Name: Savory Shrimp and Creamed Corn: A Quick Summer Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (primary protein source); 1 teaspoon chili powder (adds warmth and depth); 0.25 teaspoon salt (to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil (perfect for sautéing shrimp); 2 tablespoons salted butter (adds richness); 0.5 cup chopped onion (provides savory depth); 5 cloves garlic, minced (essential for flavor); 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (gives a smoky flavor); 1 cup half-and-half (creates creamy texture); 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled (provides salty creaminess); 2 small limes (for acidity and garnish); fresh cilantro (as a garnish)

The scent of summer is alive in my kitchen, and it’s calling from the pan. This 30-Minute Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe is a delightful celebration of sun-kissed flavors, featuring tender shrimp and sweet corn swimming in a creamy, slightly spicy feta sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder not only makes dinner a breeze but also elevates your usual routine into something special. The best part? It’s gluten-free and high in protein, ensuring you can indulge without a hint of guilt. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family meal, this vibrant dish serves as a reminder that cooking at home can be both quick and satisfying. What’s your favorite summer flavor to cook with?

What makes this dish a summer favorite?

Quick and Easy: Whether you’re a home chef or just trying to whip up a family meal, this recipe comes together in 30 minutes!

Flavor-Packed: The luscious blend of sweet corn, zesty lime, and creamy feta creates a burst of summer flavor in every bite.

Versatile Dish: Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, adapting this recipe to your taste and dietary needs.

One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious creation, perfect for those busy weeknights!

Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it warm with rice or corn tortillas, and watch your friends and family rave about this comforting dish.

Don’t forget to check out my Pineapple Chicken Rice for another summer dish that’s sure to impress!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful dish!

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, serving as the primary protein source.
Chili Powder – 1 teaspoon, adds warmth and depth to the dish.
Salt – ¼ teaspoon, to taste, enhances the overall flavor profile.
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, perfect for sautéing shrimp; avocado oil is a great substitute.

For the Creamy Sauce

Butter – 2 tablespoons salted butter, adds richness; feel free to use unsalted if preferred.
Onion – ½ cup chopped onion, provides savory depth; yellow or white onions work well.
Garlic – 5 cloves, minced, essential for flavor; you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Corn – 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn), sweet and textural; frozen corn makes for a quick alternative.
Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon, gives a smoky flavor; regular paprika is fine if you don’t have smoked.
Half-and-Half – 1 cup, creates the creamy texture; feel free to use cream or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.
Feta Cheese – 4 oz, divided (crumbled), provides that delightful salty creaminess; goat cheese can be used for a different taste.

For Finishing Touches

Limes – 2 small limes, for acidity and garnish; substitute with lemon if limes aren’t handy.
Fresh Cilantro – as a garnish, adds a fresh pop; parsley or green onions can work if you prefer.

Get ready to savor the deliciousness of Shrimp and Creamed Corn with these fabulous ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Step 1: Cook Shrimp
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, season 1.5 pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon of chili powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt, then sauté for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside, keeping them warm.

Step 2: Sauté Onions
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add ½ cup of chopped onion and a light sprinkle of salt, cooking until the onions soften and become translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent browning, allowing the onion’s sweetness to develop as you prepare for the next layer of flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in 5 minced garlic cloves, allowing them to cook for about 2 minutes. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden, enhancing the savory base of your Shrimp and Creamed Corn. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning, which could add bitterness to the dish.

Step 4: Incorporate Corn and Spices
Next, add 1.5 cups of cooked corn kernels and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the mixture in the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing the corn to warm through and soak up the savory flavors for about 3 minutes. The combination of corn and spices will create a vibrant, colorful mix that illustrates the joy of summer cooking.

Step 5: Make Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of half-and-half, stirring continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. As it heats, mix in 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. This creates a rich and creamy base that envelops the corn and shrimp beautifully, making the dish irresistible.

Step 6: Finish Dish
Finish off your Shrimp and Creamed Corn by squeezing the juice of 2 small limes into the creamy sauce, giving it a refreshing zing. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they get reheated for about 2 minutes. For a polished presentation, top with the remaining corn, lime slices, and freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Adjust seasoning for taste, adding more chili powder if desired.

Expert Tips for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Perfect Shrimp Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; it ensures even cooking, yielding tender and juicy shrimp in your Shrimp and Creamed Corn.
Spice It Up: Adjust the chili powder to suit your heat preference. Adding more can transform your dish into a delightful spicy experience!
Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: While fresh corn gives sweetness, high-quality frozen corn is a great time-saver and works well in this recipe.
Creamy Consistency: For a lighter version, feel free to substitute half-and-half with a dairy-free alternative or cream for desired creaminess without the weight.
Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the lime juice and cilantro; they add freshness and brightness that complete the flavor profiles of the dish!

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp and Creamed Corn are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the onions and garlic and mix in the corn up to 24 hours in advance; just cover and refrigerate the mixture to maintain its flavor and freshness. Additionally, you can season and refrigerate the shrimp for up to 3 days, which saves you time on busy weeknights. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, simply reheat the corn mixture in a skillet, add half-and-half and feta, then stir in the shrimp until heated through. This way, you’ll savor a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as if you made it all at once!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish and make it your own!

Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken for a heartier option that’s equally satisfying. Chicken thighs or breasts offer a great flavor and texture.
Vegetarian Delight: Use tofu instead of shrimp to keep it plant-based while still capturing the creamy essence of the dish.
Dairy-Free Creaminess: Substituting the feta with dairy-free cheese provides a creamy texture without the dairy, making it perfect for vegans.
Added Veggies: Add bell peppers or zucchini to the dish for a nutritious boost and extra color. These veggies can complement the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
Spice it Up: If you love heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick that will elevate your taste buds.
Herb Variations: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or dill along with the cilantro for a refreshing twist that changes the flavor profile.
Flavor Infusion: Try marinating the shrimp in lime juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking for a deeper flavor punch.

You might also love my Garlic Butter Shrimp for a different take on shrimp dishes, or consider trying the vibrant flavors in my Pineapple Chicken Rice for a tropical twist!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure the dish is cooled before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: Place cooled shrimp and creamed corn in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion when freezing.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently heat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of half-and-half to retain creaminess and prevent drying out.

Serving: Always check seasoning after reheating, as flavors may dull slightly during storage. Enjoy this quick meal with a garnish of fresh cilantro or lime!

What to Serve with Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Picture a delightful summer evening enhanced by a meal that brings your family together. This vibrant dish pairs beautifully with various sides and sips to complement its rich flavors.

Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty side that mirrors the lime in the dish, enhancing the overall freshness and adding a comforting texture.
Grilled Asparagus: The slight char and crispness of grilled asparagus contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce, bringing a lovely earthy tone to your plate.
Corn Tortillas: Warm, soft tortillas are perfect for scooping up the shrimp and creamed corn, adding a delightful texture that enhances the dish’s flavors.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp romaine and a light vinaigrette adds a crunchy element, making it a perfect balance for the creamy shrimp.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio elevates the dining experience, providing a refreshing palate cleanser to enjoy with every bite.
Frozen Lime Sorbet: End the meal with a light dessert to cleanse the palate, echoing the bright lime flavor from the dish while keeping the summer vibe alive.

Let your imagination and taste buds soar as you create the perfect summer spread!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp for this dish?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are fresh, firm, and have a slightly sweet smell. Opt for shrimp that are clear to slightly opaque; avoid any with dark spots, as they may indicate spoilage. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are individually quick-frozen (IQF) to preserve quality.

How should I store leftovers of Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
To keep your leftovers at their best, transfer them into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Ensure the dish is cooled before sealing, which helps preserve freshness. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat on the stove to maintain those delightful flavors.

Can I freeze Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, let the dish cool completely. Then, place the shrimp and creamed corn in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space to allow for expansion during freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove for the best results.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce has become too thick, no worries! Simply add a splash of half-and-half or warm water to the skillet while reheating. Stir gently until you reach your desired consistency. This will not only bring back the silky texture but also keep the dish enjoyable.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe is gluten-free and high in protein, making it suitable for many diets. However, be cautious if you’re serving someone with shellfish allergies. You can easily substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein source. Always check for allergens in your ingredients, such as dairy in the feta cheese and half-and-half.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Very! High-quality frozen corn is an excellent substitute if fresh corn isn’t available. It’s quick to cook and keeps that lovely sweetness and texture in your dish. Just make sure to thaw it slightly before adding it to the pan to prevent excess moisture from diluting your creamy sauce.