Shrimp and Creamed Corn

This dish combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the richness of a creamy feta sauce, complemented by the smoky heat of seasoned shrimp. The result is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

The creamy corn sauce envelops the shrimp, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Garnished with a squeeze of lime and fresh cilantro, this dish offers a delightful balance of spice and freshness, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ears fresh corn on the cob (grilled or boiled)

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt, to taste

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream)

• 3 oz feta cheese, crumbled

• Juice of 1 lime

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Corn: Grill or boil the corn until tender. Once cooked, remove the kernels from the cobs and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook the shrimp in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

4. Make the Creamed Corn Sauce: Add the corn kernels to the skillet, stirring to combine. Pour in the half-and-half and bring to a simmer. Stir in crumbled feta cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy corn sauce. Squeeze lime juice over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
Servings: 4

Introduction to Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Shrimp and creamed corn is a delicious and comforting dish that perfectly balances sweetness, creaminess, and a touch of spice. This recipe takes fresh corn—either grilled or boiled—and transforms it into a velvety sauce that envelopes tender shrimp cooked with chili powder and smoked paprika. The result is a harmonious combination of flavors and textures that works well as a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests. It’s easy to prepare, packed with protein and fiber, and versatile enough to adapt to your tastes.

The star of this dish is the creamed corn sauce, which gets its richness from half-and-half or heavy cream, combined with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy depth of flavor. The shrimp are seasoned to give a subtle smoky heat, which contrasts beautifully with the natural sweetness of the corn. A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro add brightness and freshness to the plate.

Why This Dish Works So Well

The magic behind shrimp and creamed corn lies in the flavor balance and textural contrast. Sweet corn kernels provide a slightly crunchy bite, while the creamy sauce adds indulgence without being overpowering. The shrimp, cooked just right, remain juicy and tender with a slight kick of spice to keep the palate interested.

Additionally, the feta cheese plays a crucial role. Unlike milder cheeses, feta introduces a salty, slightly tangy note that cuts through the richness of the cream. This prevents the dish from feeling heavy or monotonous. The lime juice and fresh cilantro brighten up the dish with acidity and herbal notes, elevating it beyond a simple cream sauce.

From a nutritional standpoint, this recipe offers a good balance of macronutrients. Shrimp is a lean protein packed with vitamins and minerals like selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Corn provides complex carbohydrates and fiber, helping to keep you full and energized. Using half-and-half rather than heavier creams can keep the calorie count moderate while maintaining that luscious texture.

Ingredients That Make It Special

Using fresh corn is a game-changer for this dish. Fresh corn kernels have a vibrant sweetness and crunch that canned corn cannot match. Grilling the corn first adds a subtle smokiness that complements the smoky paprika seasoning on the shrimp. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn can be a suitable substitute, but grilling adds that extra layer of flavor.

Seasoning the shrimp with chili powder and smoked paprika adds warmth and complexity. The paprika’s smokiness pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the corn and the creamy sauce, while chili powder brings just enough heat to keep things lively without overpowering the delicate seafood.

The feta cheese adds a unique twist. It’s not traditionally used in creamed corn recipes, but its crumbly texture and tangy flavor make it an inspired addition. It melts gently into the sauce, giving richness and complexity.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Shrimp and Creamed Corn

1. Don’t overcook the shrimp. Shrimp cook very quickly and become rubbery if overdone. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side.

2. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh corn, quality shrimp, and good feta cheese will elevate the dish significantly.

3. Adjust the spice levels to your liking. You can increase the chili powder for more heat or tone it down if you prefer a milder dish.

4. Fresh lime juice and cilantro at the end are key. These final touches brighten the entire plate and provide balance.

5. Serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed right away while the shrimp remain tender and the sauce is creamy.

Variations and Customizations

Shrimp and creamed corn is highly adaptable. For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for the half-and-half, and omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese. For those who like a smoky twist, add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked salt.

You can also incorporate other vegetables into the sauce. Diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even a handful of spinach or kale can add color, nutrients, and extra flavor. For a heartier meal, serve this dish over rice, quinoa, or creamy polenta to soak up the sauce.

If you prefer a less spicy version, replace chili powder with sweet paprika or omit it altogether and add fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon for a different aromatic profile.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Shrimp and creamed corn works wonderfully as a standalone dish, but you can easily pair it with a light side salad or crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce. For a full meal, consider serving it alongside roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.

A crisp, acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish, cutting through the creaminess and enhancing the seafood flavors.

Health Benefits

This dish offers several nutritional benefits. Shrimp is low in calories but rich in protein, making it excellent for muscle repair and weight management. It also contains antioxidants like astaxanthin, which can reduce inflammation.

Corn is a good source of fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health. The use of fresh herbs like cilantro provides additional antioxidants and vitamins.

By using half-and-half instead of heavier creams, this recipe keeps saturated fats in check while still providing a creamy texture. The dish is also naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Shrimp and creamed corn is a dish that balances simplicity with sophistication. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t require hours of prep but tastes like something from a fine dining restaurant. The combination of creamy, sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors keeps your palate entertained while the fresh herbs and lime juice add a final flourish.

If you want to impress your family or guests with minimal effort, this recipe is a winner. It’s also very flexible, allowing you to customize it to your dietary needs and flavor preferences. Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone looking to explore new dinner ideas, this dish deserves a place on your rotation.

Conclusion

Shrimp and creamed corn is more than just a comforting seafood dish; it’s a celebration of fresh, bold flavors and textures. The luscious cream sauce, sweet corn, and perfectly seasoned shrimp combine to create a meal that feels indulgent yet balanced. Its ease of preparation, nutritional benefits, and adaptability make it an excellent choice for cooks of all skill levels.

With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that’s perfect for casual dinners or special occasions. The bright finish of lime and cilantro adds a refreshing contrast, keeping every bite exciting. Whether served on its own or alongside your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen.

Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious blend of creamy, sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors that make shrimp and creamed corn truly unforgettable.