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

Name: Shrimp and Creamed Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs raw shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 cup half-and-half; 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels; 4 oz feta cheese; 5 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 small limes; Salt, chili powder, and smoked paprika

Published: June 2, 2025

by Victoria

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 Convenience: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious meal with family and friends.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of shrimp, creamed corn, and feta cheese creates a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or pair it with rice or tortillas for a complete meal.
Seasonal Freshness: Use fresh corn when in season for an even sweeter flavor and enhanced texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet (12-inch)
Cooking spoon or spatula
Measuring spoons
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: The size allows you to cook the shrimp evenly without overcrowding.
Cooking spoon or spatula: Essential for stirring ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even cooking and flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to create your Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan):

For the Shrimp

1.5 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, large – about 15-20 count per pound)
1 teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamed Corn

2 tablespoons salted butter
1/2 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
1 cup half-and-half
4 oz feta cheese (divided; it’s best to use a block of feta that you crumble yourself)

For Garnish

2 small limes
Fresh cilantro

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

Step 1: Cook Shrimp

Heat your large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add olive oil; it should run easily but not sizzle or burn.
Add the shrimp, sprinkling them with chili powder and salt. Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if necessary.
Cook the shrimp until pink, flipping once or twice; this should take about 3-4 minutes in total.
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make Creamed Corn

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1/2 cup of chopped onion. Lightly sprinkle with salt.
Cook on medium heat for about 3 minutes until softened while stirring occasionally.
Add minced garlic and continue cooking for another 2 minutes without burning; reduce heat if needed.
Stir in 1 cup of cooked corn kernels and add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Pour in the half-and-half, bringing it to a simmer before adding 3 oz of crumbled feta cheese.
Stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.

Step 3: Assembly

Squeeze the juice from half a lime into the sauce before adding back the cooked shrimp; reheat gently until warmed through.
Top with remaining corn, lime slices, and freshly chopped cilantro for garnish.
If desired, sprinkle extra chili powder or paprika on top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp and Creamed Corn—a dish that’s sure to impress!

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

Serving shrimp and creamed corn is a delightful experience that highlights the vibrant flavors of this dish. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Lime Wedges

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Over Rice

Serve shrimp and creamed corn over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

With Crusty Bread

Pair with crusty bread to help scoop up the creamy corn and shrimp, adding a satisfying crunch.

As Tacos

Use soft tortillas to create tasty tacos filled with shrimp, creamed corn, and your favorite toppings like avocado or salsa.

With Avocado Slices

Top with ripe avocado slices for a creamy contrast that complements the spiciness of the dish.

Garnished with Cheese

Add more crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra cheesy flavor that enhances each bite.

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

To make sure your shrimp and creamed corn turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will enhance the dish’s overall flavor. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slightly sweet smell.
Adjust spices: Tailor the chili powder and smoked paprika levels according to your personal heat preference. Start with less and add more if desired.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming, ensuring your shrimp get that perfect sear.
Let it simmer: Allowing the half-and-half mixture to simmer gently helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
Garnish generously: Fresh cilantro not only adds color but also brings brightness to each bite. Don’t skip it!

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

Shrimp and creamed corn pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the cream sauce perfectly.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the creaminess of the dish.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus can be grilled alongside for a smoky flavor.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a delightful addition that pairs well with both corn and shrimp.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with fresh herbs offers a nutritious contrast to the creamy dish.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool crunch that complements the warm flavors of shrimp and creamed corn.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes make for a hearty side that rounds out your meal nicely.
Mixed Green Salad: Simple mixed greens dressed lightly allow for a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shrimp and Creamed Corn, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and cook just until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
Not seasoning adequately: Without enough seasoning, your dish may taste bland. Be sure to sprinkle chili powder and salt evenly over the shrimp and throughout the creamed corn.
Using frozen corn: While convenient, frozen corn lacks the fresh flavor of cooked corn on the cob. Whenever possible, use fresh grilled or boiled corn for the best taste.
Skipping the lime juice: Lime juice brightens up the flavors in this dish. Don’t forget to squeeze in half a lime before serving to enhance the overall taste.
Crowding the pan: If you overcrowd your skillet with shrimp, they may steam instead of sear. Cook them in batches if necessary for that perfect texture.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

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

Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best flavor.

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

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until warm.
Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Shrimp and Creamed Corn ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamed corn mixture ahead of time. Store it separately from the shrimp and combine them just before serving for the freshest taste.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you prefer a different flavor profile or don’t have feta on hand, try using goat cheese or cream cheese as a substitute.

How do I know when shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a C shape; if they form an O shape, they may be overcooked.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Creamed Corn recipe is not only quick but also versatile enough to adapt to various tastes. With its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to impress at any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or vegetables! Give it a try today!

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