Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Shrimp and creamed corn is a delightful dish that brings together the sweet flavors of corn and the savory taste of shrimp in a creamy, spicy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. In just 30 minutes and using only one pan, you can create a meal that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick meal after work, this shrimp and creamed corn dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of chili powder, smoked paprika, and feta cheese creates a rich and delicious sauce.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less clean-up means more time to enjoy your meal and relax after eating.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out shrimp for chicken or add additional vegetables to suit your taste.
- Seasonal Freshness: Using fresh corn highlights the best of summer produce, ensuring each bite bursts with sweetness.

Tools and Preparation
To prepare shrimp and creamed corn, you’ll need some essential tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or frying pan: Provides ample cooking space for even heating of ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and safe.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate amounts of spices for perfect seasoning every time.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, large – about 15-20 count per pound)
For the Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
For Flavor Enhancement
- 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
For Creaminess
- 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: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary. Chop the onions, mince the garlic, and cook your corn if not using canned corn.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add chopped onions. Sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Shrimp and Seasoning
Add the shrimp to the skillet along with chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir well to coat the shrimp evenly with the spices. Cook until the shrimp turns pink, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Corn and Cream
Stir in the cooked corn kernels along with half-and-half. Mix gently until everything is well combined. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Finish with Feta Cheese
Crumble half of the feta cheese into the mixture; stir until melted into the sauce. Reserve the remaining feta for garnish.
Step 6: Serve
Squeeze fresh lime juice over each serving and garnish with cilantro and remaining feta cheese before serving hot.
Enjoy your delicious shrimp and creamed corn dish!
How to Serve Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Serving shrimp and creamed corn can be as simple or as fancy as you like. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors.
With Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
- Green Onions: Slice green onions for a mild crunch and added freshness.
With Lime Wedges
- Lime Slices: Serve lime wedges on the side to add a zesty kick when squeezed over the dish.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Steamed Rice: Spoon the shrimp and creamed corn over fluffy white rice for a hearty meal.
- Quinoa: Serve it over quinoa for a nutritious twist that’s gluten-free.
In Tacos
- Soft Corn Tortillas: Fill warm tortillas with shrimp and creamed corn for delicious street-style tacos.
With Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Offer slices of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite delightful.
How to Perfect Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Perfecting your shrimp and creamed corn recipe is easy with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.
- seasoning: Don’t be shy with spices; they enhance the flavor. Adjust chili powder according to your heat preference.
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh corn when in season for the best sweetness. If fresh isn’t available, frozen corn works well too.
- Cook shrimp correctly: Avoid overcooking by removing shrimp from heat once they turn pink and opaque.
- Balance creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk.
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top adds texture and enhances flavor.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding diced avocados or jalapeños for extra flair.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
Pairing side dishes with shrimp and creamed corn can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients. Try zucchini or bell peppers.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and contrasts nicely with the creamy texture.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins complement the flavors perfectly while adding a comforting touch.
- Grilled Asparagus: Simple grilled asparagus spears provide an elegant touch with minimal effort.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that everyone loves.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime ties in beautifully with the main dish’s flavors.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach drizzled with olive oil makes a healthy addition full of nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making shrimp and creamed corn, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish every time.
- Using frozen shrimp: Fresh shrimp has a better texture and flavor. Always opt for fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results.
- Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to taste and adjust the chili powder and salt to achieve the perfect balance.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Aim for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink.
- Ignoring the creaminess factor: Using low-fat alternatives can result in a less creamy sauce. Opt for half-and-half or full-fat options for a richer taste.
- Skipping the lime juice: Lime adds freshness that balances the richness of the dish. Don’t forget to squeeze fresh lime juice before serving.
- Not using fresh herbs: Dried herbs can’t replicate the brightness of fresh cilantro. Always use fresh herbs for garnishing to elevate your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store shrimp and creamed corn in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
- Portion out leftovers into freezer-safe containers.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just be aware that texture may change slightly.
Reheating Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pairs well with Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)?
Cornbread or a light green salad complements this dish perfectly, adding texture and freshness.
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
Yes, canned corn works well. Drain it before adding it to maintain proper texture.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder during cooking for an additional kick.
Is Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan) healthy?
This dish is balanced with protein from shrimp and nutrients from corn. Use less butter or half-and-half for a lighter version if desired.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and creamed corn is not just a quick meal; it’s versatile enough for summer gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. Give this delightful recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is!

Shrimp and Creamed Corn (30 Minutes, One-Pan)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Shrimp and creamed corn is a quick and delicious dish that combines the sweetness of fresh corn with succulent shrimp, all enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce. This one-pan wonder takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. With its vibrant flavors from chili powder and smoked paprika, this recipe will impress your family and friends without taking hours in the kitchen. Perfectly paired with rice or served in tacos, it’s a versatile dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 4 oz feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping onions and mincing garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and butter. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic for an additional minute.
- Add shrimp, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook until shrimp turns pink (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in corn kernels and half-and-half; let simmer for 5 minutes until heated through.
- Crumble half the feta into the mixture until melted; reserve the rest for garnish.
- Serve hot with lime juice and cilantro on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 366
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
Keywords: For added heat, incorporate diced jalapeños. Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for different variations. Fresh corn enhances sweetness; frozen corn can be used as an alternative.