Description

This Best Creamed Corn recipe offers a rich and creamy side dish that’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes. Using simple ingredients like corn, cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, this comforting dish features a perfect balance of sweetness and savory herbs. Ideal for serving alongside your favorite mains, it’s a delightful way to enjoy corn with a smooth, cheesy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Corn and Dairy

20 oz frozen corn kernels (or 2 15 oz cans canned corn – drained and rinsed)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/4 cups whole milk
1/2 cup to 1 cup Parmesan cheese (depends how thick and cheesy you want it)

Seasonings and Thickeners

3 tablespoons white sugar (brown sugar can be used for a deeper caramely flavor)
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme (optional)
1/2 teaspoon fresh or dried rosemary (optional)
2 tablespoons cornstarch (or 3 tablespoons all purpose flour)

Instructions

Prepare the Corn: If using frozen corn, thaw it by placing the bag in a deep casserole dish under running warm water, then open and drain any excess water using a colander. If using canned corn, simply drain it.
Heat Butter and Add Ingredients: Place a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the corn kernels, sugar, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and optional herbs (thyme and rosemary). Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 3 minutes.
Make Cornstarch Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk with cornstarch (or flour) until fully combined.
Thicken the Creamed Corn: Add the milk and cornstarch mixture to the skillet. Stir continuously and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and the corn is tender.
Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too thick, gradually add more milk or cream, 1/4 cup at a time. If too thin, mix an additional 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, then add to the pan, stirring and bringing back to a simmer. Remember, the mixture will thicken more as it cools.
Add Cheese: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until fully combined and creamy.

Notes

Using brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Fresh or dried thyme and rosemary are optional but add a lovely herbal aroma that complements the sweetness of the corn.
Adjust the amount of Parmesan cheese based on your preference for thickness and cheesiness.
The mixture thickens more as it cools, so slightly under-thicken if you plan to serve it warm later.
If you prefer a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour as a thickener.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: creamed corn, creamed corn recipe, side dish, creamy corn, Parmesan corns, easy corn recipe, stovetop creamed corn