Name: Shrimp and Creamed Corn: A Creamy Summer Delight in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Raw Shrimp (Large shrimp are recommended.); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Can substitute with cayenne for extra heat.); 1 teaspoon Salt (To taste.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For cooking shrimp.); 2 tablespoons Salted Butter (For sautéing.); 1 medium Chopped Onion (Provides aromatic sweetness.); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (For depth of flavor.); 2 cups Cooked Corn Kernels (Fresh or frozen.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (For smoky depth.); 1 cup Half-and-Half (Creates creamy consistency.); 4 ounces Feta Cheese (Crumble for better texture.); 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (Chopped for garnish.)

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As I stood in the kitchen, the enticing aroma of sautéed garlic and sweet corn danced around me, instantly whisking me off to sunny summer days. This 30-Minute Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish captures that vibrant essence with its delightful blend of succulent shrimp and creamy corn, all brought together in one pan for easy cleanup. Not only is this recipe a quick lifesaver for busy weeknights, but it also packs a protein punch while celebrating the freshness of seasonal produce. With a spicy, creamy feta sauce that will turn any meal into a special occasion, you’re in for a treat that’s both comforting and refreshingly zesty. Curious about how to whip this up and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive in!

Why is this dish a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: This one-pan meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion: The delightful combination of spicy feta and freshly cooked corn creates a creamy sauce that is bursting with flavor, reminiscent of summer barbecues.

Protein-Packed: With succulent shrimp as the star, you’ll enjoy a dish that’s not only delicious but also offers a healthy serving of high protein.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to switch up the proteins or add extra veggies, making it easy to customize for your palate. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of warm tortillas or your favorite rice dishes, just like a classic Ground Beef Potato recipe would.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and colorful presentation, leaving them asking for seconds!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Ingredients

• Make your summer dish shine!

For the Shrimp
• Raw Shrimp – The star of the dish, providing a hearty protein boost.
• Chili Powder – Adds a touch of spice and warmth; substitute with cayenne for extra heat.
• Salt – Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• Olive Oil – Essential for cooking shrimp and bringing out their natural flavor.

For the Creamed Corn
• Salted Butter – Infuses richness into the creamed corn mix.
• Chopped Onion – Provides aromatic sweetness that elevates the dish when sautéed.
• Minced Garlic – Introduces depth of flavor and aroma.
• Cooked Corn Kernels – Offers a delightful sweetness and texture; fresh is best, but frozen works too!
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky depth to the dish and enhances its visual appeal.
• Half-and-Half – Creates a creamy, luscious consistency that binds the dish together.
• Feta Cheese – Brings creaminess and a tangy punch; crumble a block for better texture.

For Garnishing
• Limes – Adds a burst of acidity and brightness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Fresh Cilantro – A fresh herbal touch that elevates the overall flavor profile.

This Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish is a true testament to how simple ingredients can transform into a comforting yet gourmet experience. Enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the raw shrimp with chili powder and salt, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside to keep warm, leaving any remaining oil in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add salted butter. Allow it to melt, then toss in the chopped onions with a pinch of salt. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Next, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 2 minutes until the garlic is golden and aromatic.

Step 3: Add the Corn
Stir in the cooked corn kernels and smoked paprika to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Mix well to combine all the flavors, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the corn is heated through and slightly caramelized. The cobbled sweetness of the corn will start to stand out, creating a beautiful base for your shrimp and creamed corn dish.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the half-and-half and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously. As it comes together, add the crumbled feta cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. Keep an eye on the heat to ensure it doesn’t boil, aiming for a beautifully blended, creamy sauce that envelops the corn.

Step 5: Combine and Finish
Add freshly squeezed lime juice to the skillet and gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the creamy corn mixture. Heat everything together for about 2 minutes until the shrimp are warmed through. Before serving, top with additional corn, sliced lime, and chopped cilantro for fragrant freshness, bringing that lovely summer vibe to your Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish.

Storage Tips for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp and creamed corn in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of half-and-half if the sauce thickens.

Serving Tip: Enjoy this creamy dish as it was intended—fresh and flavorful!

Expert Tips for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure shrimp have enough space in the skillet for even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing them.
Perfectly Seasoned: Adjust the chili powder based on your spice preference. A little less can make it more family-friendly while still keeping it flavorful.
Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn kernels provide superior sweetness and texture. If using frozen, rinse off any ice before adding to avoid excess water in your dish.
Creamy Consistency: Stir the half-and-half slowly to control the creaminess of your sauce. Don’t allow it to boil to keep that silky texture intact.
Enhance with Lime: Don’t skip adding lime juice at the end. It brightens the flavors and gives your shrimp and creamed corn that refreshing touch.
Garnish Generously: Use fresh cilantro and extra lime to elevate the dish visually and enhance that fresh, summer vibe.

What to Serve with Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful dish with sides that complement its creamy, vibrant flavors.

Warm Tortillas: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, these soft tortillas add a comforting, chewy contrast.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime enhances the zesty freshness of the shrimp, making every bite sing.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky bell peppers and zucchini add texture and a charred flavor that balances the creaminess of the dish beautifully.
Crunchy Salad: A simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette brightens the palate and adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, crumbly cornbread pairs seamlessly with the creamed corn, making for a heartwarming Southern twist.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish, enhancing the shrimp’s delicate flavors and keeping the meal light.
Lime Sorbet: Finish with a refreshing dessert that mirrors the zesty lime notes in the dish, cleansing the palate perfectly.

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Variations

Customize your dish with these exciting twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of feta for a creamy, vegan-friendly version.
Protein Swap: Replace the shrimp with shredded chicken or tofu for a family-favorite twist. Each option maintains the dish’s rich flavor while offering unique textures.
Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini for added crunch and nutrition. The vibrant colors will not only enhance presentation but uplift taste too!
Cheesy Alternatives: Try goat cheese or cream cheese in place of feta for a different yet delightful creaminess that’ll tempt any palate.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy corniness.
Sweet Corn Fiesta: Use roasted corn for an added flavor boost—grilling it beforehand brings out a delightful sweetness reminiscent of summer cookouts.
Rice Base: For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, making each bite incredible while soaking up all that creamy goodness.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or dill instead of cilantro for a refreshing change; both herbs add unique, fragrant profiles to this beloved dish.

If you’re intrigued by more amazing recipes, don’t forget to check out my version of Cucumber Shrimp Salad or the comforting Chicken Spinach Casserole!

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp and Creamed Corn preparations are perfect for making your meal planning a breeze! You can prep the creamed corn sauce, including sautéing the onions and garlic, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop before adding the cooked shrimp. For the best results, don’t prepare the shrimp ahead of time as they lose their delicate texture; instead, cook them just before mixing with the sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy a dish that tastes fresh and delicious with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use raw shrimp that are labeled as “peeled and deveined.” Fresh shrimp is ideal for flavor and texture, but if you’re tight on time, frozen shrimp will work just as well—just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

How do I store leftovers from Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
You can keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce.

Can I freeze Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
Certainly! To freeze this dish, place it in a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. It will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on low heat, adding a splash of half-and-half if the sauce needs smoothing out.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find that your creamy sauce has become too thick, simply add a little bit of additional half-and-half or even chicken broth. Stir continuously over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency. This will help preserve the delicious flavors you’ve created.

Is this dish suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
Great question! Yes, you can modify this recipe for lactose intolerance by substituting half-and-half with a lactose-free option or even a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly, but it should still be a delicious dish overall.

How can I adjust the spiciness of this recipe?
Very easily! If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of chili powder you use. You can start with just a pinch and taste as you go. Conversely, if you want it spicier, add in cayenne pepper or a pinch more chili powder. Don’t hesitate to adjust according to your taste—everyone enjoys their heat level differently!