This Crockpot Creamed Corn is an example of silky textures and tangy flavors that transforms simple corn into a luxurious side dish. It's an effortless recipe that lets your slow cooker do all the work, creating a comforting addition to any meal.
Watching the ingredients meld into a rich, velvety finale is truly a culinary delight, as showcased in the sumptuous video guide. It's no wonder this dish is a cherished favorite for any festive occasion!
Crockpot Creamed Corn Recipe
Ingredients:
- Cream Cheese
- Whole Milk
- Heavy Cream
- Unsalted Butter (Salted butter is also fine, but adjust additional salt accordingly)
- Frozen Corn
- Granulated Sugar
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:
- If cream cheese isn’t available, you can use about 3 tablespoons of flour to thicken the mix, but the flavor may differ.
- Both whole milk and heavy cream are recommended for creaminess, but heavy cream can be omitted if desired.
- The recipe uses unsalted butter, but you can use salted butter; just be mindful of the added salt.
- The corn should be frozen to start; there’s no need to thaw it.
- Adjust the sugar to taste.
Tips and Tricks:
- Creamy Consistency: Avoid using canned corn to ensure the right creamy consistency.
- Spicing It Up: Consider adding a bit of black pepper, a dash of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or some chopped jalapenos for a little heat.
- Thickness Adjustments: If you want the creamed corn thicker, you can add flour or a cornstarch slurry (1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with an equal amount of water). Another method is to blend some cooked or thawed corn until smooth and then mix it into the creamed corn.
Preparation:
- Combine the ingredients in your crockpot.
- Cook on low, allowing the flavors to blend and the texture to become silky and creamy.
Variations:
- Low-fat Version: For a healthier alternative, substitute the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a mix of milk and low-fat cream cheese to achieve the creaminess without the added calories.
- Dairy-free Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of cow's milk and dairy-free butter alternatives. Though the taste profile will change slightly, these substitutes can offer a delicious, lactose-free version of the classic.
- Cheesy Twist: For cheese lovers, adding a cup of shredded cheddar or a mix of your favorite cheeses five minutes before serving can introduce a gooey, comforting dimension to the dish.
- Spicy Version: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who welcome an extra kick in their creamed corn, giving it a spicy twist that's sure to delight.
Pairing Suggestions:
This sumptuous Crockpot Creamed Corn is incredibly versatile, making it pair beautifully with a wide range of main dishes. For a comfort food feast, serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or barbecued ribs. It's also the perfect complement to Thanksgiving turkey, honey-glazed ham, or a vegetarian roast. For a balanced meal, add a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a crusty piece of bread to mop up the creamy goodness. The sweet and tender corn also pairs nicely with spicy dishes, providing a soothing contrast to heat.
Serving Suggestions:
- The creamed corn can be served directly from the crockpot. If it thickens too much upon standing, stir in a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- Pairs well with various Southern dishes, sweet potatoes, cornbread, stuffing, and mac and cheese.
Serving Size:
The Crockpot Creamed Corn recipe is perfectly tailored to serve a heartwarming portion for approximately 8-10 people, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or holiday meals. For those hosting a smaller party or seeking portions for a couple, the recipe can easily be halved, while for larger events, simply doubling the ingredients provides a generous amount without compromising on taste or texture. Remember to adjust the crockpot size accordingly to ensure even cooking.
Storing and Reheating:
- Allow cooling to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding milk or heavy cream if too thick.