions.
After mastering this simple yet delectable recipe, you might find yourself turning to it time and again. Whether for a casual family meal or as part of a more formal dinner, this creamed corn can adapt to many culinary settings. Its versatility in flavors and ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for home cooks of all levels. Enjoy the sweetness of corn enveloped in a creamy sauce that’s sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
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Yes, you can use canned corn. However, be sure to drain it well to remove excess liquid. The cream might not thicken as much due to the liquid from the can, but the flavor will still be there.
What are some good vegetarian or vegan substitutes for heavy cream?
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For vegetarians, alternatives like half-and-half or a blend of milk and butter can work well. For vegans, try using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream substitute.
How long can I store leftover creamed corn?
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Store your creamed corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this creamed corn?
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Yes, you can freeze it. However, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It should keep for up to 2 months.
Is there a way to thicken the cream without heavy cream?
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If you want to avoid heavy cream, you can thicken the corn with a roux made from butter and flour, or you could use cornstarch dissolved in milk as a thickener.
