Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet

The fusion of succulent shrimp with the creamy depth of feta-infused corn makes this skillet dish an irresistible choice for warm-weather dinners. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn, the dish incorporates smoky paprika, zesty lime, and chili powder for a bold kick. With every bite, you’ll get a mix of textures and contrasts: juicy shrimp, sweet corn, and rich creaminess that balance perfectly. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or even for serving guests, this one-pan wonder is as beautiful as it is flavorful. Grilled corn brings an extra dimension of flavor, while fresh cilantro and lime slices elevate the final presentation. Serve it on its own or pair with jasmine rice or tortillas for a more substantial meal. Either way, you’re in for something unforgettable.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (15–20 count per pound)

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons salted butter

• ½ cup chopped onion

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (grilled or boiled, from about 2 ears)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 cup half-and-half

• 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled (preferably from a block)

• 2 small limes (1 juiced, 1 sliced)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat a 12-inch high-sided skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.

2. Season shrimp with chili powder and salt. Cook in the skillet (in batches if necessary), flipping once, until pink—about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions for 3 minutes until softened.

4. Add garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Stir in 1 cup of corn and smoked paprika.

6. Pour in the half-and-half and bring to a simmer. Add 3 oz of feta and stir until melted into a creamy sauce.

7. Squeeze in the juice of half a lime.

8. Return shrimp to the skillet and reheat gently.

9. Top with remaining ½ cup of corn, lime slices, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder or paprika if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 455 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Origin and Inspiration Behind Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet

Shrimp and creamed corn may sound like a surprising pairing at first, but it draws deep inspiration from classic Southern and Mexican culinary traditions. This dish captures the soul of Mexican street corn—also known as elote—with its creamy, spicy, and tangy elements, while combining it with succulent shrimp to create a main course that’s as elegant as it is comforting.

The idea came from two cravings: the sweetness of grilled summer corn, and the richness of feta cheese melting into a spicy cream sauce. Adding shrimp makes it a full, satisfying meal. This recipe is a modern fusion of bold Latin flavors with the laid-back, hearty style of Southern cuisine.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This recipe hits the sweet spot between comfort food and elevated dining. You get the lusciousness of creamed corn balanced by the boldness of chili powder and smoked paprika, all hugged by a smooth, velvety feta cheese sauce. It’s one of those meals that tastes indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare—just 30 minutes from start to finish.

Here’s what makes this dish stand out:

• One-pan simplicity: Perfect for busy weeknights. Everything comes together in a single skillet, meaning less cleanup.
• Seasonal and fresh: When corn is in season, nothing beats the natural sweetness of fresh kernels, especially when grilled.
• Protein-packed: Shrimp is high in lean protein and low in calories, making this dish as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Versatile: It can be served solo, over rice, with tortillas, or even spooned onto a bed of sautéed greens.

Flavor Profile and Textures You’ll Love

Every bite delivers a burst of flavor. The shrimp are juicy and seasoned with smoky spices that give them a mild heat. The corn, slightly charred or caramelized from the grill, offers a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy, creamy feta.

The sauce is the star of the show—rich but not too heavy, thanks to the use of half-and-half instead of full cream. Lime juice adds brightness and acidity, keeping everything in perfect balance. A sprinkling of fresh cilantro at the end adds color and a final burst of freshness.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

• Shrimp: High in protein and a source of key nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12, shrimp are lean and cook in minutes. Their mild flavor makes them a perfect base for spices.
• Corn: Especially when grilled, corn adds sweetness and depth. It’s rich in fiber, antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, and B vitamins.
• Feta Cheese: Unlike heavier cheeses, feta is naturally lower in fat and brings a salty, tangy kick to the sauce. It melts beautifully in the cream, thickening the sauce without needing flour.
• Half-and-Half: Offers richness without being overly heavy. You get a creamy texture without the full calorie load of heavy cream.
• Smoked Paprika and Chili Powder: These spices give the dish warmth and complexity, nodding to Mexican flavors without overpowering the shrimp.
• Cilantro and Lime: Essential finishing touches that brighten the entire dish and tie together all the flavor notes.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t overcook the shrimp. They only need 3-4 minutes in total. Once they turn pink and slightly curled, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery quickly.
• Use fresh corn if available. Fresh corn on the cob, especially when grilled, enhances the overall flavor profile. If you’re using canned corn, make sure to drain it well and give it a quick sauté for extra flavor.
• Crumble your own feta. Pre-crumbled feta often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Sauté garlic carefully. Burned garlic can turn bitter. After the onion softens, add the garlic and stir constantly until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes max.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is wonderfully flexible and can be styled in multiple ways depending on the occasion:

• Over rice: A classic choice that turns this dish into a full meal. Jasmine or basmati rice both pair beautifully.
• With warm tortillas: Perfect for scooping up creamy corn and shrimp for a casual, taco-style presentation.
• Alongside a green salad: Balance the richness of the cream sauce with a light, crisp salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette.
• With roasted vegetables: Asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini complement the corn’s sweetness and shrimp’s savoriness.
• On toast or crusty bread: This may sound unusual, but spooning the creamed corn and shrimp mixture over toasted sourdough is absolutely divine.

Variations to Try

Want to customize the recipe to fit different tastes or dietary needs? Here are some creative spins on the classic:

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for more heat.
• Vegan Version: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu and use plant-based cream and feta alternatives.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes for an added dose of nutrition and color.
• Cheese Swap: Cotija or goat cheese can replace feta for a twist in texture and flavor.
• Grain Bowl Style: Serve everything over cooked farro, quinoa, or barley for a hearty grain bowl.

Why It’s Great for Entertaining

Beyond its flavor and ease, this dish also makes an excellent impression. It looks beautiful in the skillet—shrimp nestled in golden corn, garnished with vibrant green cilantro and lime wedges. It’s casual enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for guests.

Plus, you can prep the components ahead. Cook the shrimp and make the sauce separately, then assemble and heat through just before serving. That way, you’re not stuck in the kitchen when company arrives.

Kid-Friendly Notes

If you’re cooking for a family with young eaters, this dish is surprisingly kid-friendly. You can tone down the chili powder and paprika, or even leave them out of the shrimp seasoning. The sweetness of the corn and creaminess of the sauce appeal to many children’s palates. Serve with rice or tortillas and let them build their own plates.

Storage and Leftover Magic

This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of half-and-half or milk to loosen the sauce. The flavors deepen as they sit, so the leftovers may taste even better the next day.

What shouldn’t be done, however, is freezing. Cream-based sauces often break when frozen and thawed, leading to a grainy texture.

Leftovers also make an amazing topping for:

• Baked potatoes
• Grilled polenta rounds
• Flatbreads or naan
• Omelets or savory crepes

Conclusion

Shrimp and Creamed Corn Skillet is the kind of recipe that stays with you. It’s comforting but not heavy, flavorful but not complicated. It’s got just the right balance of spice, tang, and richness to keep things interesting, yet it remains approachable enough to become a household staple.

Whether you’re celebrating corn season in summer, looking for a hearty dinner in winter, or hosting friends for a casual dinner party, this dish rises to the occasion. It’s fast, flavorful, flexible, and fabulous—what more could you want?