Easy Creamed Corn Side Dish

This simple creamed corn recipe is super rich and buttery, making it easy for the corn's natural sweetness to really stand out.

Creamed Corn RecipePhoto byThyme of Season

This dish is perfect as an all-year-round side. It works well for summer BBQs and Thanksgiving dinner, and it's comforting during the cold winter months. Just cook the corn in a creamy, flavorful sauce and add some herbs and spices to taste. It’s super easy to make and absolutely tasty!

You will need the following ingredients:

Butter and Flour – perfect for whipping up a quick roux to thicken up the cream.
Half-and-Half – adds that rich, creamy texture.
Garlic and Onion Powder – just a little extra savory touch.
Cayenne and Paprika– a tiny pinch of both gives it that special flavor without making it spicy!
Corn – We recommend frozen because it’s super easy and picked at its best. If you’re using fresh, about 8 ears should be good.

Measured Ingredients:

• 2 unsalted tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch cayenne pepper
• Pinch of sweet paprika
• 5 cups frozen corn
• Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper
• teaspoon of finely chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Start by melting the butter in a pot over medium-high heat.

2. Add in the flour and let it cook for about a minute, stirring continuously.

3. Whisk in the half-and-half, garlic and onion powder, cayenne, and paprika, making sure there are no lumps.

4. Mix in the corn. After around 10 minutes, it should begin to bubble. When it starts bubbling, lower the heat to let it simmer gently.

5. Let the corn cook for another 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens and the corn is nice and plump.

6. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste and sprinkle with chopped parsley for added color (optional).

Variations

Craving some heat? Add in a bit more cayenne or chop up some jalapeños to the heat you are looking for.

If you like a sweeter flavor, add a teaspoon or so sugar.

You can make it thicker and creamier by swapping out half-and-half for heavy cream. It will thicken quicker, so just be ready to tweak the heat and cooking time a little. Remember, this dish is best when cooked low and slow!