Creamed Corn and Shrimp Skillet Recipe

Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner option that screams sophistication without the fuss? Enter: Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan). This recipe takes the vibrant, smoky essence of Mexican street corn and transforms it into a delightful seafood dish that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. Picture succulent shrimp nestled in a creamy feta cheese sauce, all coming together in just one pan for minimal cleanup – perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy summer evenings.

I stumbled upon this gem while navigating a surplus of garden-fresh corn and craving something special yet hassle-free. The result? A dish that has become a staple in my summer cooking repertoire, earning rave reviews from friends and family alike. Even those who once viewed cooking seafood as a daunting task have been won over by the simplicity and deliciousness of this shrimp and creamed corn creation. So, if you’re on the hunt for a standout meal that’s ready in a flash and bursting with bold flavors, look no further than this delightful recipe.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Fusion of flavors: Combines the vibrant, smoky flavors of Mexican street corn with the tangy feta cheese sauce for a sophisticated taste experience.
• Versatile and impressive: A one-pan seafood dish that feels like a special occasion meal without the need for complicated techniques or a long list of ingredients.
• Beginner-friendly: A great introduction to cooking seafood at home, showcasing that shrimp can be one of the easiest proteins to master.

Why You’ll Love This Creamed Corn and Shrimp Skillet Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Fusion: Combines the vibrant, smoky flavors of Mexican street corn (Elote) with tender shrimp in a tangy feta cheese sauce, creating a sophisticated and delicious dish.
• Summer Delight: Ideal for summer nights when fresh corn is abundant, this dish captures the essence of the season with its sweet corn and zesty lime flavors.
• Impressively Simple: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced home cooks.
• Seafood Mastery: Perfect for seafood skeptics or those intimidated by cooking shrimp, this dish showcases how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality seafood meal at home.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the leftovers for up to 2 days by reheating gently in a skillet to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce without overcooking the shrimp.
• One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, this recipe is a convenient option that allows you to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner without the hassle of multiple dishes.

Ingredients for Creamed Corn and Shrimp Skillet Recipe

For the Shrimp

• ¼ tsp salt, or to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1.5 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (15-20 count per pound)

For the Creamed Corn

• 1 cup half-and-half
• 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled (use a block for best results)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp salted butter
• 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 small limes
• Extra chili powder or paprika (optional)

How to Make Creamed Corn and Shrimp Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Pan

Preheat a large 12-inch skillet with high sides over medium heat. Add the olive oil; it should flow easily across the pan without sizzling or smoking.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Place shrimp in hot skillet, sprinkle with chili powder and salt, ensuring they are not crowded. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, flipping as needed, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Start the Sauce

In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and a sprinkle of salt. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onion softens.

Step 4: Add the Garlic

Add minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Adjust heat as necessary.

Step 5: Add Corn and Paprika

Combine 1 cup of cooked corn and smoked paprika, stirring to mix. Reserve remaining corn for topping.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

Add half-and-half to a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in 3 ounces of crumbled feta cheese until melted into a creamy sauce.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Juice half a lime into the sauce, then return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently reheat. Top with remaining corn, sliced limes, chopped cilantro, and sprinkle with extra chili powder or paprika if desired.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve prepared the shrimp and creamed corn dish, any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To properly reheat the dish, it’s best to use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of liquid to help maintain the creamy texture of the sauce. Avoid using the microwave to reheat as it may overcook the shrimp. The seafood in this dish is delicate, so reheating gently will help preserve its texture and flavor.

Due to the dairy-based sauce and the delicate nature of the shrimp, this shrimp and creamed corn dish is not suitable for freezing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days when stored in the refrigerator. Remember that seafood can be sensitive to reheating, so taking care during the reheating process will ensure that your dish remains flavorful and enjoyable.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this dish with a different protein or cater to dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute the shrimp with diced chicken breast or tofu cubes. Both options will absorb the flavors of the creamed corn and feta cheese sauce while still providing a satisfying meal.

For a dairy-free version of this recipe, you can swap the half-and-half with canned coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. This substitution will give you a creamy texture without compromising the overall flavor profile of the dish. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of feta cheese, you can try using goat cheese or grated Parmesan for a different tangy kick in the sauce. Experimenting with different cheeses can add a unique twist to the dish while still maintaining its rich and creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For a stylish and flavorful presentation of the shrimp and creamed corn, consider serving it in individual corn husk cups. Simply take fresh corn husks, fold them into small cups, and fill them with generous portions of the creamy shrimp mixture. Top each serving with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a dash of extra chili powder for a burst of color and flavor. This presentation not only adds a rustic touch to your dish but also makes it easy for guests to enjoy this vibrant meal at a summer gathering.

To elevate the dining experience further, serve the shrimp and creamed corn alongside a refreshing avocado and tomato salad. Dressed with a zesty lime vinaigrette and garnished with cilantro leaves, this salad provides a bright contrast to the rich and smoky flavors of the main dish. The combination of creamy shrimp, sweet corn, tangy feta, and fresh avocado will create a harmonious balance of textures and tastes that will impress your guests and make this meal a true standout.

FAQs for Creamed Corn and Shrimp Skillet Recipe

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp?

Yes, you can substitute frozen shrimp for fresh shrimp in this recipe. Make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

While feta cheese adds a tangy flavor to the dish, you can experiment with other types of cheese like cotija or queso fresco for a similar texture and taste profile.

Can I make this dish ahead of time for a dinner party?

This dish is best served fresh to enjoy the tender shrimp and creamy sauce at their peak. However, you can prepare the components in advance and quickly assemble and cook them just before serving to save time.

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn?

While fresh corn adds a sweet and crisp texture to the dish, you can use canned corn as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to drain and rinse the canned corn before adding it to the recipe.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan) becomes a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can come together to create such a flavorful and satisfying dish in just half an hour. Don’t be intimidated by cooking seafood at home – this recipe proves that it can be quick, easy, and delicious.

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen. So grab a pan, some fresh shrimp, and corn, and let the magic happen. Whether you’re treating yourself to a special dinner or impressing friends and family with your culinary skills, this recipe is sure to delight. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan) dish and savor the flavors of summer in every mouthful!

Creamed Corn and Shrimp Skillet Recipe

Creamy, savory shrimp and creamed corn blend the flavors of Mexican street corn with tender shrimp in a tangy feta cheese sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineMexican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• ¼ tsp salt, or to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1.5 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (15-20 count per pound)

For the Creamed Corn

• 1 cup half-and-half
• 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled (use a block for best results)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp salted butter
• 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 small limes
• Extra chili powder or paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the Pan: Preheat a large 12-inch skillet with high sides over medium heat. Add the olive oil; it should flow easily across the pan without sizzling or smoking.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Place shrimp in hot skillet, sprinkle with chili powder and salt, ensuring they are not crowded. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, flipping as needed, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. Start the Sauce: In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and a sprinkle of salt. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onion softens.
4. Add the Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Adjust heat as necessary.
5. Add Corn and Paprika: Combine 1 cup of cooked corn and smoked paprika, stirring to mix. Reserve remaining corn for topping.
6. Make It Creamy: Add half-and-half to a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in 3 ounces of crumbled feta cheese until melted into a creamy sauce.
7. Finish and Serve: Juice half a lime into the sauce, then return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently reheat. Top with remaining corn, sliced limes, chopped cilantro, and sprinkle with extra chili powder or paprika if desired.