Essential Ingredients for Our Best Creamed Corn

Crafting truly irresistible creamed corn begins with selecting the right ingredients. This recipe prioritizes both flavor and convenience, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is key:

• Frozen Sweet Corn (24 oz): We highly recommend frozen sweet corn for its incredible convenience and consistent quality. It’s picked at peak ripeness and flash-frozen, locking in that essential sweet corn flavor without the hassle of shucking or cutting. However, feel free to use fresh corn when it’s in season for an extra burst of vibrant flavor.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): This is crucial for achieving that luxurious, rich, and thick texture that defines great creamed corn. Don’t skimp on the heavy cream; it provides the backbone of our incredibly creamy sauce.
• Milk (1 cup): Whole milk is preferred here as it adds another layer of creaminess and richness without making the sauce overly heavy. If you’re looking to reduce fat slightly, 2% milk can work, but whole milk truly delivers the best results.
• Butter (3 tablespoons): Whether you opt for salted or unsalted butter, this golden ingredient provides a foundational richness and helps create the roux that thickens our sauce. If using salted butter, you may want to adjust the added salt to taste.
• Parmesan Cheese (1/3 cup, freshly grated): Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and adds a sharp, nutty, and savory depth to the creamed corn, complementing the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the dairy. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
• Cream Cheese (2 tablespoons): This is our secret weapon! A touch of cream cheese is what elevates this recipe to another level, providing an unparalleled silky smoothness and a slight tangy richness that makes the sauce incredibly addictive. It truly makes for an extra creamy flavor that sets this recipe apart.
• Salt (1 teaspoon) & Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning. Salt balances the sweetness of the corn and enhances all the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and aromatic finish. Always taste and adjust seasonings as you cook.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Used to create a roux with the butter, this flour is essential for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency, ensuring it beautifully coats every kernel of corn without being watery. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Having these ingredients prepped and ready will make the cooking process incredibly smooth and enjoyable. Remember, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final taste!

How to Make The Best Creamed Corn: Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this irresistible creamed corn is simpler than you might think, and the entire process takes less than 30 minutes! Follow these easy steps to achieve a perfectly creamy and flavorful side dish:

1. Melt the Butter: Begin by adding the butter to a large saucepan or skillet. Place it over medium heat and allow the butter to fully melt, swirling the pan gently to coat the bottom. This creates the flavorful base for our roux.
2. Create the Roux: Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Immediately begin whisking constantly for about one minute. This step cooks the raw flour taste out and creates a smooth roux, which will act as our thickening agent. Ensure there are no lumps.
3. Whisk in Dairy and Seasonings: Gradually pour in the heavy cream and milk, continuing to whisk as you add them to ensure a smooth sauce. Then, add the salt, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and the star ingredient – cream cheese. Continue stirring and whisking for 1-2 minutes until the cream cheese is mostly melted and incorporated into the smooth, creamy sauce. The warmth of the pan will help everything melt together beautifully.
4. Add Corn and Simmer: Finally, add your frozen sweet corn to the saucepan. Stir everything together, making sure the corn is fully coated in the luscious creamy sauce. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for approximately 15 minutes. During this time, the corn will plump up, absorb flavors, and the sauce will thicken to a rich, creamy consistency that perfectly clings to each kernel.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the creamed corn is hot, thick, and creamy, remove it from the heat. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more salt or a pinch of pepper if desired. Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews!

That’s all there is to it! In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a truly magnificent southern comfort food that’s bound to become a new family favorite.

How To Store & Reheat Creamed Corn

One of the great things about this homemade creamed corn is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. To ensure maximum freshness and flavor:

• Storage: Allow any leftover creamed corn to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Proper cooling and sealing prevent bacterial growth and maintain quality.
• Reheating on the Stovetop: For best results, reheat creamed corn gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or heavy cream if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge. Stir occasionally until heated through and creamy again.
• Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re short on time, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the creamed corn in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 30-60 second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until warmed through. Again, a little extra milk or cream can help restore its original consistency.
• Freezing: While technically possible, freezing creamed corn, especially with cream cheese and heavy cream, can sometimes result in a slightly grainy or separated texture upon thawing and reheating. Dairy-based sauces tend to break down when frozen. If you do choose to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop. Be prepared to whisk vigorously and possibly add more cream to bring it back together.

Can This Creamed Corn Be Made In A Crock Pot?

Absolutely! This stovetop creamed corn recipe is so beloved that it inspired a slow cooker version for ultimate convenience, especially when oven and stovetop space are at a premium during holiday cooking. Making creamed corn in a slow cooker frees up your hands and ensures a perfectly warm and creamy side dish whenever you’re ready to serve.

If you’re interested in a hands-off approach, I’ve developed a dedicated recipe for Slow Cooker Creamed Corn. It’s very similar to this stovetop recipe in terms of ingredients and the incredible cheesy, creamy flavor, but it’s specifically adapted to cook slowly in the crock pot. This is a fantastic option for potlucks, large family gatherings, or simply when you want to set it and forget it.

Can I use Fresh Corn for this Creamed Corn Recipe?

While this recipe brilliantly utilizes the convenience of frozen corn, you absolutely can use fresh corn when it’s in season for an even more vibrant and sweet flavor! Using fresh corn can add an extra layer of gourmet appeal, especially during late summer and early fall.

To prepare fresh corn for this recipe, you’ll need to remove the kernels from the cob. A good estimate is that 3-4 medium-sized ears of corn will yield approximately 24 ounces (about 3 cups) of kernels, which is equivalent to the frozen amount specified in this recipe. To remove the kernels, stand the cob upright in a large bowl (to catch the kernels) and carefully slice downwards with a sharp knife, rotating the cob as you go.

When using fresh corn, simply add it to the saucepan at the same step where you would add the frozen corn. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as fresh corn might cook slightly faster or slower depending on its tenderness. The goal is for the kernels to be plump and tender, and the sauce to be thick and creamy. The overall cooking process will remain very similar, delivering that same delicious, comforting result.

Tips for Achieving Perfectly Creamy Dreamed Corn

Even though this recipe is incredibly straightforward, a few expert tips can ensure your homemade creamed corn turns out perfectly every single time, with maximum flavor and irresistible texture:

• Use Quality Dairy: Don’t substitute low-fat milk or half-and-half for heavy cream if you want the ultimate rich and creamy texture. The full-fat dairy is essential for that luxurious mouthfeel.
• Whisk Vigorously for a Smooth Roux: When adding the flour to the melted butter, whisk constantly and quickly to prevent lumps. A smooth roux is key to a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Gradual Addition of Liquids: While our recipe adds liquids all at once after the roux, ensuring the cream cheese melts fully, some prefer to add milk/cream gradually while whisking to further guarantee a silky consistency. Just ensure constant stirring.
• Freshly Grated Cheese Matters: Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can make it melt less smoothly. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt seamlessly into your sauce, enhancing both flavor and texture.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your creamed corn before serving. Depending on whether you use salted or unsalted butter and the natural sweetness of your corn, you might need to add a little more salt or pepper to achieve your preferred flavor balance.
• Don’t Overcook: While the sauce needs to thicken, be careful not to overcook the corn, especially if using fresh. Overcooked corn can become tough or lose its natural sweetness. Cook until the kernels are tender-crisp and the sauce is perfectly thick.
• Consider a Touch of Sweetness: While sweet corn is naturally sweet, some southern recipes add a tiny pinch of sugar (1/2 to 1 teaspoon) to further enhance its flavor, especially if your corn isn’t as sweet.
• Add Fresh Herbs for Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley just before serving can add a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic finish.

By following these simple tips, you’re well on your way to making a creamed corn that will impress everyone at the table!

More Delicious Side Dish Recipes to Complete Your Meal

Looking for more incredible side dishes to round out your holiday spread or weeknight dinner? We’ve got you covered with a variety of comforting and flavorful options that pair wonderfully with this homemade creamed corn:

• Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes): Another cheesy, comforting classic that’s perfect for gatherings.
• Honey Butter Skillet Corn: If you love corn, try this sweet and buttery alternative.
• Ritz Cracker Broccoli Casserole: A savory, crunchy casserole that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Garlic Butter Carrots: Simple, elegant, and full of flavor.
• Creamy Garlic Mushrooms: A rich and savory side for mushroom lovers.
• Buttery Skillet Corn: A quick and simple corn dish focusing on pure corn flavor with butter.
• Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots are a delightful addition.
• Green Bean Casserole: A timeless holiday favorite that always delivers.
• Brussels Sprouts Gratin: A cheesy gratin that transforms Brussels sprouts into a decadent side.

Explore these recipes to create a truly unforgettable meal experience alongside your perfect homemade creamed corn!

Creamed Corn with Cream Cheese Recipe Card

This southern style creamed corn recipe with cream cheese makes the best easy side dish for any meal, especially holidays!

By: Joy Shull

Quick Glance:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yields: 8 servings

Ingredients

• 24 oz frozen sweet corn
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
• 3 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
• Black pepper, to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Melt the butter over medium heat in a large saucepan.
2. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for one minute to form a smooth roux.
3. Add the milk, heavy cream, salt, parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the cream cheese is mostly melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Add the frozen corn to the sauce. Continue to cook, stirring often, for about 15 minutes, or until the corn is plump and heated through, and the sauce is thick and creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Video Instructions

For a visual guide, watch the video below to see how this delicious Creamed Corn with Cream Cheese comes together:

Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated)

(Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.)

• Calories: 276 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0.2g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 426mg
• Potassium: 336mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Vitamin A: 703 IU
• Vitamin C: 6mg
• Calcium: 115mg
• Iron: 1mg

Like this recipe? We’d love to hear from you! Rate and comment below to share your experience with this delicious creamed corn.