If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, this Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine succulent shrimp seasoned with smoky paprika, nestled into a luxuriously creamy corn base enriched with buttery, cheesy goodness and a hint of lemon brightness. It’s quick to make, easy on ingredients, and perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself to a weeknight dinner that feels special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is all you need to create a dish that’s creamy, savory, and packed with texture and color. Each element plays a vital role, whether it’s the juicy shrimp adding protein, or the fresh corn lending a natural sweetness and bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to perfectly sear the shrimp with a light, fruity finish.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed): The star ingredient bringing tender seafood flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that lifts the entire dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enriches the creamed corn with creamy, luscious texture.
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped): Brings sweetness and aroma when sautéed gently.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a warm, savory backbone to the sauce.
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen): The heart of this recipe—sweet, crunchy, and colorful.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, rich creamed corn base you’ll fall in love with.
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds moisture and flavor complexity to the cream sauce.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the corn for a nutty, savory twist.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brings a bright, zesty kick to balance the richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley: Finishing flourish that adds freshness and color.
How to Make Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your shrimp generously with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Once your pan is hot, add the shrimp and cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn a beautiful pink and become opaque. The quick sear locks in juices, keeping the shrimp tender. Remove them from the pan and set aside—don’t overcook, as they will finish cooking later.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamed Corn Base
With the shrimp out, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the finely chopped onions and garlic, letting them sauté gently for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened but not browned. Next, stir in the corn kernels and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the natural sweetness of the corn to develop as it softens and begins releasing its juices.
Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream along with the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. The cheese elevates the dish with savory richness, while the cream and broth keep the texture silky smooth.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Final Touches
Return the shrimp to the skillet, gently folding them into the creamy corn mixture. Stir in fresh lemon juice, which brightens and balances the richness beautifully. Let everything heat through for another 1 to 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then sprinkle with freshly chopped chives or parsley for that fresh herb aroma and a pop of color.
How to Serve Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh chives or parsley is a classic touch that lifts this dish visually and flavor-wise. For an extra layer of texture and spice, a few red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can add a playful punch that complements the creamy sweetness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or stone-ground grits that soak up the sauce deliciously. Alternatively, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of cream and cheese, making sure every bite is pure indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve this dish in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan and fresh herbs on top. You can also plate it over a bed of sautéed greens or inside crispy tortilla shells as a fun shrimp and corn taco twist—perfect for casual entertaining or family meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can safely store any leftover Shrimp and Creamed Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the shrimp can become firmer over time, so it’s best eaten within that window for optimal texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal due to the cream base, which may separate upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, transfer to a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating gently to help retain as much creaminess as possible.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of broth or cream while reheating can help restore the luscious texture and keep the shrimp tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work wonderfully for this recipe. Just thaw them properly before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure they cook evenly and stay tender.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
While shrimp is central to the Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe, you can swap shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower for a vegetarian twist that still delivers creamy, comforting flavors.
What’s the best type of corn to use?
Fresh summer corn brings natural sweetness and vibrancy, but frozen corn is an excellent convenient alternative that retains great flavor and texture when cooked properly.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Adding red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion and garlic or finishing with a dash of your favorite hot sauce offers a lovely spicy contrast that works beautifully with the creamy elements.
How long does the recipe take to prepare?
This dish is a speedy winner, taking about 25 minutes total from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe a try—you’ll love how straightforward it is to make while tasting like a rich, restaurant-quality meal. Its balance of creamy, sweet, smoky, and bright flavors will quickly earn it a favorite spot on your dinner rotation. Trust me, once you dig in, you’ll be planning to make it again and again!
Print
Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make seafood skillet dish featuring tender shrimp cooked with smoky paprika and a rich, creamy corn mixture infused with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavors of shrimp and garlic, finished with a bright touch of lemon juice.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Corn Cream Mixture
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, then melt butter in the same skillet. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook Corn: Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn becomes tender and slightly golden.
- Add Cream and Broth: Stir in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to combine the flavors.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes more until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Return Shrimp and Add Lemon: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir in fresh lemon juice. Heat everything through for 1-2 minutes, ensuring shrimp is warmed and flavors are well blended.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or parsley over the top before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the onion and garlic.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, creamy grits, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Using fresh summer corn when in season will enhance the natural sweetness and flavor of the dish.
