Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

Shrimp and creamed corn (30 minutes, one-pan) is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer. This recipe brings together juicy shrimp with sweet creamed corn, all enveloped in a creamy feta cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this meal showcases vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and the memorable taste it delivers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy an easy clean-up with everything cooked in one pan, saving you time and effort.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of shrimp, spices, and creamy feta creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Incorporating fresh corn brings a taste of summer right to your table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with crusty bread, or on its own for a delightful meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this mouthwatering shrimp and creamed corn dish efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools that make cooking easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without crowding.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables and easy mincing of garlic.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.
• Spatula: Ideal for stirring and serving, ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1.5 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, large – about 15-20 count per pound)

For the Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons salted butter

For the Base

• ½ cup chopped onion
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (I used 2 ears of grilled or boiled corn)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For Creaminess

• 1 cup half-and-half
• 4 oz feta cheese (divided; it’s best to use a block of feta that you crumble yourself)

To Finish

• 2 small limes
• Fresh cilantro

How to Make Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
1. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Add the raw shrimp to the skillet along with chili powder and salt.
1. Cook until the shrimp turns pink, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove the shrimp from the pan temporarily.

Step 3: Prepare the Corn Mixture

In the same skillet, add cooked corn kernels and smoked paprika.
1. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
2. Pour in half-and-half while stirring continuously.

Step 4: Add Feta Cheese and Shrimp Back In

Crumble half of the feta cheese into the mixture.
1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
2. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Final Touches

Squeeze juice from fresh limes over the dish before serving.
1. Garnish with remaining feta cheese and freshly chopped cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious shrimp and creamed corn meal!

How to Serve Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

Serving shrimp and creamed corn is all about enhancing its rich flavors while adding a touch of freshness. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this dish.

Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives add a mild onion flavor that complements the dish well.

Citrus Zest

• Lime Slices: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra zing that brightens up the creamy sauce.
• Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest over the top just before serving for added aroma.

Crunchy Toppings

• Toasted Corn Nuts: Add a handful of toasted corn nuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess.
• Crumbled Tortilla Chips: Scatter crumbled tortilla chips on top to give your dish extra texture.

Accompaniments

• Warm Tortillas: Serve with warm tortillas to scoop up the shrimp and creamed corn, creating a fun and interactive meal.
• Rice or Quinoa: Pair with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce and add heartiness.

How to Perfect Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

Perfecting shrimp and creamed corn is simple with a few key tips. Follow these suggestions for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and seasonal corn make all the difference in flavor. Opt for locally sourced produce when possible.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the chili powder based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery texture.
• Balance Creaminess: For less richness, substitute half-and-half with milk or use lighter cream alternatives while still achieving creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

Pair your shrimp and creamed corn with complementary side dishes that enhance the meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition. Lightly season and grill until tender.
2. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens dressed lightly will provide a crisp contrast to the creamy main dish.
3. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any remaining sauce, making it an irresistible addition.
4. Avocado Slices: Sliced avocado offers a creamy element that pairs beautifully with the shrimp while adding healthy fats.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the creamed corn.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with lime juice and cilantro is refreshing and complements the flavors in your main dish nicely.
7. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty texture that works well alongside shrimp.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins add sweetness, which pairs beautifully with savory shrimp flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan) experience.

• Using frozen shrimp: Fresh shrimp is preferable for better texture and flavor. If frozen is all you have, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Cook just until pink and opaque for the best results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish as you go. Depending on your corn sweetness, you may need more or less chili powder or salt.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh lime juice and cilantro significantly enhance flavor. Don’t settle for bottled juice or dried herbs if you can avoid it.
• Not letting the corn cool before cutting: If using grilled corn, let it cool before cutting to avoid burns and achieve cleaner cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best used within 1-2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan).

Can I use other seafood instead of shrimp?

Yes, you can substitute scallops or fish fillets if desired. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the seafood used.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can replace the half-and-half with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What can I serve with Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness mainly comes from chili powder. You can adjust it to your preference by using less or adding more spices.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan) is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors in a quick meal. Its versatility allows for customization; feel free to add different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate—try making this delicious recipe today!