Shrimp and Creamed Corn: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Shrimp and Creamed Corn: a Southern classic that’s about to become your new weeknight obsession! Imagine plump, juicy shrimp nestled in a velvety blanket of sweet, creamy corn, seasoned to perfection. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, ready in under 30 minutes.

Creamed corn, a dish with roots stretching back to Native American culinary traditions, has long been a staple in Southern cuisine. Over generations, cooks have elevated it from a simple side to a star ingredient. Adding shrimp, a readily available and beloved seafood in the South, transforms it into a complete and satisfying meal.

What makes shrimp and creamed corn so irresistible? It’s the delightful contrast of textures – the tender shrimp against the luscious creaminess of the corn. The sweetness of the corn perfectly complements the savory shrimp, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, its quick preparation makes it a lifesaver on busy evenings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to experience a taste of Southern comfort that will have you coming back for more!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 (15 ounce) can creamed corn
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Hot sauce, to taste (optional)
• Cooked grits or rice, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Shrimp:

First, let’s get our shrimp ready. This is a super quick step, but it’s important for getting that delicious flavor locked in.

1. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the spices. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor. I like to use my hands to really massage the spices into the shrimp.
2. Set the shrimp aside while you prepare the creamed corn. This allows the flavors to meld together a bit.

Making the Creamed Corn:

Now for the star of the show – the creamed corn! This is where the magic happens, and we’ll build a rich and flavorful base for our shrimp.

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to be translucent and fragrant. Don’t rush this step; softened onions are key to a good flavor base.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be heavenly!
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the creamed corn. Make sure to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. This might take a few minutes, so be patient.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. The sauce should be able to coat the back of a spoon.
6. Stir in the canned creamed corn and heat through. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. I sometimes add a pinch of sugar if the corn isn’t sweet enough, but that’s totally optional.

Cooking the Shrimp and Combining:

Almost there! Now we’ll cook the shrimp and bring everything together for a truly unforgettable dish.

1. While the creamed corn is simmering, heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the shrimp instead of searing them. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
2. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. Overcooked shrimp can be rubbery.
3. Once the shrimp are cooked, add them to the skillet with the creamed corn. Stir gently to combine.
4. Simmer for another minute or two to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Now for the best part – serving! Here are a few ideas to make this dish even more special.

1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve over cooked grits or rice. This makes the dish more substantial and helps soak up all that delicious sauce. Creamy grits are my personal favorite!
3. Add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. This is optional, but I love the added heat.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy! This dish is best served hot.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the creamed corn for a spicier dish.
• Add vegetables: Sauté some diced bell peppers or celery along with the onions for added flavor and texture.
• Use fresh corn: If you have fresh corn on hand, you can use it instead of canned creamed corn. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and cook them in the cream sauce until tender. You might need to add a little cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken the sauce if you’re not using canned creamed corn.
• Add bacon: Cook some bacon until crispy and crumble it over the finished dish for a smoky flavor.
• Use different seafood: You can substitute the shrimp with scallops, crabmeat, or even crawfish.
• Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and cream alternatives to make this dish dairy-free.

Storing Leftovers:

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Why This Recipe Works:

This Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. The combination of sweet creamed corn and savory shrimp is simply irresistible. The simple spice blend enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp without overpowering them. The creamy sauce is rich and decadent, but not too heavy. And the best part is, it’s so versatile! You can easily customize it to your liking with different spices, vegetables, or seafood.

Troubleshooting:

• Creamed corn is too thin: If your creamed corn is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few more minutes, or by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
• Creamed corn is too thick: If your creamed corn is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more milk or cream.
• Shrimp are overcooked: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Cook them just until they are pink and opaque.
• Shrimp are undercooked: Make sure the shrimp are cooked through before adding them to the creamed corn. They should be pink and opaque throughout.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Fat: 25-35 grams
• Protein: 25-35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe is truly a must-try, and I’m not just saying that. The sweetness of the corn perfectly complements the savory shrimp, creating a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and surprisingly elegant. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. What more could you ask for?

I know you might be thinking, “Creamed corn? Really?” But trust me on this one. This isn’t your grandma’s bland, canned creamed corn. We’re talking fresh (or high-quality frozen) corn kernels simmered in a luscious, creamy sauce with just the right amount of seasoning to bring out their natural sweetness. Then, we add succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp for a protein boost and a touch of seafood sophistication. The combination is simply divine.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the creamed corn. If you’re feeling adventurous, try grilling the corn on the cob before cutting off the kernels for a smoky flavor. You could also add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture.

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy polenta for a complete and satisfying meal.
* Spoon it into warm tortillas for delicious shrimp and creamed corn tacos.
* Top it with crumbled bacon or crispy fried onions for added crunch and flavor.
* Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
* For a lighter option, serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.

And don’t forget the bread! A crusty baguette or some warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

I truly believe that this Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe will become a new favorite in your household. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly adaptable. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and give it a try! I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. And when you do, please, please, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how you served it. Leave a comment below, tag me in your photos on social media – I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! Happy cooking! I am sure you will enjoy this Shrimp and Creamed Corn.