Description
This Homemade Creamed Corn recipe offers a rich and comforting side dish perfect for any meal. Made with fresh corn kernels, creamy dairy, and subtle seasonings, it combines buttery sautéed onions and garlic with a smooth, thickened sauce that is both flavorful and satisfying. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, this creamed corn is delightful served warm and makes a great accompaniment to meats, poultry, or vegetarian entrees.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or canned drained)
Dairy and Fats
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup cream cheese
Seasonings and Thickeners
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter and sauté aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook gently for 5-10 minutes until fully softened but not browned, maintaining medium heat to prevent color development.
- Add thyme and flour: Stir in the dried thyme and flour, mixing until a smooth paste forms. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour becomes frothy to cook out the raw taste.
- Incorporate milk and cream: Gradually pour the milk into the pot while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Once combined, stir in the heavy cream thoroughly.
- Simmer to thicken sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a low simmer. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. If it remains thin, slightly raise the heat and continue cooking while stirring until the desired thickness is reached.
- Add corn and cream cheese: Stir in the corn kernels and cream cheese, mixing them well into the thickened sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the corn is fully heated through.
- Season to taste: Finish by seasoning with sugar, salt, and pepper according to your preference. Stir well and serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh corn when in season for the best flavor, or drain canned corn thoroughly to avoid extra liquid.
- Do not brown the onions and garlic; gentle softening is key for a smooth cream base.
- Sugar helps balance the natural acidity of the cream and corn but adjust to your taste.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Serve immediately for best texture, or gently reheat on low to avoid curdling.
