Shrimp and Creamed Corn

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Shrimp and Creamed Corn is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with the sweetness of fresh creamed corn for a meal that’s rich and comforting. The creamy corn creates a smooth, savory base that perfectly complements the juicy shrimp, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity.

One of my favorite aspects of this dish is its versatility. It’s fantastic when paired with a side of crusty bread, over a bed of rice, or even as a standalone entrée. The fresh, juicy shrimp soak up the creamy, buttery goodness of the corn, creating a wonderfully satisfying bite each time. I recall making it for the first time when craving something comforting and easy but elegant; it quickly became one of my go-to recipes for family dinners. This Shrimp and Creamed Corn is truly a delicious comfort food to enjoy time and again.

Perfect For

This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, weeknight meals, or when you need something easy yet impressive for a dinner party. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or steamed vegetables and can be served as a main course or alongside a side dish for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavorful: The sweet and savory blend of shrimp and creamed corn is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
  • Creamy Texture: The velvety, rich creamed corn sauce complements the shrimp perfectly, creating a dish that’s indulgent and comforting.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
  • Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs by adding herbs, spices, or different vegetables.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories Per Serving: Approximately 300 calories
  • Key Nutrients Per Serving:
    • Protein: 20g
    • Carbohydrates: 30g
    • Fat: 12g
    • Fiber: 3g
    • Sodium: 450mg
    • Vitamin C: 15% DV

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Creamed Corn:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: High in protein and naturally low in fat, shrimp brings a light yet rich flavor to the dish.
  • Corn: Adds sweetness and natural texture, creating a contrast with the creamy sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides the luxurious, creamy base for the corn sauce.
  • Garlic and Onion: These ingredients build a savory foundation for the sauce and enhance the flavor of the shrimp.
  • Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor to the dish for an extra layer of depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter.
  2. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamed Corn:

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the garlic and onion until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the corn to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the corn to heat through.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Season the corn sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle in a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.

Combine and Serve:

  1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat them with the creamed corn sauce.
  2. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve

Serve the Shrimp and Creamed Corn over rice, quinoa, or alongside a side of roasted vegetables. Pair with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

  • Spicy Kick: For some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the sauce.
  • Vegetable Add-ins: You can add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
  • Use Frozen Shrimp: Frozen shrimp is a great option when fresh shrimp is unavailable. Just ensure you thaw it completely before cooking.

Recipe Variations

  • Cheesy Version:
    • Stir in a handful of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, into the cream sauce for a cheesy twist. This will enhance the flavor of the dish with a creamy, melted cheese texture, adding richness and depth. Cheddar gives a sharp and tangy flavor, while parmesan adds a slightly nutty, umami touch. The combination of the creamy sauce with the gooey cheese creates a luxurious, comforting version of the dish that cheese lovers will adore.
  • Low-Carb Version:
    • For a keto-friendly version of this dish, substitute the corn with cauliflower or another low-carb vegetable. Cauliflower mimics the texture of corn, absorbing flavors while keeping the dish light and low in carbs. You can use riced cauliflower or simply cut florets into smaller pieces to match the size of corn kernels. This substitution makes the dish suitable for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets without sacrificing the flavor and satisfaction of the original recipe.
  • Grilled Shrimp:
    • Instead of cooking the shrimp in the skillet, you can grill them for added smokiness and flavor. Grilled shrimp develop a crispy, charred exterior and retain a tender, juicy inside. The smoky grill flavor brings a new layer of depth that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Simply season the shrimp with your favorite spices or marinade before grilling for a more dynamic and flavorful twist on the dish. Grilling adds an outdoor, barbecue-style vibe that can elevate the meal, especially during the warmer months.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage:
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Be sure to cool the dish to room temperature before storing it to prevent excess moisture from developing inside the container. Keeping it properly sealed will help preserve its freshness and prevent the absorption of other odors from the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently to preserve its texture and flavor.
  • Freezing:
    • To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Properly cooling it first will help prevent ice crystals from forming and preserve the dish’s quality. You can also wrap the container with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to add an extra layer of protection before sealing it with a lid. This method will allow the dish to be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight. After it has thawed, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats through evenly and regains its original texture.

Special Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Frying Pan:
    • A large skillet or frying pan is essential for cooking the dish evenly and with plenty of space. A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures that heat is distributed uniformly, preventing any food from sticking or burning. A non-stick skillet is especially helpful if you’re working with delicate ingredients or want to minimize the use of oil. Whether you prefer a cast-iron, stainless steel, or non-stick surface, the size and material of your skillet will play a key role in how well the food cooks.
  • Cooking Spatula:
    • A cooking spatula is useful for stirring, flipping, and serving food during the cooking process. Choose a spatula with a heat-resistant handle to prevent it from warping or burning when used in high-heat environments. If your skillet has a non-stick coating, be sure to use a spatula with a silicone or wooden head to prevent scratching the surface. A spatula can also help when removing food from the skillet, making it easier to serve or transfer to another container.
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups:
    • Measuring spoons and cups are crucial for accurately following the recipe’s ingredient amounts. Using proper measurements ensures consistency and balances flavors correctly. Whether you’re adding spices, liquids, or dry ingredients, measuring spoons and cups help achieve the desired taste and texture for your dish. Measuring cups are essential for liquids, while measuring spoons help with both small and precise ingredient amounts, such as salt, pepper, or herbs.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe. Just thaw it before using or add it directly to the skillet without thawing for a little extra cooking time.

Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of this dish, though the texture of the sauce will be a little less rich.

Q: What can I serve this with?
A: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or asparagus.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Creamed Corn is a savory and comforting dish that pairs the tender, juicy shrimp with the creamy, slightly sweet corn, making every bite rich and satisfying. The combination of seafood and vegetables creates a well-rounded meal that is both indulgent and light. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for a special occasion, Shrimp and Creamed Corn offers a delicious balance of flavors that will please a wide range of tastes.

This dish is incredibly versatile—serve it over rice, grits, or alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. You can adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of milk or cream, making it just right for your preferences. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.

Cook this delightful recipe tonight and fill your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that’s sure to leave everyone eager for the meal. Don’t forget to share your culinary creation on Instagram! Tag me so I can join in your delicious triumph. Enjoy your cooking!

Leave a Comment