Name: Creamy Shrimp and Creamed Corn: Your 30-Minute Summer Feast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb Raw Shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (adjust based on preference); ¼ teaspoon Salt (or to taste); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for cooking shrimp); 2 tablespoons Butter ((salted)); ½ cup Chopped Onion (adds sweetness and depth); 5 cloves Garlic (minced); 1.5 cups Corn Kernels ((from 2 ears of corn)); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (to infuse a smoky flavor); 1 cup Half-and-Half (provides creaminess); 4 oz Feta Cheese (crumbled); 2 small Limes (for juicing and garnish); 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)

As the sizzling sound of shrimp hitting the skillet fills the air, I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement. If you’ve been searching for a nourishing yet vibrant dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes, let me introduce you to my effortless Shrimp and Creamed Corn. This one-pan recipe captures the sweet essence of fresh corn, perfectly marrying it with succulent shrimp enveloped in a creamy, spicy feta sauce. Not only is it a whirlwind meal that takes hardly any time to prepare, but it’s also a delightful showstopper that’ll impress your loved ones. Bright, flavorful, and packed with protein, this dish is a celebration of summer and all the bounty it brings. So, are you ready to dive into this culinary adventure?

Why Is This Shrimp Recipe a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner gatherings.

One-Pan Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze—everything cooks in a single skillet, letting you focus more on savoring your meal.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet corn, succulent shrimp, and spicy feta creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Nutritious Delight: Packed with high-protein ingredients, this recipe is as wholesome as it is delicious, making it a guilt-free option for any meal.

Versatile Base: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or even warm tortillas for a complete dining experience, just like you would with my Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless recipe!

Dive into a bowl of summer goodness with this dish—it’s bound to become a favorite at your table!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Raw Shrimp – 1.5 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp makes this dish high-protein and satisfying.
Chili Powder – 1 teaspoon to add a gentle kick of spice; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
Salt – ¼ teaspoon (or to taste) enhances all the flavors beautifully.

For the Creamed Corn Sauce

Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons for cooking shrimp; vegetable oil can be used as a convenient substitute.
Butter – 2 tablespoons (salted) bring richness to the sauce; consider unsalted for a lighter touch.
Chopped Onion – ½ cup adds sweetness and depth; shallots work wonderfully as an alternative.
Garlic – 5 cloves minced for aromatic goodness; garlic powder can stand in if needed.
Corn Kernels – 1.5 cups (from 2 ears of corn) deliver natural sweetness; canned corn can suffice in a pinch.
Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon to infuse a smoky flavor; you can switch it up with regular paprika if preferred.
Half-and-Half – 1 cup provides creaminess; heavy cream or a plant-based alternative can work well, too.
Feta Cheese – 4 oz, crumbled, for a burst of tang; ensure you use block feta for the best texture.

For Serving and Garnish

Limes – 2 small, for juicing and garnish to brighten up the dish; lemon can be a tasty alternative.
Fresh Cilantro – Used for garnish to add freshness and vibrant color; feel free to omit if cilantro isn’t your favorite.

This Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience packed full of flavor and vibrant colors ready to bring joy to your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, season 1.5 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon of chili powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, flipping them until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add ½ cup of chopped onion and sauté until softened, roughly 3 minutes. Stir in 5 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring that the onions are translucent and the garlic is golden without burning.

Step 3: Add the Corn
Now, stir in 1.5 cups of corn kernels along with 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook the mixture while stirring occasionally for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the corn to heat up completely. You will know it’s ready when the corn starts to smell sweet and becomes vibrant and luscious.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of half-and-half and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir continuously while adding 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. This delightful sauce should have a rich and comforting texture by the time you finish.

Step 5: Combine with Shrimp
Squeeze the juice from 2 small limes into the creamy sauce and gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Reheat everything together for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the shrimp to soak in the flavors while ensuring everything is heated through. The sauce should be subtly tangy and perfectly coating the shrimp.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
To finish, garnish your vibrant Shrimp and Creamed Corn with remaining corn, lime slices, and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, pairing it with rice, quinoa, or warm tortillas for a delightful, complete meal ready to impress.

Expert Tips for Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Fresh is Best: Use fresh corn whenever possible for maximum sweetness; it enhances the dish’s flavor profile beautifully.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing, which affects texture.
Adjust the Spice: Start with 1 teaspoon of chili powder and taste before adding more. Customize the spice level to suit your palate for this Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish.
Melt Slowly: When adding feta cheese, do so gradually and stir continuously to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce without clumps.
Garnish Smartly: Finish with a sprinkle of extra cilantro or a few more lime slices for a vibrant touch that elevates presentation and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp and Creamed Corn are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamed corn sauce and sauté the onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the shrimp can be seasoned and kept separate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the creamed corn mixture in a skillet over medium heat, add the shrimp, and cook until heated through. This makes luxurious weeknight dinners oh-so-easy, ensuring you enjoy a fresh, flavorful dish with minimal effort at dinner time!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Variations

Feel free to explore these variations and make this dish your own with flavorful twists!

Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken for a hearty alternative, marinating the chicken in the same spices for unified flavor.
Incorporating tender chicken can create a comforting family meal just as satisfying as the original.
Vegetarian Option: Use crumbled tofu instead of shrimp for a vegetarian twist that still offers protein.
This way, you can enjoy a creamy, enticing dish that’s just as delightful without the shrimp!
Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers or zucchini for a nutritious boost and added color.
Adding vibrant veggies not only enhances texture but also makes the dish even more beautiful and healthy.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions instead of cilantro for varied flavor profiles.
These alternatives can bring a fresh twist to the dish, allowing you to customize according to your taste preferences.
Cheese Change: Try swapping feta with crumbled goat cheese for a tangy kick that might surprise your palate.
The creamy consistency remains while introducing a delightful new flavor that elevates the whole dish!
Heat It Up: For those who love heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the creamy sauce.
This spicy addition will surely create a dish that packs a punch, perfect for heat lovers at your table!
Canned Corn Alternative: If fresh corn isn’t available, use canned corn for convenience without compromising flavor.
Finding versatility in ingredients makes this recipe accessible no matter the season!

With these ideas in mind, you can easily elevate your Shrimp and Creamed Corn experience. If you love experimenting with flavors, you might also enjoy my recipes for Winter Wonderland White Hot Chocolate or Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip cookies! Your dinner adventure awaits!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Creamed Corn

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This ensures the flavors meld while maintaining optimal freshness.

Freezer: If you want to store the dish for longer, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or half-and-half to regain that creamy texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent the shrimp from getting rubbery.

This Shrimp and Creamed Corn dish is a delightful meal that you can enjoy over multiple days!

What to Serve with Shrimp and Creamed Corn

The vibrant, creamy richness of your dish deserves equally delightful companions to create a memorable dining experience.

Fluffy Rice: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, fluffy rice offers a comforting base that balances the bold flavors beautifully.
Quinoa Salad: For a nutrients boost, serve a fresh quinoa salad with citrus vinaigrette. Its nutty taste and texture contrast nicely with the creamed corn.
Warm Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas add a wonderful textural contrast. Use them to scoop up the shrimp and sauce, enhancing every bite with their joyful chewiness.
Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus provides a fresh crunch and earthy flavor that complements the richness of the creamed corn. It’s a simple yet elegant addition.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Bright and zesty, cilantro lime rice elevates the dish by echoing the flavors in the shrimp and creamed corn, offering a lovely aromatic experience.
Margaritas: A glass of refreshing margarita adds a fun twist to dinner, enhancing the flavors with its tangy and sweet profile, perfect for a summer evening.

Each of these delightful pairings brings its own charm to the table, highlighting the luxurious flavors of your Shrimp and Creamed Corn. Enjoy crafting the perfect meal!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing corn, look for ears that are plump with tightly closed husks. The kernels should feel firm and burst with sweetness when bitten into. Fresh corn is ideal, but if you’re in a pinch, high-quality canned corn can work as a substitute.

How should I store leftovers of Shrimp and Creamed Corn?
After enjoying a delightful meal, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, making each bite just as tasty as the first.

Can I freeze this dish for later use?
Certainly! To freeze Shrimp and Creamed Corn, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or half-and-half to revive the creamy texture.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your creamy sauce ends up thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply add a little extra half-and-half or water slowly while stirring to reach your preferred consistency. Be sure to reheat gently, so the flavors continue to meld beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If you’re serving it to a crowd, consider checking for shellfish allergies, as shrimp can be a common allergen. For a vegetarian option, swap the shrimp for crumbled tofu or roasted vegetables.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to boost nutrition and flavor by adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just toss them in when you sauté the onions to ensure they’re tender and flavorful.