Description
This creamy and flavorful Creamed Corn recipe combines fresh corn kernels with a rich roux and a touch of spice, resulting in a comforting side dish perfect for any meal. Finished with optional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it’s an easy stovetop recipe that delivers a luscious texture and satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 5 to 6 ears of corn)
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the corn: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it glistens. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the fresh corn kernels and cook, stirring often, until the corn is tender, about 5 minutes.
- Make the roux: Add the salted butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring continuously, until a thick paste forms, roughly 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half along with garlic powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme if using, sugar, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Blend part of the mixture: Carefully transfer 1 cup of the corn mixture to the base of a blender. Let it cool briefly, then blend until smooth. Return the blended mixture back to the skillet with the rest of the corn mixture.
- Simmer the creamed corn: Bring the combined mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the corn becomes plump and creamy.
- Add cheese and serve: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley if desired. Adjust seasoning generously with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a thicker creamed corn, simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.
- Use fresh corn kernels for best flavor; frozen corn can be substituted but may alter texture slightly.
- Optional Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, but can be omitted for a dairy-light version.
- Dried thyme is optional but provides a subtle earthy note that complements the sweetness of the corn.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred heat level or omit for a milder dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or half-and-half to restore creaminess if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
