Shrimp and creamed corn is a delightful and vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. With its creamy texture and zesty flavors, this meal brings together fresh shrimp and sweet corn in a way that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or preparing a weeknight dinner, this 30-minute, one-pan recipe is sure to impress. The standout feature of this dish lies in its creamy feta cheese sauce, inspired by Mexican street corn—a unique twist that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Convenience: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal with family or friends.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy feta creates a rich taste experience that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside rice and salad for a complete meal.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing fresh corn and shrimp makes this dish ideal for summer gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To get started on your Shrimp and Creamed Corn, having the right tools can make all the difference. Gather these essential kitchen items to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and easy mixing of ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Precision matters when adding spices; accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy, reducing prep time.
Ingredients
To prepare your Shrimp and Creamed Corn, you will need the following 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 the Creamed Corn Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ½ 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)
To Finish
- 2 small limes
- Fresh cilantro
How to Make Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Chop the onion finely, mince the garlic, and grill or boil your corn if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil and butter.
2. Once melted, add chopped onion, stirring occasionally until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic, sautéing for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook Corn & Seasonings
Add cooked corn kernels to the skillet:
1. Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
2. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Step 4: Add Shrimp & Creamy Mixture
Next, add the shrimp:
1. Cook for around 4-5 minutes or until they turn pink.
2. Pour in half-and-half while stirring gently.
3. Crumble half of the feta cheese into the mixture.
Step 5: Final Touches
Cook for another minute until everything is well combined:
1. Squeeze lime juice over the top just before serving.
2. Garnish with remaining feta cheese and fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your delicious Shrimp and Creamed Corn!
How to Serve Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Serving shrimp and creamed corn is simple and delightful. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it versatile for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
On a Bed of Rice
- Serve the shrimp and creamed corn over fluffy white or brown rice for a heartier meal that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
With Fresh Tortillas
- Pair with warm corn or flour tortillas for a fun, hand-held option. You can use them to scoop up the creamy goodness!
Topped with Lime Zest
- Sprinkle fresh lime zest on top before serving to add an extra burst of citrus flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Garnished with Cilantro
- Add a handful of fresh cilantro leaves as a garnish for a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish.
As a Salad Filling
- Use the shrimp and creamed corn as a filling for salads. Combine it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a refreshing twist.
How to Perfect Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Perfecting shrimp and creamed corn is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp will provide better texture and flavor than frozen options.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook until just pink and opaque; overcooking will make them rubbery.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more salt or spices according to your preferences.
- Opt for Quality Feta: Crumbling fresh feta cheese gives a creamier texture compared to pre-crumbled varieties.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding other herbs like parsley or dill for different flavor profiles.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot right after cooking, ensuring maximum creaminess and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Pairing side dishes with shrimp and creamed corn can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds color and nutrition.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes makes for a refreshing side.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunchiness that pairs well with the rich flavors of the main dish.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful complement to the savory shrimp.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, lemon vinaigrette, and nuts adds freshness.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide heartiness while balancing out the creaminess of the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan) even more delicious.
- Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the shrimp well can lead to bland flavors. Use a good amount of chili powder and smoked paprika for that perfect kick.
- Overcooking shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them rubbery. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink.
- Ignoring corn quality: Using frozen or canned corn instead of fresh can change the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh corn when possible for the best taste.
- Skipping butter: Neglecting butter means missing out on rich flavor. The combination of olive oil and butter enhances the creaminess of the dish.
- Not using lime: Forgetting to add lime juice at the end takes away a needed brightness. Squeeze fresh lime over the dish just before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
- Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Portioning into smaller containers makes reheating easier.
Reheating Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short bursts of 1 minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan).
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.
How can I customize Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)?
You can customize this dish by adding bell peppers or jalapeños for extra spice or using different cheeses like queso fresco.
What sides pair well with Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
Serve it with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The flavors are mild enough for kids while still being delicious for adults.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan) is not only quick but also versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Shrimp and Creamed Corn
Shrimp and Creamed Corn is a delightful one-pan dish that captures the vibrant essence of summer dining. Featuring succulent shrimp and sweet corn combined in a creamy feta cheese sauce, this recipe is not only quick but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, you can whip up this satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. The unique twist inspired by Mexican street corn elevates this dish, making it a memorable culinary experience that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 4 oz feta cheese (crumbled)
- Juice of 2 limes
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prep all ingredients: chop onion, mince garlic, and grill or boil corn if necessary.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter until melted. Sauté onion until translucent, then add minced garlic.
- Stir in cooked corn, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt; heat through.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink (approximately 4-5 minutes). Gradually pour in half-and-half while stirring gently; crumble in half of the feta.
- Cook another minute to combine flavors. Squeeze lime juice over the dish before serving and garnish with remaining feta and cilantro.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 170mg