If you’re craving a dish that bursts with comforting creaminess and the fresh, sweet taste of the sea, this Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender shrimp with luscious creamed corn, this Southern-inspired favorite brings together smoky spices, fragrant herbs, and a velvety sauce that effortlessly elevates any weeknight dinner into a special occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe lies in its simplicity and harmony of ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role — from the smoky paprika that adds warmth to the sweetness of fresh corn, and the tangy lemon juice that brightens the rich cream sauce.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Provides a subtle fruity base for sautéing the shrimp and veggies.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The star protein, tender and juicy with all the flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Imparts a gentle smoky sweetness that warms every bite.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a mild kick if you like a touch of heat.
- Corn kernels (2 cups, fresh or frozen): Sweet and juicy, the base for the creamed corn.
- Finely chopped onion (1/2 cup): Gives aromatic depth and a slight natural sweetness.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Lends a fragrant punch that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates the silky, luscious body of the cream sauce.
- Whole milk (1/4 cup): Lightens the cream for balance without sacrificing creaminess.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a nutty, savory finish to the sauce.
- Chopped fresh thyme or basil (1 tablespoon): Bright, herbal notes that refresh the rich dish.
- Lemon juice (juice of 1/2 lemon): A final zing that lifts all the flavors beautifully.
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish: Adds color and a fresh crunch.
How to Make Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp
Start by seasoning the shrimp with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you want some spicy warmth. Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook just about 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook; shrimp should have a snappy bite. Remove them from the skillet and set aside. This step locks in flavor and keeps the shrimp juicy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet you just used. The bits of flavor left behind will infuse this base. Stir and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing their gentle sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.
Step 3: Cook the Corn
Next, toss in the corn kernels. Whether fresh or frozen, cook them stirring occasionally for 3 to 4 minutes. This helps the corn to release its natural sugars and develop a lovely texture that creates the heart of the creamed corn.
Step 4: Add Cream, Milk, and Parmesan
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, followed by the grated Parmesan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes decadently creamy. This step is the secret to that silky texture everyone raves about.
Step 5: Finish with Shrimp, Herbs, and Lemon
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to coat them in the luscious sauce. Sprinkle in the fresh thyme or basil, and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the top. These fresh elements add brightness and herbal complexity that balance the richness wonderfully. Your Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe
Garnishes
Garnish this dish with chopped green onions or parsley to introduce a pop of vibrant color and subtle crunch, enhancing both presentation and flavor in the simplest way. The fresh herbs also add a fragrant aroma that makes the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Serve the Shrimp and Creamed Corn over a bed of fluffy white rice, creamy grits, or alongside some crusty artisanal bread. Each option offers a perfect vessel for soaking up the remaining sauce, turning every last bite into a flavorful experience. For a lighter side, a crisp green salad or sautéed greens like spinach work beautifully to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try plating the shrimp and creamed corn in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and lightly broiled until golden. Alternatively, scoop the mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers or serve it over a toasted English muffin for a Southern brunch vibe with a touch of elegance. The possibilities to impress your guests are endless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Shrimp and Creamed Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce thickens upon chilling; a gentle stir and slight reheating restore its luscious consistency.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, it’s best enjoyed fresh because the cream sauce may separate when thawed. If you do freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and thaw slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating gently to avoid curdling.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to warm everything evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it back to its original creamy texture. Avoid microwaving on high heat as it can cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t steam in the pan.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter version?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce might not be as rich and creamy. Adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or a bit of flour can help maintain the texture.
Is this Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Definitely! Increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to suit your heat preference while keeping the balance of flavors intact.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Parmesan is preferred for its sharp, nutty flavor that complements the shrimp and corn, but you can try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different twist.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — rich, comforting, and packed with flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s straightforward enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to serve guests with pride. I encourage you to dive in and make it your own, savoring every bite of this Southern-inspired delight.
Print
Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Shrimp and Creamed Corn is a rich and flavorful Southern-inspired main course featuring tender shrimp sautéed in olive oil and butter, combined with a creamy, cheesy corn sauce infused with garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. This quick stovetop recipe balances smoky and spicy notes with the sweetness of fresh corn, making it a comforting and elegant meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking Fats and Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Herbs and Finishing
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or basil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season them evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. This adds smoky and mild heat flavors to the seafood.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant, incorporating the flavors left behind by the shrimp.
- Cook the Corn: Stir in the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. This will slightly caramelize the corn and enhance its sweetness and texture.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, whole milk, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy corn sauce, making sure they are fully coated and heated through.
- Finish with Herbs and Lemon: Stir in freshly chopped thyme or basil and squeeze in the juice of half a lemon for brightness. Mix gently to combine all flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the shrimp and creamed corn warm, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh herbal finish. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, grits, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Fresh corn offers the best texture and sweetness, but frozen corn is an excellent year-round alternative.
- Serve over rice, grits, or with crusty bread for a complete meal and to soak up the creamy sauce.
- For added depth of flavor, stir in a splash of white wine before adding the cream to the skillet.
- To make this dish spicier, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently on stovetop to prevent overcooking shrimp.
