The ultimate easy side dish – especially perfect for holiday feasts – this delightful Creamed Corn recipe comes together with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. It’s a timeless classic that promises to be a beloved addition to any meal, from festive gatherings to cozy Sunday dinners.

If you’re a fan of rich and creamy corn dishes, you’ll undoubtedly adore this Classic Corn Casserole or this indulgent Creamy Corn and Bacon Casserole. They offer comforting flavors perfect for any occasion.

Homemade Creamed Corn: The Easiest Holiday Side Dish Ever

When it comes to holiday meals, my heart truly belongs to the side dishes. While the main course always holds its own, it’s the array of delectable accompaniments that truly makes a festive spread unforgettable. And among these cherished sides, a perfectly prepared creamed corn stands out as an absolute essential.

This homemade creamed corn recipe isn’t just any side dish; it’s a creamy, dreamy masterpiece that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Imagine a dish so comforting and satisfying, ready in just about 30 minutes, freeing you up to focus on other holiday preparations or simply enjoying time with your loved ones. Whether it’s paired with a magnificent holiday turkey, a succulent baked ham, or a classic roast beef, this easy creamed corn recipe consistently steals the show.

Its effortless preparation makes it an ideal choice for the busiest times of the year, but its versatility extends far beyond special occasions. We often find ourselves whipping up a batch for regular Sunday dinners, proving that a dish this delicious doesn’t need an excuse to be enjoyed. It’s truly a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary and universally loved.

Why This Creamed Corn Recipe is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons why this particular creamed corn recipe has earned its spot as a household favorite. Beyond its undeniable deliciousness, it boasts several qualities that make it a standout:

• Effortlessly Quick: From start to finish, you can have this luscious creamed corn on your table in under 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for last-minute additions to your menu or when you simply crave something comforting without the fuss.
• Simple Ingredients: You won’t need a specialty grocery run for this one. All the ingredients are common pantry staples, ensuring that you can whip this up anytime inspiration strikes.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter. Its rich, sweet, and savory profile appeals to all ages, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday feasts. Prepare for compliments and requests for the recipe!
• Incredibly Versatile: While it shines during the holidays, this creamed corn is equally fantastic alongside weeknight meals. Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, or even serve it as part of a hearty brunch spread.
• Perfect Texture: Achieving the ideal balance of creamy sauce and tender corn kernels is key, and this recipe delivers. It’s thick enough to cling to every kernel but remains wonderfully smooth and velvety.

Essential Ingredients for Creamed Corn

Creating truly exceptional creamed corn starts with understanding the role of each ingredient. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Butter: We recommend using unsalted butter. This gives you complete control over the overall saltiness of your dish. If you only have salted butter on hand, simply reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe and adjust to taste later. Butter forms the base of our roux, contributing richness and a silky texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Flour is the thickening agent that transforms our simple cream and butter into a luxurious, clingy sauce. It creates a classic roux, which ensures a smooth, lump-free consistency. While other thickeners exist, all-purpose flour provides the perfect body for this traditional creamed corn.
• Salt: A crucial flavor enhancer. Fine sea salt is excellent for its consistent texture and pure flavor. If using table salt, which is finer and denser, start with half the recommended amount (e.g., 1/2 teaspoon instead of 1 teaspoon) and always season to your preference once the dish is complete. Taste as you go!
• Heavy Whipping Cream: This is where the “creamed” in creamed corn truly comes alive! Heavy whipping cream provides an unparalleled richness and velvety texture that lighter alternatives simply can’t match. While you *could* use half-and-half or milk, be aware that your sauce will be noticeably thinner and less decadent. Given that creamed corn is often a celebratory dish, embracing the indulgence of heavy cream is highly recommended for the best results.
• Fresh or Frozen Corn: Both fresh and frozen corn work beautifully in this recipe, offering flexibility depending on the season and your pantry. If using fresh corn, ensure it’s sweet and tender. For frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw it beforehand; it can be added directly to the sauce, making this recipe even more convenient. Avoid canned corn, as it often has a softer texture and less vibrant flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: A small amount of sugar works wonders to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn and balance the savory richness of the cream. It doesn’t make the dish overtly sweet but rather brings out the best in the corn’s flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the quantity to your liking, but the suggested amount creates a perfectly balanced taste.

How to Master Creamed Corn: Step-by-Step Guide

Making this luscious creamed corn is simpler than you might think. Follow these clear steps for a perfect outcome every time:

1. Prepare the Roux Base: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan (ensure it’s spacious enough to comfortably hold the cream and corn later), melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and slightly shimmering, add the all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, creating a smooth paste known as a roux. This step cooks out the raw flour taste. Then, whisk in the salt, ensuring it’s well incorporated.
2. Create the Cream Sauce: Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream, whisking constantly as you add it. This slow addition helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth sauce. Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken. It won’t be as thick as frosting, but it should be substantial enough to coat the back of a spoon. Be patient during this step; consistency is key.
3. Incorporate Corn and Sugar: Once your creamy base has reached the desired thickness, add the fresh or frozen corn kernels and the granulated sugar to the saucepan. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. If you’re using frozen corn, the sauce might thicken considerably at this point, but don’t worry—as it continues to cook, it will smooth out again.
4. Simmer and Finish: Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Continue cooking for approximately 10 minutes, or until the corn is completely heated through and the sauce has reached a consistently smooth, creamy texture.
5. Season and Serve: Taste your creamed corn and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is your chance to add more salt if desired, or a generous grind of fresh black pepper, which truly enhances the flavors. Serve your warm, homemade creamed corn immediately and watch it disappear!

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Best Creamed Corn

Elevate your creamed corn game with these helpful tips and customization ideas:

• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: This is perhaps the most important tip! Always taste your creamed corn after cooking. We personally love a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper, and sometimes a touch more salt can make all the difference. Remember, everyone’s palate is different, so season to your liking.
• No Thawing for Frozen Corn: Save yourself time and effort! There’s absolutely no need to thaw frozen corn before adding it to the sauce. It will heat through and soften beautifully during the simmering process, and the slight chill can even help prevent the sauce from over-thickening too quickly.
• Make Ahead Option: This creamed corn is a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for busy holiday preparations. Prepare it completely, then allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If it’s too thick, thin it out with a splash of extra heavy cream, milk, chicken broth, or vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Customize Corn to Cream Ratio: Prefer your creamed corn with more corn and less sauce? Simply add an extra half cup or full cup of corn kernels. Love a saucier dish? Reduce the corn slightly or add a little more cream during the cooking process.
• Adjusting Sauce Thickness: If your sauce becomes too thick during cooking, don’t panic! A little extra cream or broth can quickly thin it out to perfection. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer gently for a few more minutes, stirring, to allow it to reduce and thicken slightly.
• Delicious Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Stir in some cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor, a handful of shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Fresh chives or parsley make a beautiful and flavorful garnish.

Serving Suggestions for Creamed Corn

While often associated with holiday tables, creamed corn is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of main courses. It’s the perfect accompaniment to:

• Holiday Roasts: Classic pairings include roasted turkey, glazed ham, prime rib, or a tender pot roast.
• Weeknight Favorites: Elevate simple meals like grilled chicken, pan-seared pork chops, baked fish, or a juicy steak.
• BBQ Spreads: Its sweetness and creaminess beautifully complement smoked brisket, pulled pork, or ribs.
• Southern Comfort Food: Serve alongside fried chicken, meatloaf, or even as a topping for shepherd’s pie.

Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh chives or a dash of paprika for a pop of color and extra flavor when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamed Corn

Can I use canned corn for this recipe?

While fresh or frozen corn is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, canned corn can be used in a pinch. If using canned corn, drain it thoroughly and rinse well to remove excess sodium. Be aware that canned corn tends to be softer, so adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent it from becoming mushy. It will still be delicious, but the texture might differ slightly.

Can I make this creamed corn dairy-free?

Making this recipe dairy-free is possible with some substitutions. You would need to replace the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and the heavy cream with a full-fat dairy-free cream, such as full-fat coconut milk (be mindful of coconut flavor) or a rich, unsweetened cashew cream. The consistency and flavor profile will be different, but you can still achieve a creamy, flavorful dish.

How should I store leftover creamed corn?

Leftover creamed corn should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen it up as it can thicken considerably when chilled.

Can I freeze creamed corn?

Yes, creamed corn freezes quite well! Allow the creamed corn to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of liquid if needed to restore its creamy texture.

More Favorite Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal

Looking for more delicious accompaniments for your next feast? Explore some of our other cherished side dish recipes:

Sweet & Savory Glazed Carrots
Classic Green Bean Casserole
Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Butter

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Creamed Corn Recipe

Author:
Deborah Harroun

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
20 minutes

Total Time:
30 minutes

Servings:
9 servings

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisine:
American

Print Recipe
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The perfect side dish – especially for holidays – this Creamed Corn only takes a few ingredients and is done in no time at all. This is a simple recipe that everyone loves!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste)
• 1 3/4 cups heavy whipping cream
• 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the roux. Whisk in the salt.
2. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Continue cooking and whisking constantly until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
3. Stir in the corn kernels and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until the corn is thoroughly heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Serve warm.

Recipe Notes:

Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide and is not guaranteed.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Serving:

1 serving

Calories:

238 kcal (12% DV)

Carbohydrates:

13 g (4% DV)

Protein:

3 g (6% DV)

Fat:

20 g (31% DV)

Saturated Fat:

12 g (75% DV)

Polyunsaturated Fat:

1 g

Monounsaturated Fat:

5 g

Trans Fat:

0 g

Cholesterol:

60 mg (20% DV)

Sodium:

271 mg (12% DV)

Potassium:

102 mg (3% DV)

Fiber:

1 g (4% DV)

Sugar:

7 g (8% DV)

Keywords:
corn side dish, creamed corn, holiday side dish, easy creamed corn, homemade creamed corn