Homemade Creamed Corn

Elevate Your Side Dish Game with Homemade Creamed Corn

Elevate your side dish game with our delectable Homemade Creamed Corn recipe. Bursting with sweet corn flavor and creamy goodness, this dish is the perfect accompaniment to any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast. Using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, this recipe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates. Join us as we dive into the world of homemade comfort food and discover how to make this classic side dish the star of your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 (16-ounce) frozen bag of corn, drained well (frozen or canned)
• 1 cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (or use salt)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• Fresh cracked black pepper and salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prep the Corn:
   • Start by draining the frozen corn well, ensuring that excess moisture is removed. If using canned corn, drain and rinse it under cold water before proceeding.
2. Cook the Corn:
   • In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the drained corn to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and slightly golden brown.
3. Create the Creamy Base:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the whipping cream, seasoned salt, granulated sugar, and garlic powder (if using) until well combined. Pour the mixture over the cooked corn in the skillet.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the whole milk and all-purpose flour until smooth. Gradually add the milk-flour mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and coats the corn evenly. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
   • Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated into the mixture. Season with fresh cracked black pepper and additional salt to taste, if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Transfer the Homemade Creamed Corn to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve hot alongside your favorite main dishes and enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness of this classic side dish.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Creamier Texture: For an even creamier texture, swap out the whole milk for heavy cream or half-and-half. This will add richness and decadence to the dish, perfect for special occasions or indulgent meals.
• Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness or a dash of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or onion powder for added depth of flavor.
• Cheesy Twist: For an extra cheesy kick, stir in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère cheese until melted and gooey. The melted cheese will elevate the creamed corn to new heights of decadence and flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You can also reduce the amount of sweetener used or omit it altogether if you prefer a savory flavor profile.

Low-Carb Version:

• Follow the keto version instructions above, adjusting the ingredients and portion sizes to fit your low-carb dietary preferences. Serve the low-carb creamed corn alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen or canned? Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels can be used in place of frozen or canned corn for this recipe. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and follow the recipe as directed, adjusting the cooking time as needed until the corn is tender.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Homemade Creamed Corn ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular flour. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as the seasoned salt and Parmesan cheese, are also gluten-free.

4. Can I freeze leftover creamed corn? While creamed corn can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. To freeze leftovers, transfer the cooled creamed corn to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and customizable ingredients, Homemade Creamed Corn is a versatile and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, planning a weeknight dinner, or simply craving a taste of home, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, with keto and low-carb variations available, you can enjoy all the creamy goodness of creamed corn while staying true to your dietary preferences. So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of Homemade Creamed Corn with every spoonful!