Creamy Cheesy Skillet Corn
Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Corn
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in corn and cook for 5–7 minutes until heated and lightly caramelized.
2. Make the Sauce
- Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
- Pour in heavy cream and mix until smooth.
3. Add the Cheese
- Stir in mozzarella and cheddar.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until melted and creamy.
4. Season
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Mix well.
5. Finish
- Sprinkle with Parmesan if using.
- Garnish with parsley or green onions.
- Serve immediately.
Tips
- Grill fresh corn before cutting off the kernels for a smoky flavor.
- Add cooked bacon for extra richness.
- Stir in diced jalapeños for some heat.
- A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors.
- Don’t overcook after adding cheese, or the sauce may become oily.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 11 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Values are estimates and vary depending on ingredients used.
Allergy Information
This recipe contains:
- Â Milk (butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan)
It is naturally:
- Gluten-free (if all packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free)
- Egg-free
- Soy-free (check cheese labels, as some brands may vary)
Storage
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months (the texture may become slightly grainy after thawing).
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen corn?
Yes. Thaw and drain it first, or cook it a few minutes longer if using from frozen.
Q: Can I use canned corn?
Yes. Drain it well before cooking.
Q: What cheese melts best?
Mozzarella provides a stretchy texture, while cheddar adds a sharper flavor. Monterey Jack or Gouda also work well.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Prepare up to a day in advance and reheat slowly with a splash of milk or cream.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra red pepper flakes.
Q: Can I make it lighter?
Use reduced-fat cream cheese, whole milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese.
Q: What goes well with creamy corn?
- Grilled chicken
- Steak
- Pork chops
- Barbecue ribs
- Roasted turkey
- Burgers
- Baked potatoes
