Hey y’all! If you’re looking to add a touch of Southern comfort to your next family gathering, look no further than this rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious Cream Corn with Bacon. This recipe brings together the sweetness of corn, the richness of cream cheese, and the irresistible flavor of crispy bacon. It’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds, and maybe even thirds! Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, a backyard barbecue, or just a cozy dinner at home, this Cream Corn is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal.
This Cream Corn with Bacon is a must-make for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, and you have a side dish that tastes like it took hours to make. Second, the combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with the savory crunch of bacon makes for a mouthwatering treat that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Lastly, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Once you try this dish, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen corn
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1″ cubes
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (be careful not to over salt)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Cream Corn with Bacon
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure the cream cheese is cut into 1″ cubes, the bacon is cooked and crumbled, and the frozen corn is ready to go.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large skillet or pan, combine the frozen corn, cream cheese cubes, heavy cream, butter, sugar, black pepper, and kosher salt.
- Cook Over Medium Heat: Place the skillet over medium heat. Stir the ingredients occasionally to ensure the cream cheese melts evenly and combines with the other ingredients. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
- Add Bacon: Once the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, stir in the crumbled bacon. Mix well to distribute the bacon evenly throughout the corn.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Your Cream Corn with Bacon is now ready to be served! Enjoy it hot as a delicious side dish that complements any meal.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Corn: If you have fresh corn available, by all means, use it! Just cut the kernels off the cob and follow the recipe as directed.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Extra Creamy: For an even creamier texture, add an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash more heavy cream.
- Cheese Variation: Try using a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Bacon Tips: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, then crumble.
- Herbs: Add fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or dill for a burst of freshness.
- Low-Sodium: Use unsalted butter and low-sodium bacon to control the salt content.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
- Vegan Twist: Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Make it a Meal: Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp to turn this side dish into a main course.
Variations
- Cheesy Corn: Add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy version.
- Mexican Style: Mix in 1 cup of salsa, 1 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese, and top with chopped cilantro.
- Garlic Parmesan: Add 2 cloves of minced garlic while cooking and finish with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Jalapeño Popper: Stir in 2 diced jalapeños and 1/2 cup of cream cheese for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Corn: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch.
- Smoky BBQ: Mix in 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- Italian Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes and 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella cheese.
- Loaded Corn: Top with shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chives, just like a loaded baked potato.
- Southwest Style: Add 1 cup of black beans, 1 cup of diced bell peppers, and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Sweet Corn: Increase the sugar to 1/4 cup and add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a sweeter, dessert-like version.
What to Serve It With
- Grilled Chicken: The creamy corn pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
- Barbecue Ribs: The sweetness of the corn complements the tangy BBQ sauce on the ribs.
- Fried Catfish: A Southern classic that goes great with the rich and creamy corn.
- Steak: Cream Corn with Bacon is an excellent side for a juicy, grilled steak.
- Pulled Pork: The creamy texture of the corn balances the savory pulled pork.
- Roast Turkey: Ideal for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal.
- Baked Ham: The sweetness of the corn enhances the flavor of glazed ham.
- Burgers: Serve this corn as a side dish at your next cookout.
- Roasted Vegetables: A great way to add more veggies to your plate.
- Mashed Potatoes: Double up on the comfort food with this creamy duo.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze Cream Corn with Bacon in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
How Much to Make for Family Gatherings
For a family gathering, plan on making enough Cream Corn with Bacon to serve each guest about 1/2 to 3/4 cup. For a group of 10 people, this recipe should be doubled. Adjust the quantities as needed based on the size of your crowd.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can make Cream Corn with Bacon up to 2 days in advance. Prepare the recipe as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of cream if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
Cream Corn with Bacon: A Southern Comfort Classic
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure the cream cheese is cut into 1″ cubes, the bacon is cooked and crumbled, and the frozen corn is ready to go.
- In a large skillet or pan, combine the frozen corn, cream cheese cubes, heavy cream, butter, sugar, black pepper, and kosher salt.
- Place the skillet over medium heat. Stir the ingredients occasionally to ensure the cream cheese melts evenly and combines with the other ingredients. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, stir in the crumbled bacon. Mix well to distribute the bacon evenly throughout the corn.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Your Cream Corn with Bacon is now ready to be served! Enjoy it hot as a delicious side dish that complements any meal.
