Name: Shrimp and Creamed Corn: A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb Raw Shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 tsp Chili Powder (adjust based on spice preference); 0.25 tsp Salt (to taste); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for sautéing); 2 tbsp Salted Butter (adds creaminess); 0.5 cup Chopped Onion (provides aromatic base); 5 cloves Minced Garlic (for flavor); 1.5 cups Cooked Corn Kernels (preferably fresh); 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (for flavor); 1 cup Half-and-Half (for creaminess); 4 oz Feta Cheese (crumbled); 2 small Limes (for acidity); Fresh Cilantro (optional for garnish)

As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, I’m often left craving dishes that capture that season’s essence—vibrant, fresh, and delightfully comforting. Enter the star of tonight’s dinner: Shrimp and Creamed Corn. This quick, one-pan delight is not only incredibly easy to whip up in just 30 minutes but also perfectly showcases the sweetness of fresh corn paired with tender shrimp, all kissed by a creamy, zesty feta sauce. It’s a gluten-free meal that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend gathering. Ready to dive into a flavor-packed experience that will transport you to a summer garden? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Dish So Special?

Simplicity, this one-pan wonder comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor-packed, the combination of fresh corn and shrimp creates a delightful burst of sweetness that you won’t forget. Versatile, you can easily customize this recipe; swap feta for goat cheese or add in some vibrant red bell pepper! Crowd-pleaser, it is gluten-free and sure to impress family and friends alike. Plus, if you enjoy this flavor profile, you might also love Louisiana Shrimp Corn or a comforting bowl of Street Corn Chicken.

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Ingredients

• Discover what makes this dish irresistible!

For the Shrimp

Raw Shrimp – 1.5 lb, peeled and deveined; use large shrimp for even cooking.
Chili Powder – 1 tsp; adjust based on your spice preference for the shrimp.
Salt – ¼ tsp, to taste; enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Olive Oil – 2 tbsp; great for sautéing shrimp while adding richness.

For the Creamy Sauce

Salted Butter – 2 tbsp; adds depth and creaminess to the sauce.
Chopped Onion – ½ cup; provides a sweet and aromatic base flavor.
Minced Garlic – 5 cloves; essential for a flavorful kick, adjust to taste.
Cooked Corn Kernels – 1.5 cups, ideally from fresh corn; drives sweetness and texture.
Smoked Paprika – 1 tsp; delivers a nice smokiness to balance the corn.
Half-and-Half – 1 cup; creates a creamy sauce—can be substituted with milk or cream.
Feta Cheese – 4 oz, crumbled; adds a tangy flavor best when crumbled from a block.

For Garnish

Small Limes – 2; provides fresh acidity to balance the richness of the sauce.
Fresh Cilantro – For garnish; optional, but it adds delightful freshness.

Get ready to enjoy this Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish that brings summer flavors right to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by heating a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm for about 1 minute. Once hot, add 1.5 pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp seasoned with 1 teaspoon of chili powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Allow it to melt for about 30 seconds before adding ½ cup of chopped onions and a pinch of salt. Cook the onions for approximately 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become soft and translucent. This will create a lovely aromatic base for the Shrimp and Creamed Corn.

Step 3: Add the Garlic
Next, stir in 5 cloves of minced garlic into the skillet, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn; it should become fragrant and slightly golden. This step enhances the flavor depth of your dish. The savory notes of garlic will meld beautifully with the sweetness of the corn.

Step 4: Combine Corn and Spices
Now, introduce 1.5 cups of cooked corn kernels and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the corn to warm through for about 2-3 minutes. The vibrant yellow corn will start to caramelize slightly, bringing out its natural sweetness and enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of half-and-half into the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Increase the heat to bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble lightly for about 5 minutes. Once heated, add 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese. Stir continuously until the feta has melted and the sauce is creamy and well-mixed, creating a rich base for your Shrimp and Creamed Corn.

Step 6: Reheat the Shrimp & Assemble
Squeeze the juice from half of a lime into the creamy mixture, adding tanginess to balance the richness. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently folding them into the sauce. Allow everything to warm together for another 2-3 minutes. Top with the remaining corn, lime slices, and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Shrimp and Creamed Corn!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own—delicious possibilities await!

Dairy-Free: Swap half-and-half with unsweetened almond milk for a lighter and vegan-friendly version.
Cheese Twist: Substitute feta with crumbled goat cheese for a unique tang and creamy texture.
Color Pop: Add diced red bell pepper for a sweet crunch and vibrant color that brightens up the dish.
Heat Level: For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
Additional Greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale right before serving for an extra boost of nutrition and a pop of color.
Flavor Boost: Mix in a teaspoon of lime zest for an intensified citrus flavor that beautifully complements the shrimp and corn.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh parsley or dill instead of cilantro for a different herby flavor that also freshens up the dish.
Simple Side: Serve over a bed of creamy polenta or enjoy with a side of Street Corn Cucumber for a refreshing contrast to the main dish.

With so many options, you’ll never get bored!

Expert Tips for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the pan as soon as they turn pink to avoid overcooking; they cook quickly and can become rubbery.
Fresh Corn Advantage: Opt for fresh corn for unmatched flavor; frozen or canned may lack the sweet crunch that elevates this shrimp and creamed corn dish.
Cheese Texture: Crumble your feta cheese from a block rather than using pre-crumbled; this helps create a creamier sauce with better texture.
Spice Control: Adjust the chili powder according to your preference; start with less if you’re sensitive to heat and add more for a spicy kick.
One-Pan Efficiency: Keep the pan well-spaced; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, which affects the shrimp’s flavor and texture.
Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the cilantro! It adds a bright, fresh finish that complements the richness of the sauce beautifully.

What to Serve with Shrimp and Creamed Corn

As you savor each creamy, buttery bite of this delightful dish, consider these delicious accompaniments to complete your meal experience.

Fluffy Rice: The perfect vessel for soaking up the creamy sauce, adding a comforting base that balances the dish.
Garlic Bread: Crispy and toasty, this bread not only rounds out the meal but also offers a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy shrimp.
Crisp Salad: A refreshing green salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the creamed corn.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, grilled asparagus provides a subtle earthiness that enhances the dish’s overall freshness.
Corn Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas can be a fun way to scoop up the shrimp and sauce, perfect for a casual, hands-on dining experience.
Lemonade or Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink like lemonade or sparkling water with citrus can cleanse the palate between bites, making each taste shine.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies; the contrast of sweet and creamy will delight every taste bud.

Exploring these pairings can elevate your dinner table and make your Shrimp and Creamed Corn even more memorable!

Make Ahead Options

Lighten your dinner prep with these convenient make ahead options for Shrimp and Creamed Corn! You can prepare the creamy sauce, sautéed onions, and even boil the corn kernels up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store each component in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, just reheat the sauce gently in a skillet before adding the shrimp (which can also be pre-seasoned and stored) for quick assembly. This saves you valuable time during busy weeknights while ensuring that your Shrimp and Creamed Corn is just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of half-and-half if needed to loosen the sauce.

Freezer: To freeze, place the cooled dish in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Always reheat shrimp and creamed corn gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Heat on low until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Portioning: If you plan to freeze, consider portioning out servings before freezing to make it easier to defrost just what you need later.

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe FAQs

How do I select fresh corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for ears of corn with bright green husks and moist silk. The kernels should be plump and milky when you bite into them. Avoid any ears with dark spots or signs of dryness.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
For the best results, store your leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so over low heat on the stove; add a splash of half-and-half to keep the sauce creamy without splattering!

Can I freeze Shrimp and Creamed Corn? How do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove, ensuring your shrimp don’t overcook.

What if my shrimp turns out rubbery or overcooked?
Very! If your shrimp ends up rubbery, it’s likely overcooked. To avoid this, remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. They continue to cook even after being removed from the heat, so timing is essential!

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Certainly! This Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish is gluten-free; just ensure any ingredients you use, like the half-and-half and spices, are gluten-free certified. Also, for allergy concerns, shrimp may not be suitable for those with shellfish allergies. Adjust ingredients like feta if lactose intolerance is a consideration.

Can I make variations with different spices or ingredients?
Of course! The recipe is very versatile. You can replace feta with goat cheese for a different taste, and if you love a bit of heat, adding diced jalapeños or extra smoked paprika can elevate the flavor. Don’t hesitate to mix in additional veggies like bell peppers for color and sweetness!