Name: Creamy Shrimp and Creamed Corn: Quick Summer Comfort Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (opt for large shrimp for an impressive plate); 2 tablespoons salted butter (unsalted works if preferred); 2 tablespoons olive oil (avocado oil can be a great neutral substitute); 0.5 cup chopped onion (yellow or white onions are perfect choices); 5 cloves minced garlic (roasted garlic brings a milder taste); 1.5 cups cooked corn (high-quality frozen corn is a solid alternative); 1 teaspoon chili powder (replace with cayenne pepper for extra spice); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika can be used if necessary); 1 cup half-and-half (heavy cream makes it even richer); 4 oz feta cheese (goat cheese can be a lovely alternative); 0.25 teaspoon salt (sea salt delivers a more robust taste); 2 small limes (lemon juice can stand in if needed); Fresh cilantro (ties the dish together with freshness)

As I stirred the creamy mixture simmering in my skillet, the aroma of garlic and spices wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to sun-soaked summer evenings. This 30-Minute Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish is everything I adore about quick meals—effortless yet packed with delicious flavor. Combining succulent shrimp with sweet corn and a zesty feta sauce, it’s a vibrant one-pan wonder that brings a taste of summer to your dinner table, no matter the season. With its high protein content and gluten-free goodness, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and impressing guests at gatherings. Are you ready to bring a little sunshine to your plate? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Dish a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dazzling dinner that feels gourmet without the long prep time—perfect for busy nights!

Flavor Explosion: A wonderful blend of sweet corn and zesty feta gives a delicious twist, reminiscent of Mexican street corn that will tantalize your taste buds.

Protein-Packed: With 31g of protein per serving, this dish leaves you feeling satisfied without the heaviness of fast food.

Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to swap shrimp for scallops or chicken, or toss in your favorite veggies, making it adaptable for every palate.

One-Pan Wonder: The ease of cooking everything in one pan means less mess and more time enjoying your meal, allowing you to savor your culinary masterpiece!

If you’re looking for another quick and tasty meal, try my Teriyaki Chicken Noodles or indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells.

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Ingredients

For the Shrimp
Shrimp – 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; a fantastic source of protein—opt for large shrimp for an impressive plate.
For the Sauce
Butter – 2 tablespoons salted butter; lends a rich flavor to the dish—unsalted works if preferred.
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons; ideal for cooking the shrimp—avocado oil can be a great neutral substitute.
Onion – ½ cup chopped onion; adds lovely sweetness and texture—yellow or white onions are perfect choices.
Garlic – 5 cloves minced; enhances the aroma of the dish—roasted garlic brings a milder taste.
Corn Kernels – 1.5 cups cooked corn (around 2 ears); fresh corn elevates the sweetness—high-quality frozen corn is a solid alternative.
Chili Powder – 1 teaspoon; infuses warmth into the dish—replace with cayenne pepper for extra spice.
Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon; adds a delightful smoky note—regular paprika can be used if necessary.
For the Creamy Mixture
Half-and-Half – 1 cup; gives the sauce a beautiful creaminess—heavy cream makes it even richer.
Feta Cheese – 4 oz divided; adds a tangy creaminess to the sauce—goat cheese can be a lovely alternative.
For the Finishing Touches
Salt – ¼ teaspoon, to taste; essential for enhancing flavors—sea salt delivers a more robust taste.
Limes – 2 small for juicing; brightens the overall flavor—lemon juice can stand in if needed.
Fresh Cilantro – for garnish; ties the dish together with freshness—feel free to skip if it’s not your thing.

This delightful Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish promises to be a showstopper at any table, bringing sunshine and flavor to your meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Step 1: Cook Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, season the 1.5 lb peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon of chili powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add ½ cup of chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in 5 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic fragrance and become slightly golden.

Step 3: Add Corn
Next, incorporate 1.5 cups of cooked corn kernels and stir in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Mix well for about 2 minutes, ensuring the corn is heated through and well combined with the onion and garlic mixture. The vibrant colors will start to blend beautifully, creating a mouthwatering medley.

Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of half-and-half and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once bubbling, add 4 oz of crumbled feta cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and creates a creamy, luscious sauce. Keep an eye on it as the sauce thickens, ensuring it doesn’t boil too vigorously.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Squeeze the juice of 2 small limes into the creamy sauce, then return the cooked shrimp to the skillet for gentle reheating. Gently fold the shrimp into the sauce, allowing it to soak up the flavors for about 1-2 minutes. Garnish with additional corn, lime slices, and fresh cilantro before serving hot, enjoying this delightful Shrimp and Creamed Corn creation!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the shrimp’s tenderness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp and creamed corn individually. Place in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat in a skillet and add a splash of water or broth to revive the creamy sauce without drying it out.

Enjoy Freshness: This Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish is best enjoyed freshly made, keeping the vibrant flavors and textures at their peak!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful twists that enhance flavors and textures!

Seafood Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops or lobster for a luxurious alternative that adds an elegant touch.
Chicken Replacement: Use bite-sized pieces of chicken breast instead of shrimp for a heartier dish that pairs beautifully with cream.
Veggie Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini to lend a colorful crunch, providing more nutrition and vibrance.
Extra Spicy: Amp up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce, inviting a delightful kick to every bite.
Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or oregano can bring a herbaceous aroma, creating a depth of flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.
Crispy Topping: Sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese on top before broiling for a crunchy texture contrast that’s utterly delectable.
Creamy Alternatives: Swap half-and-half for coconut milk for a dairy-free version that introduces a subtle tropical flavor.

If you want to explore more flavors, consider trying my /Ruths Chris Corn or fancy up your weeknight dinners with some /Creamy Beef and Shells. Customize this Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish according to your taste and let your culinary creativity shine!

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp and Creamed Corn are perfect for those busy nights when you need to save time! You can prep the ingredients—such as chopping the onion and mincing the garlic—up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cooked corn can be prepared a day before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, simply follow the cooking steps, and it’s important to reheat the shrimp gently to maintain their tenderness, mixing everything together for a comforting meal that feels just as fresh and delicious as if it were made that night!

Expert Tips for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid putting too many shrimp in the skillet at once; this ensures they cook evenly and get that nice sear.
Use Fresh Corn: For the sweetest flavor, opt for fresh corn. If it’s not in season, high-quality frozen corn is a great backup!
Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to tweak spice levels according to your taste; adding more chili powder can give your shrimp and creamed corn a delightful kick.
Gentle Reheating: When returning the shrimp to the creamy sauce, reheat gently to prevent overcooking and keep them tender.
Experiment with Cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, try goat cheese for a tangy twist or even a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.

What to Serve with Shrimp and Creamed Corn

This vibrant dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages, elevating your dining experience into something truly special.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture of mashed potatoes creates a comforting canvas, soaking up the luscious sauce from the shrimp and creamed corn.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the dish, making your meal feel lighter and brighter.
Grilled Asparagus: Charred to perfection, asparagus brings a smoky flavor and tender bite that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, moist cornbread is a charming match that reflects the corn in your dish, creating harmony on your plate.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce, adding an irresistible texture contrast to your meal.
Chilled Rosé: A glass of chilled rosé balances the dish’s richness while its fruity notes echo the sweetness of the creamed corn.
Lime Sorbet: For dessert, a light and tangy lime sorbet refreshes the palate after a savory meal, echoing the citrus notes of the lime juice in your dish.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with a hint of cilantro and lime makes for an excellent base, enhancing the overall freshness of your shrimp and creamed corn.

These pairings not only enhance flavors but also contribute delightful textures, making your dining experience truly unforgettable!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using large raw shrimp (15-20 count per pound) as they offer an impressive presentation. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for ease of cooking and eating.

How should I store leftovers of Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, it’s important to do so gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp, which can turn them tough.

Can I freeze Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
Yes, you can! To freeze, divide the dish into portions and place in airtight freezer bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating slowly in a skillet.

How can I adjust the spice level for this dish?
The more the merrier! Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. You can always start with less and gradually add more until it meets your preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Definitely! This Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten. Just ensure that any additional sauces or ingredients you include (like broth or canned corn) are also labeled gluten-free.

What’s the best way to revive the creamy sauce when reheating?
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the creamy sauce in the skillet and stir gently over low heat. This helps to keep the sauce from drying out, restoring its luscious, creamy texture and flavor without compromising the shrimp’s tenderness.