Shrimp and creamed corn (30 minutes, one-pan) is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer. With its vibrant flavors and creamy texture, this meal is perfect for casual weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The combination of tender shrimp and sweet creamed corn creates a satisfying experience that everyone will love. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for those busy days when you still want something delicious on the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for busy evenings.
- One-Pan Wonder: All ingredients are cooked in a single pan, which means less cleanup time after enjoying your meal.
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices and creamy feta sauce brings an incredible depth of flavor that will impress your family and friends.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe with different veggies or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
- Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with shrimp and fresh corn, this dish provides a nutritious balance of protein and fiber.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Using the right equipment makes preparing shrimp and creamed corn even easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing ample room for stirring.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic effortless, ensuring uniform pieces for better flavor distribution.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, large – about 15-20 count per pound)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Creamed Corn
- 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (I used 2 ears of grilled or boiled corn)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 4 oz feta cheese (divided; it’s best to use a block of feta that you crumble yourself)
For Garnish
- 2 small limes
- fresh cilantro
How to Make Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot:
1. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet:
1. Season with chili powder and salt.
2. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamed Corn
In the same skillet, add:
1. The cooked corn kernels and smoked paprika.
2. Pour in the half-and-half while stirring everything together.
3. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now it’s time to bring it all together:
1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
2. Crumble in half of the feta cheese, stirring to combine everything well.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Finally:
1. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro and remaining feta cheese.
3. Serve warm for an enjoyable meal!
This shrimp and creamed corn recipe is sure to be a crowd pleaser at any occasion! Enjoy!
How to Serve Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Serving shrimp and creamed corn is an easy task that can elevate your dining experience. This dish shines on its own, but you can enhance it with a few simple accompaniments.
With Fresh Cilantro
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and color. The herb complements the spices beautifully.
Over Rice
- Serve the shrimp and creamed corn over a bed of fluffy rice. White or brown rice absorbs the creamy sauce, making every bite delightful.
With Tortillas
- Pair with warm tortillas for a delicious handheld option. You can use corn or flour tortillas to scoop up the creamy goodness.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve the mixture on a bed of mixed greens for a fresh take. The crunch of the greens balances the creaminess of the dish.
As a Standalone Dish
- Enjoy it straight from the pan! This dish is hearty enough to be the main course without any sides.
How to Perfect Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
To ensure your shrimp and creamed corn turns out perfect every time, consider these tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and seasonal corn make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality produce whenever possible.
- Properly season: Taste as you go! Adjust seasonings like salt and chili powder to suit your palate, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.
- Cook shrimp just right: Shrimp cooks quickly. Avoid overcooking by removing them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Creamy consistency: For a rich texture, ensure you’re using half-and-half instead of milk. It adds depth without being overly heavy.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Enhance your meal with these delightful side dishes that complement shrimp and creamed corn perfectly.
- Garlic Bread
Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; garlic bread adds crunch and flavor to your meal. - Grilled Vegetables
A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus grilled to perfection brings color and nutrition to your plate. - Simple Green Salad
A light salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes brings freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors. - Quinoa Salad
A protein-packed quinoa salad with herbs can add texture and health benefits alongside your main dish. - Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy counterpoint to the creamy shrimp dish while adding a refreshing element. - Cornbread Muffins
Sweet cornbread muffins pair well with this dish, mimicking street corn flavors while providing an enjoyable side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Shrimp and Creamed Corn, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and corn enhance the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh corn when in season, or use frozen if necessary.
- Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking makes it rubbery. Cook until just pink and opaque for the best texture.
- Skipping Seasoning: Underseasoning can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, spices, and fresh lime juice to elevate the dish’s taste.
- Using Low-Quality Feta: Not all feta is created equal. Choose a block of feta cheese for better texture and flavor than pre-crumbled varieties.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Each step has a specific time limit. Follow the timing closely to ensure all ingredients cook perfectly without becoming mushy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
- Portion into freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil, heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute increments, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat. Stir frequently until heated through to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Shrimp and Creamed Corn to help you out.
What can I serve with Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
You can pair this dish with rice, crusty bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I make Shrimp and Creamed Corn ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it as needed.
How do I customize Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or other spices.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Shrimp and Creamed Corn is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Creamed Corn is a delightful dish that combines creamy textures with vibrant flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it on a summer evening or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress! Give it a try and explore different variations!
Shrimp and Creamed Corn
Shrimp and Creamed Corn is a delightful one-pan dish that perfectly encapsulates summer with its vibrant flavors and creamy texture. This quick and satisfying meal pairs tender shrimp with sweet creamed corn, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 4 oz feta cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, about 3 minutes, then add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add the shrimp, seasoned with chili powder and salt, cooking until pink and opaque (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, combine cooked corn kernels and smoked paprika; pour in half-and-half and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, crumbling in half of the feta cheese, mixing well.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh lime juice, cilantro, and remaining feta cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; seasonal corn is ideal. Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of chili powder. Pair with rice or tortillas for added texture.
