Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

Shrimp and creamed corn (30 minutes, one-pan) is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer. This meal combines tender shrimp with sweet creamed corn, creating a creamy, flavor-packed sauce inspired by Mexican street corn. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy chili powder and creamy feta cheese gives this dish a unique taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Seasonal Freshness: Utilizing fresh corn and seasonal ingredients makes this dish perfect for summer gatherings or warm evenings on the patio.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this one-pan recipe, allowing you to enjoy your meal and more time with loved ones.
• Versatile Dish: Whether served as a main course or paired with rice or bread, this dish adapts well to various occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools for making shrimp and creamed corn. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in the sauce.
• Knife & Cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently, making prep time minimal.

Ingredients

Shrimp and creamed corn is the perfect summer dish, showcasing fresh seasonal produce and a flavor-packed, spicy, and creamy feta cheese sauce. Inspired by Mexican street corn, this 30-minute, one-pan meal is easy, delicious, and bursting with flavor.

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 the Creamed Corn Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 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 Garnishing

• 2 small limes
• Fresh cilantro

How to Make Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by seasoning the shrimp. In a bowl, mix together the shrimp with chili powder and salt. Set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In your skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil and butter.
2. Once melted, add chopped onion.
3. Sauté until onions are translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in minced garlic; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Corn

Next:
1. Stir in cooked corn kernels.
2. Add smoked paprika; mix well.
3. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to make it creamy:
1. Pour in half-and-half while stirring continuously.
2. Crumble in half of the feta cheese; let it melt into the sauce.
3. Allow simmering for about 5 minutes until thickened slightly.

Step 5: Cook Shrimp

Finally:
1. Add seasoned shrimp into the pan.
2. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
3. Remove from heat; squeeze lime juice over before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful shrimp and creamed corn dish!

How to Serve Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

Serving shrimp and creamed corn is a delightful experience that can elevate your meal. This dish not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on the plate. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this flavorful dish.

With Fresh Lime Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp and creamed corn for an extra burst of flavor. The acidity complements the creaminess beautifully.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the shrimp and creamed corn over fluffy white or brown rice. This adds texture and helps soak up the delicious sauce.

Paired with Tortillas

• Warm tortillas are perfect for scooping up the dish. They add a fun, interactive element to your meal.

Topped with Fresh Cilantro

• Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. It enhances the Mexican-inspired flavors in the dish.

How to Perfect Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

For a flawless shrimp and creamed corn experience, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will enhance the flavor significantly compared to frozen shrimp. Look for large, peeled, and deveined varieties.

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cook until just pink and opaque to maintain tenderness. Overcooking can make them rubbery.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer more heat, increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

• Opt for homemade creamed corn: If possible, make your own creamed corn using fresh kernels for superior taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

Pairing side dishes with shrimp and creamed corn can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent choices that complement this main course nicely.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic side that’s great for dipping into any leftover sauce from the dish.

2. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the main dish.

3. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring color and additional flavors to your plate.

4. Avocado Salad – A simple salad with diced avocado, tomatoes, and lime makes a light, healthy accompaniment.

5. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs nicely with the flavors of shrimp and creamed corn while adding a comforting touch.

6. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing offers crispness that balances out the richness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Shrimp and Creamed Corn, a few common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using frozen shrimp – Fresh shrimp offers better taste and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.
• Skipping the seasoning – Proper seasoning is key to enhancing flavors. Don’t forget the chili powder and smoked paprika for that extra kick.
• Overcooking the shrimp – Cook shrimp just until they are opaque; overcooking makes them rubbery. Aim for about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients – Fresh corn and herbs elevate the dish. Use seasonal produce for the best flavor.
• Not adjusting creaminess – Half-and-half can be adjusted depending on your preference for creaminess. Start with less and add more if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short increments of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan) ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Store leftovers properly for later consumption.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in this recipe?

You can use goat cheese or cream cheese as alternatives. They provide similar creaminess without overpowering the dish.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Shrimp and Creamed Corn?

Adding spices like cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors. Fresh lime juice also adds brightness.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping as it stores well in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp and Creamed Corn is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. This dish is perfect for summer meals or cozy family dinners. Give it a try, and enjoy the burst of flavors!