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Creamed corn with cream cheese is that rich comforting side dish my family craves every holiday and it only needs a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker. I love how the natural sweetness of corn blends with the silky smoothness of cream cheese for a dish that always disappears fast.
I served this at my very first Friendsgiving and everyone asked for seconds and the recipe. It is now a must every year.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Frozen corn: Both white and yellow varieties will work. Select bags with no extra additives so you get pure corn sweetness and snap.
- Cream cheese: Full fat block cheese works best for ultimate creaminess. Make sure it is softened so it melts smoothly into the corn.
- Butter: Choose real butter for rich taste. Cut into small cubes for even melting.
- Sugar: Just a bit to coax out the corn’s natural sugars. Use pure cane sugar for best flavor.
- Salt: Heightens the sweet and creamy flavors. Fine sea salt melts in better than regular table salt.
How to Make It
- Prep the Slow Cooker:
- Spray the inside of a three quart slow cooker with cooking spray to avoid sticking and help with easy clean up.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Pour in all the frozen corn carefully to distribute evenly across the base. Add the softened and cubed cream cheese on top followed by the cubed butter. Sprinkle the sugar and salt evenly over everything.
- Combine and Cook:
- Briefly stir just so the top ingredients are not clumped in a single spot. Cover with a tight fitting lid and set to cook on low for about forty five to sixty minutes or until all the ingredients are soft and blended.
- Finish the Creamed Corn:
- Once everything is bubbly and the cream cheese and butter are fully melted use a large spoon to mix until the corn is luxuriously creamy with no visible streaks of cheese.
- Serve:
- Spoon the hot creamed corn into a serving bowl while still warm. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra salt or cracked pepper if desired.
Cream cheese is my star here. Its creamy tang sets this creamed corn recipe apart from all others and reminds me of countless childhood Sunday dinners where it was always polished off first.
Flavor Boosters
If you do not have frozen corn you can use well drained canned corn or even fresh corn off the cob in summer. Dairy free cream cheese and plant based butter make easy swaps if needed. A pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika adds extra savoriness if you like a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Creamed corn with cream cheese steals the show next to baked chicken barbecue or any holiday ham. It also makes a silky layer spooned over mashed potatoes or tucked into a shepherds pie. I even use a little to thicken chowders or toss with hot pasta for a quick lunch.
Creative Twists
In warm months I love adding fresh chives or basil. Around Thanksgiving I sprinkle in a little crushed red pepper and top with fried onions for crunch. Sometimes I stir in diced sweet peppers or cooked bacon for an extra homey touch.
For richer depth substitute half the butter with a little heavy cream swirled in at the end. Use high quality frozen corn to maximize natural sweetness and pop of the kernels. A slow cooker with a proper seal cooks most evenly and keeps the creamed corn from drying out.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh corn can be substituted. Simply cut kernels from the cob and use an equal amount by weight. The result will be a bit fresher in flavor.
- → How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat creamed corn gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if needed.
- → Is there a way to make it ahead?
Yes, creamed corn can be made a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat before serving for best texture.
- → Can I add other seasonings or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try stirring in black pepper, chopped jalapeño, chives, or shredded cheese to customize the flavor to your liking.
- → What dishes pair well with this?
This creamy corn side complements roasted meats, grilled poultry, or holiday favorites like ham and turkey. It's also great with vegetarian mains.