When the holidays arrive, every family looks for that one special dish that ties the entire meal together. Something comforting, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. This Stovetop Creamed Corn with Parmesan fits that description perfectly. It’s buttery, rich, and bursting with the natural sweetness of corn, elevated by a savory hint of Parmesan cheese.
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a grand Christmas dinner, a cozy Thanksgiving gathering, or simply want a warm, homestyle side for your weeknight meal, this creamed corn recipe will win hearts and plates alike.
Why You’ll Love This Creamed Corn Recipe
There are endless reasons to fall in love with this stovetop creamed corn:
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Quick and easy: No baking, no complicated steps—just a few ingredients and one pot.
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Luxuriously creamy: The perfect balance of butter, cream, and cheese creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Savory twist: Parmesan adds a nutty depth that makes it stand out from traditional creamed corn.
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Perfect for holidays: Complements roasted turkey, chicken, beef, or even vegetarian mains.
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Crowd-friendly: This dish easily doubles or triples for larger gatherings.
Ingredients for Stovetop Creamed Corn with Parmesan
To create this velvety side dish, you’ll need:
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4 cups of corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup whole milk
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
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Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Choosing the Best Corn
The flavor of your creamed corn starts with your choice of corn. Here are some tips to get the best results:
Fresh Corn
If it’s corn season, use fresh kernels cut straight from the cob. They bring unmatched sweetness and texture. Boil the cobs for a few minutes before cutting off the kernels to make them tender.
Frozen Corn
Frozen corn is a fantastic year-round option. It retains its natural sweetness and texture. Thaw and drain before cooking.
Canned Corn
If you’re in a hurry, canned corn works too. Just be sure to drain and rinse to remove excess sodium and achieve a fresher flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the creamiest stovetop corn ever:
Step 1: Make a Creamy Base
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant—this step thickens your creamed corn without making it heavy.
Step 2: Add Cream and Milk
Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth consistency. Let it simmer gently for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add Corn and Seasonings
Stir in the corn kernels, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as the corn absorbs the creaminess.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish
Once the mixture is thick and creamy, stir in the cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Then sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until everything blends into a luscious, velvety sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the creamed corn to a serving bowl and top with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes.
Texture Tips for Perfect Creamed Corn
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For a smoother texture, blend half of the corn before adding it to the skillet. This gives a thicker consistency while maintaining bits of whole corn for texture.
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For extra richness, replace half of the milk with more heavy cream.
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For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk only, skipping the cream cheese.
Flavor Variations
Once you master the base recipe, you can easily adjust the flavors to suit your tastes or meal theme.
Garlic Parmesan Creamed Corn
Add 2 minced garlic cloves when melting the butter. The garlic infuses the sauce with a subtle savory aroma that pairs beautifully with Parmesan.
Cheddar and Parmesan Blend
Mix in ¼ cup of sharp cheddar along with the Parmesan for a bolder, cheesier flavor.
Herbed Creamed Corn
Add 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon of dried Italian herbs for an earthy, aromatic twist.
Spicy Kick
Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that cuts through the creaminess.
Serving Ideas
This stovetop creamed corn is a versatile side that pairs well with a variety of main dishes:
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Roast turkey or chicken: Its buttery flavor complements the roasted, savory notes of poultry.
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Beef tenderloin or prime rib: Adds a creamy, sweet contrast to rich meats.
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Grilled or baked salmon: Enhances the mild, delicate flavor of fish.
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Vegetarian mains: Pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or mushroom Wellington.
You can even serve it as part of a holiday buffet, alongside mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best parts about this dish is how easily it can be made ahead or reheated.
To Make Ahead
Prepare the recipe up to the point where you add the cheese. Allow it to cool, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop and stir in the Parmesan just before serving.
To Store Leftovers
Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in a sealed container. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezing Tips
Cream-based dishes don’t always freeze perfectly, but you can freeze this one if needed. Let it cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
How to Make It Extra Special for the Holidays
When you want to make your creamed corn shine on a festive table, presentation and small details matter:
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Top with freshly shaved Parmesan just before serving for a gourmet touch.
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Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley to add color contrast.
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Serve in a decorative ceramic bowl that retains heat and adds elegance to your table setting.
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Add a touch of nutmeg or white pepper for subtle depth and a holiday aroma.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Avoid these pitfalls:
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Overheating the sauce: High heat can cause cream to curdle. Always cook over medium or low heat.
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Skipping the roux: Without the flour-butter base, your sauce won’t thicken properly.
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Using pre-grated cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds richer flavor.
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Neglecting to stir: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
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Calories: 280
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Protein: 7g
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Fat: 19g
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Carbohydrates: 20g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 5g
This makes for a hearty yet balanced side dish that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.
FAQ
Can I make creamed corn without heavy cream?
Yes. You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. Add an extra tablespoon of cream cheese or a small spoon of cornstarch slurry to thicken if needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can use plant-based butter and unsweetened oat or cashew cream. Substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Can I use cornmeal or canned cream-style corn instead?
Canned cream-style corn can be used for extra smoothness, but it’s sweeter and softer. For the best flavor, mix it with regular kernels. Avoid cornmeal, as it changes the texture completely.
Can I bake this instead of cooking it on the stovetop?
Yes, after preparing the mixture, transfer it to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Can I double the recipe for a large family dinner?
Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients and use a larger pot. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
What can I serve with creamed corn?
It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, mashed potatoes, or vegetarian casseroles.
The Magic of Simple Ingredients
Sometimes the most comforting dishes are the simplest. Butter, cream, corn, and cheese come together in a harmony of flavors that taste like nostalgia and celebration. Every spoonful of this Stovetop Creamed Corn with Parmesan delivers the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and savory—an instant family favorite.
Perfect for Every Occasion
While it’s often seen as a holiday side dish, don’t reserve this creamed corn just for special occasions. It’s wonderful on a weeknight with grilled chicken or as part of a Sunday family meal.
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Christmas Dinner: Pair with roast turkey, green beans, and garlic mashed potatoes.
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Thanksgiving Feast: A cozy complement to stuffing, gravy, and cranberry sauce.
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Easter Brunch: Serve alongside baked ham alternatives or roasted vegetables.
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Everyday Meals: A quick side for BBQ nights or cozy dinners at home.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant side dish that brings comfort and joy to your table, Stovetop Creamed Corn with Parmesan is your answer. It’s rich but balanced, creamy but not cloying, and so easy that it’s almost effortless.
Every bite feels like a warm hug—one that reminds you of family dinners, laughter, and the joy of good food made with love.
Serve it once, and you’ll find it becoming a holiday tradition in your home for years to come.
