This quick comforting skillet side dish is perfect for any meal, combining heat, sweetness, and a rich, satisfying creaminess in every bite of corn.
Featured Standouts
Jalapeño
Jalapeno is the perfect heat for this recipe. Id perfectly mellows into the sweet and cream providing a fresh, bright note. When charred, it develops a deep, smoky complexity that elevates the entire dish.
Sweet Yellow Corn
Sweet yellow corn is the heart of the recipe. Fresh, sweet kernels are highly recommended for the best flavor and juicy texture, though high-quality frozen corn is an acceptable substitute.
Heavy Cream
The critical component for luxurious texture and richness. It binds the ingredients together, creating a velvety sauce. If heavy cream is available half and half is always a great option.
Butter
Butter is used as a finishing element to add sheen and depth of flavor. The cold pat at the end results in a velvety rich finish that can be replicated without it.
Green Onions (Scallions)
More than just decoration, green onions offer a sharp, fresh counterpoint to the creamy, rich base the green onions help round out the sharpness of the jalapenos.
TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE BEST JALAPEÑO CREAMED CORN SKILLET
Charring the Jalapeños is Mandatory
Before adding the jalapeños to the skillet, lightly char them over an open flame (or in a hot, dry pan). This simple step introduces a smoky layer that adds significant complexity and a beautiful speckled appearance to the final dish.
Choose Fresh Corn
While canned or frozen corn can work, using fresh corn kernels cut straight from the cob during peak season will deliver a superior natural sweetness and a satisfying pop of texture that store-bought alternatives can’t match.
Low and Slow Simmering
When the heavy cream is added, maintain a low simmer only. Boiling the cream rapidly can cause it to “break” or separate, resulting in a greasy or grainy sauce instead of a smooth, emulsified one. Patience is key for a creamy outcome.
The Cold Butter Finish (Mounting with Butter)
Just before serving, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in a small pat of cold butter. This technique, known as monter au beurre in French cuisine, will instantly melt into the sauce, giving it a beautiful, restaurant-quality gloss and adding a final layer of richness.
Inclusive Adaptions
For Easier Prep
Save time by using pre-diced jalapeños. Remember, however, that pre-diced versions usually do not include the seeds and membranes, so if you want heat, you may need to add a pinch of chili flakes.
Dairy-Free Option
The heavy cream can be successfully swapped with lactose-free heavy cream alternatives or full-fat coconut cream (note: coconut cream will impart a slight coconut flavor).
Make it Mild
To significantly reduce the heat while retaining the jalapeño flavor, be meticulous about removing all seeds and white membranes from the pepper before dicing. The heat is almost entirely concentrated in these parts.
Ergonomic Kitchen Solution
For cooks with limited wrist strength or mobility concerns, using a lightweight nonstick skillet instead of a heavy cast iron pan is recommended for easier stirring and maneuverability.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE
Nonstick skillet
Chef knife
Cutting board
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups
ENJOY THIS RECIPE WITH
GRILLED RIBEYE & ALLEPO & SHALLOT CHIMICHURRI
ABOBO GRILLED FAJITAS & PEPPERS
CAST IRON RIBEYE + BLUE CHEESE BUTTER
SIMILAR INGREDIENTS TO
Steak & Eggs Cups
CHORIZO, SWEET POTATO & EGG TAQUITOS
BACON, JALAPENO & CHEESE EGG CUPS
Recipe
JALAPEÑO CREAMED CORN SKILLET
Ingredients
Method
- Roast the Jalapeños: Place the diced jalapeños in a dry cast iron skillet over medium heat. Cook them, rolling them around the pan occasionally, until the outsides begin to cook and darken slightly.
- Make the Base: Transfer the roasted jalapeños to a blender. Add the green onions, cilantro, and half of the corn. Blend until the mixture is chunky.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat in the skillet. Return the chunky corn mixture to the pan. Add the remaining corn, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
- Thicken and Finish: Simmer the mixture for about 20 minutes, or until it has slightly thickened. Stir in the butter and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.