Is there anything more disappointing than a bowl of creamed corn that’s…well, not creamy? We’ve all been there, staring down at that sad, watery puddle at the bottom, wondering where the luscious, comforting goodness went. But fear not! This recipe is your knight in shining armor, guaranteeing a perfectly rich, velvety, and unbelievably cheesy creamed corn every single time. Get ready to say goodbye to watery sauce forever!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Creamed Corn
This isn’t your grandma’s bland creamed corn (unless your grandma’s a culinary genius, of course!). Here’s why this recipe will become a staple:
- Perfectly Creamy: The secret is in the roux! This simple technique guarantees a thick, luxurious sauce that clings to every kernel.
- Incredibly Cheesy: Cheddar and Monterey Jack combine for a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and irresistible.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses or stands alone as a satisfying side.
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will gobble this up!
Gathering Your Ingredients for Cheesy Creamed Corn
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about the stars of the show – the ingredients! This recipe relies on simple, readily available items, but the quality of those ingredients does make a difference. We’re aiming for a harmonious blend of sweet corn, rich dairy, and sharp cheese to create the ultimate comfort food experience.
Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
- Corn: The heart of our dish! You’ll need 4 cups of corn kernels. Frozen corn is a fantastic option because it’s convenient and retains its sweetness beautifully. Canned corn works too, just make sure to drain it really well to avoid that dreaded watery sauce.
- Butter: Two tablespoons of unsalted butter will form the base of our roux, adding richness and flavor. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Flour: Two tablespoons of all-purpose flour are crucial for creating the roux, our secret weapon against watery sauce! It acts as a thickening agent, binding the milk and creating that creamy texture we crave.
- Milk: For the creamiest results, 1 1/2 cups of whole milk is highly recommended. The higher fat content contributes to a richer, more decadent sauce. However, you can use 2% milk if you prefer a slightly lighter option.
- Cheese: Here comes the fun part! 1/2 cup of shredded cheese is mixed into the corn, plus extra for topping. A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a delightful balance of sharp and mild flavors. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses!
- Seasoning: Simple but essential. We’ll use salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
Crafting Your Cheesy Creamed Corn: Step-by-Step
Ready to transform those simple ingredients into a bowl of creamy, cheesy perfection? Don’t be intimidated! This recipe is surprisingly straightforward. The key to success lies in mastering the roux and gradually incorporating the milk. Let’s get started!
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely and become slightly bubbly. This indicates that it’s hot enough to properly cook the flour in the next step.
- Create the Roux: This is the most important step! Once the butter is melted and bubbly, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. The mixture will form a paste. Cook this roux, whisking constantly, for about 1 minute. This process cooks the flour, removing any raw flour taste and allowing it to properly thicken the sauce. This is crucial for preventing wateriness, so don’t skip this step!
- Add the Milk Gradually: Slowly pour in 1 1/2 cups of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. This gradual addition is key! Adding the milk all at once can result in a lumpy sauce, which we definitely want to avoid. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Simmer for Thickness: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process allows the sauce to thicken further, developing a velvety texture. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate the Corn: Add 4 cups of drained corn kernels to the sauce. Stir to combine and heat the corn through, about 3 to 5 minutes. Make sure the corn is heated through evenly.
- Cheese Time! Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese until it is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. The residual heat will melt the cheese beautifully, creating a luscious, cheesy sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Season to Perfection: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with a little extra cheese and pepper if desired. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, also adds a lovely touch.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Creamed Corn Every Time
Want to elevate your creamed corn game to the next level? Here are a few pro tips to ensure cheesy, creamy perfection every single time:
- Don’t Rush the Roux: Cooking the roux properly is essential for a thick, non-watery sauce. Be patient and cook it for the full minute, whisking constantly.
- Gradual Milk Addition: Adding the milk slowly and whisking continuously prevents lumps. If lumps do form, try using an immersion blender to smooth out the sauce.
- Use Good Quality Cheese: The better the cheese, the better the flavor! Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Salt and pepper are your friends! Don’t be afraid to season generously to bring out the flavors of the corn and cheese.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or thyme adds a burst of freshness and flavor.
What to Serve With Cheesy Creamed Corn
Cheesy creamed corn is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. It’s a classic accompaniment to roasted chicken or steak, adding a touch of sweetness and richness to the meal. It’s also delicious with grilled fish or shrimp, providing a comforting contrast to the smoky flavors. For a vegetarian option, try serving it with a hearty lentil loaf or a flavorful vegetable curry.
You can even transform it into a complete meal by adding some grilled chicken or sausage. If you’re looking for another delicious side to pair with your creamed corn, you should try our golden vegetable rice pilaf.
Your Cheesy Creamed Corn Questions Answered (FAQ)
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Frozen corn is a great option and often retains more of its natural sweetness. Just be sure to thaw it slightly and drain off any excess water before adding it to the sauce.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! Cheddar and Monterey Jack are a classic combination, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Pepper Jack, or even a little bit of Parmesan.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamed corn ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.
My sauce is too thick. What can I do?
If your sauce is too thick, simply add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well after each addition.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, but note that you may need to alter the recipe slightly. Instead of the regular milk, you can swap it out for plant-based milk. Try to use the unsweetened version. Also, replace the butter for a plant-based butter alternative. If you wish to make some delicious vegan desserts, you should try out our chocolate covered apple dessert cups recipe.
Enjoy Your Homemade Cheesy Creamed Corn!
There you have it – a foolproof recipe for cheesy creamed corn that’s guaranteed to be a hit! This creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings. So, ditch the watery store-bought stuff and whip up a batch of this homemade goodness. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out!