There’s nothing quite like the creamy, dreamy texture of Parmesan Creamed Corn to turn a simple meal into something extraordinary. As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of corn mingled with the rich scent of melting butter and garlic, I instantly felt at home. This dish is not just a side; it’s a celebration of summer’s freshest flavors, transforming those golden kernels into a comforting, velvety delight that can steal the spotlight at any table.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a way to elevate your weeknight dinner, this creamed corn recipe offers a tantalizing twist. With just a handful of ingredients—think luscious heavy cream, fragrant thyme, and sharp Parmesan cheese—you’ll create a dish that’s as simple as it is sophisticated. Forget fast food; this is the kind of comfort food that warms the heart and fills the belly. Are you ready to bring a little magic to your dinner plate? Let’s dive into the steps to create this irresistible treat!
Why will you love Parmesan Creamed Corn?
Irresistible Flavor: The creamy combination of heavy cream and sharp Parmesan brings a depth that elevates every bite.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this delicious side can be on your table in no time.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy winter dinners, it pairs wonderfully with various main dishes.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Whether it’s a family meal or a festive occasion, this dish is sure to impress guests and loved ones alike.
Unique Twist: Infusing fresh thyme elevates the traditional creamed corn, creating a unique flavor profile you won’t forget.
Parmesan Creamed Corn Ingredients
• Get ready to create a creamy delight!
For the Base
- Unsalted butter – adds a rich, creamy flavor to your creamed corn.
- Shallots – the sweetness of shallots enhances the overall taste profile beautifully.
- Corn kernels – fresh sweet corn is essential for that irresistible burst of flavor.
For the Creaminess
- Heavy cream – gives a luxurious, thick texture that makes this dish truly decadent.
- Whole milk – balances the richness of the cream without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Corn starch – helps thicken the creamed corn to the perfect velvety consistency.
For Seasoning
- Paprika – provides a mild smokiness that complements the sweetness of the corn.
- Fresh thyme leaves – add a fragrant herbal note that elevates the dish.
- Kosher salt – enhances all the flavors and brings the dish to life.
- Freshly cracked black pepper – adds a lovely kick that rounds out the creamy richness.
For the Finish
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – this is where the magic happens, as it melts beautifully and infuses the dish with a savory depth.
How to Make Parmesan Creamed Corn
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Prepare the Corn: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the corn kernels from the cobs and set them aside. Feel the sweetness as you handle the fresh corn; it’s the heart of this dish!
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Sauté the Shallots: In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until hot and foamy. Add the minced shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
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Cook the Corn: Toss the corn kernels into the skillet along with the paprika. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the corn to mingle with the shallots and paprika until perfectly tender.
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Mix the Milk and Cornstarch: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and cornstarch until smooth and creamy, with no lumps in sight. Set this luscious mixture aside; it’s essential for the thickening magic!
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Combine and Simmer: Add heavy cream and fresh thyme to the corn mixture, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Slowly pour in the milk and cornstarch mixture, stirring to combine everything delightfully. Keep the heat low and gently simmer for 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
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Add Cheese and Season: Once your creamed corn reaches the right thickness, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into a creamy bliss. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, and serve warm to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience.
Optional: Top with extra Parmesan for an added cheesy crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Parmesan Creamed Corn?
Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these comforting pairings that bring out the best in that creamy goodness.
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky char of grilled chicken complements the sweet creaminess, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Crisp-tender seasonal veggies add a colorful, healthy contrast to the richness of creamed corn, enhancing your plate visually and taste-wise.
- Savory Garlic Bread: The fragrant aromas of garlic and herbs meld beautifully, providing a crunchy texture to contrast the velvety creamed corn.
- Steak with Red Wine Sauce: A succulent steak will stand up to the creamy corn, and the complexity of the red wine sauce adds layers of savory flavor.
- Simple Green Salad: Bright, fresh greens tossed in a tangy vinaigrette refresh the palate with each bite of creamy delight.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and crumbly cornbread brings a nostalgic warmth, creating a rustic charm that pairs effortlessly with this comforting dish.
- Chardonnay or Riesling: A crisp glass of Chardonnay or a fruity Riesling will enhance the creamy flavors and offer a refreshing finish.
- Apple Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of warm apple pie; the spices and sweetness create a delightful contrast to the creamy side.
Parmesan Creamed Corn Variations
Feel free to get creative with your creamed corn and make it uniquely yours!
- Vegan Swap: Replace heavy cream and milk with coconut milk and use vegan butter, creating a luscious plant-based delight.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a zesty heat that will wake up your palate. Elevate the flavor while maintaining that creamy texture.
- Garlic Lovers: Sauté 2-3 minced garlic cloves with the shallots for an added layer of aromatic flavor that enhances your dish. This simple addition makes the recipe even more comforting!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or rosemary instead of thyme for a personalized flavor adventure. Each herb will bring its own unique essence!
- Sweet Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to balance out the savory elements with a hint of sweetness, perfect for those who love a sweet-savory mix.
- Cheese Medley: Substitute Parmesan with Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile and melted texture, adding a fun, cheesy twist. Each type of cheese transforms the dish beautifully!
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess. This adds both texture and depth!
- Smoked Paprika: Swap regular paprika for smoked paprika to introduce a new dimension of flavor, creating a delightful smokiness that tantalizes the senses. This small change can make a significant impact!
How to Store and Freeze Parmesan Creamed Corn
Fridge: Store any leftover Parmesan Creamed Corn in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamed corn in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency after freezing.
Portioning: Consider portioning the creamed corn into single servings before freezing for quick and easy meals later on!
Make Ahead Options
These Parmesan Creamed Corn is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the corn kernels and sautéed shallots up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the cooked shallots and corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat a skillet over medium heat, add the mixture, and incorporate the heavy cream, milk, and cornstarch blend while stirring. For the best texture, finish the dish by adding the Parmesan cheese right before serving, ensuring it melts into creamy goodness. This way, you’ll have a delightful side dish that tastes just as delicious as if it were made from scratch that day!
Expert Tips for Parmesan Creamed Corn
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Choose Fresh Corn: Opt for fresh corn off the cob for the sweetest flavor. Frozen corn can be an alternative, but nothing beats fresh!
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the corn while it’s sautéing; overcooking can make it tough. Aim for a tender yet juicy bite.
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Thickening Technique: Ensure the milk and corn starch mixture is smooth to prevent lumps in your creamed corn. Lumps can disrupt that perfect texture!
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Taste as You Go: Before serving, taste your Parmesan Creamed Corn; adjust your seasoning with salt and pepper for balance and vibrancy.
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Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for the best results!
Parmesan Creamed Corn Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right corn for creamed corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn is key for that sweet and juicy burst of flavor. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels. The silk should be slightly sticky, and when you peel back the husk, the kernels should be shiny and evenly spaced. Avoid any ears with dark spots or dry silk.
How should I store leftover Parmesan Creamed Corn?
For storing, place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat it gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently until it’s warmed through and creamy once again.
Can I freeze Parmesan Creamed Corn, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze it! To freeze, allow the creamed corn to cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It will keep for up to 3 months. For reheating, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore that lovely creamy texture.
What can I do if my creamed corn turns out too runny?
No worries! If your creamed corn is too runny, you can thicken it easily. Mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering creamed corn and cook it for a few minutes until it thickens. Just remember to keep stirring to avoid lumps!
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
If you’re considering dietary restrictions, it’s important to know that this dish contains dairy and may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. You can try substituting the heavy cream and milk with non-dairy alternatives, like coconut cream and almond milk, though the flavor will change slightly. Always check the cheese for allergens if serving to guests with specific dietary needs.
Irresistible Parmesan Creamed Corn That Elevates Any Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the corn kernels from the cobs and set them aside.
- In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until hot and foamy. Add the minced shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Toss the corn kernels into the skillet along with the paprika. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and cornstarch until smooth, then set aside.
- Add the heavy cream and fresh thyme to the corn mixture, bring to a gentle simmer, and stir in the milk and cornstarch mixture. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.