Perfect Creamed Corn Recipe
Introduction
Creamed corn is a comforting and creamy side dish that adds sweetness and richness to any meal. This recipe uses simple ingredients and a quick technique to achieve perfectly smooth and flavorful creamed corn every time.

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon flour (arrowroot powder, cornstarch, or other flour)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons finely diced shallot
- 5 cups (about two 12-ounce bags) frozen sweet corn (thawed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Whisk the flour and milk together in a small bowl until smooth, then set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced shallot and sauté for about one minute until softened.
- Step 3: Add the thawed corn, heavy cream, and dried thyme to the skillet. Stir and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the corn has plumped up.
- Step 4: Pour in the flour and milk mixture, stirring continuously. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 5: Transfer 1 to 2 cups of the creamed corn to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. You can also use a stick blender to blend some of the corn directly in the skillet.
- Step 6: Stir the blended corn back into the skillet. For extra creaminess, mix in ¼ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired.
- Step 7: Season with a pinch of cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh corn when in season for the sweetest flavor and texture.
- Substitute dried thyme with fresh thyme leaves for a brighter herb flavor.
- Add a splash of cooked bacon or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Storage
Store leftover creamed corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh corn works wonderfully in this recipe. Simply cut the kernels off about 4 to 5 ears of corn to yield the equivalent of the frozen amount and proceed as directed.
How do I make the creamed corn thicker?
If you prefer a thicker creamed corn, increase the flour slightly or cook the mixture a few minutes longer to reduce the liquid. Blending more of the corn also helps thicken the texture.
PrintPerfect Creamed Corn Recipe
This Perfect Creamed Corn recipe delivers a rich, velvety side dish that combines sweet corn with creamy milk, butter, and a hint of thyme and cayenne for subtle warmth. Blending part of the corn creates a luscious texture, while sautéed shallots add a delicate savory note. Ideal for pairing with roasted meats or holiday meals, this easy stovetop dish is comforting and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon flour (arrowroot powder, cornstarch, or other flour)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons finely diced shallot
- 5 cups (about two 12-ounce bags) frozen sweet corn (thawed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- pinch of cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Dissolve flour: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and whole milk until smooth and set aside. This mixture will help thicken the creamed corn.
- Sauté shallot: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter. Add the finely diced shallot and sauté for about one minute, until softened but not browned, bringing out a mild sweetness.
- Add corn and cream: Pour in the thawed sweet corn, heavy cream, and dried thyme into the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the corn plumps up and the mixture starts to meld together.
- Incorporate milk mixture: Stir in the milk and flour mixture, cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the corn evenly.
- Blend part of the corn: Remove 1 to 2 cups of the creamed corn mixture and blend it using a blender or food processor until smooth. Alternatively, use a stick blender to partially blend the corn directly in the skillet until desired creaminess is achieved.
- Combine and optionally add cheese: Return the blended corn to the skillet and stir to combine fully. For extra richness, stir in ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese.
- Season and serve: Season the creamed corn with a pinch of cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well, then serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute flour with arrowroot powder or cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
- Using frozen corn is convenient, but fresh corn can be used when in season for a sweeter flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne depending on your desired spice level.
- Parmesan cheese adds a nice depth of flavor but can be omitted for a dairy-only creaminess.
- To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the butter and parmesan used fit your dietary preferences.
Keywords: creamed corn, side dish, creamy corn recipe, stovetop creamed corn, easy creamed corn, holiday side dish

