Welcome to your new favorite stress-free side dish! This Slow Cooker Creamed Corn recipe is designed for ultimate ease and delivers incredibly rich, creamy, and flavorful results every single time. Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, it’s the perfect addition to any meal, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive holiday spread. Best of all, it requires absolutely no oven space, making it a lifesaver during busy cooking days.
Effortless Elegance: The Ultimate Crock Pot Creamed Corn
Are you searching for a side dish that consistently steals the show without demanding hours of your precious time? Look no further! This Crock Pot Creamed Corn is a game-changer, offering a luxuriously creamy texture and a delightful, sweet-and-savory taste that appeals to everyone. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal preparation, your slow cooker handles the rest, transforming humble corn into an extraordinary dish.
Whether you’re hosting a grand Thanksgiving feast, a cozy Christmas dinner, or simply looking to elevate your everyday meals, this creamed corn effortlessly fits the bill. It’s a true comfort food classic, reimagined for modern convenience. For those who adore their side dishes as much as their main courses, prepare to be absolutely smitten with this incredibly easy and unbelievably tasty Crock Pot Creamed Corn. It’s so good, you might find yourself making it year-round!
Why This Slow Cooker Creamed Corn Will Be Your New Go-To
In the culinary world, finding a dish that balances exceptional flavor with minimal effort is like striking gold. Our Crock Pot Creamed Corn recipe achieves exactly that. It’s not just another side; it’s a revelation for busy home cooks and entertainment enthusiasts alike. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection:
- Unrivaled Ease: The slow cooker is your best friend here. Dump in your ingredients, set it, and forget it. No constant stirring, no worrying about scorching, and absolutely no stress. It’s the ultimate “set it and forget it” side dish.
- Incredible Flavor and Texture: We’re talking about rich, velvety creaminess combined with the sweet burst of corn kernels. The combination of milk, cream cheese, and butter melts down slowly, infusing every bite with a luxurious texture and deep, satisfying taste. A touch of sugar balances the savory notes beautifully.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From elaborate holiday dinners like Thanksgiving and Christmas to casual family barbecues or simple weeknight meals, this creamed corn fits seamlessly. It’s versatile enough to complement a wide range of main courses.
- Frees Up Oven Space: During holiday cooking, oven real estate is precious. Using a slow cooker for your creamed corn means one less dish competing for oven time, allowing you to focus on your roast, casseroles, and pies.
- Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for obscure items. All the ingredients are readily available at any grocery store, making this a practical and economical choice.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe has universal appeal. Kids love its sweetness, and adults appreciate its comforting richness. It’s a guaranteed hit at any potluck or gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamed Corn
Absolutely! While the slow cooker offers unparalleled convenience, you can certainly make a delicious creamed corn on the stovetop. The process involves gently simmering the ingredients in a large pot or Dutch oven over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until the desired creamy consistency is achieved and all ingredients are melted and well combined. For a detailed guide on the stovetop method, you can refer to this recipe.
Yes, frozen corn works wonderfully as a substitute for canned corn in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand; simply swap it out with the same quantity of canned corn. Using frozen corn typically won’t impact the overall cooking time significantly, as it thaws and cooks down beautifully within the slow cooker. Just ensure your corn is drained well if it’s canned, or if using frozen, you can add it directly.
There are many fantastic ways to add a little extra flair to your creamed corn! One of our favorites is incorporating cooked and crumbled bacon bits for a smoky, salty crunch. If you enjoy a touch of heat, consider stirring in some finely chopped jalapeños or even a dash of cayenne pepper. For an extra creamy kick, especially if available in your local grocery store, try using jalapeño-flavored cream cheese. Other delicious additions include a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, chives, or a hint of garlic powder.
Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully. If you’re preparing for a larger crowd or simply want more delicious creamed corn, you can easily double the ingredients. Just be sure to use a larger slow cooker, ideally a 6-quart or 7-quart model, to accommodate the increased volume. Keep in mind that when doubling the recipe, the cooking times may vary slightly. It’s always a good idea to monitor the corn during the last hour or so to ensure it reaches your desired creaminess and is thoroughly heated.
Leftover creamed corn stores remarkably well. Allow the corn to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the creamed corn in a pan on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through and all the creamy elements have melted and re-combined into a smooth texture. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through, for quick reheating.
Yes, this is an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for holiday meal prep! You can cook the creamed corn fully a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and then reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker on a “warm” setting before serving. This flexibility makes it an ideal option for reducing stress on big cooking days.
While fresh corn on the cob provides the most vibrant flavor when in season, canned or frozen corn is incredibly convenient and works perfectly for this slow cooker recipe. If using canned corn, choose whole kernel varieties and ensure they are very well-drained. If opting for frozen, any type of sweet kernel corn will do beautifully.
Key Ingredients for Unforgettable Creamed Corn
The magic of this slow cooker creamed corn recipe comes from a simple yet powerful blend of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that signature creamy texture and comforting taste. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Corn: We recommend using three (15 ounce) cans of whole kernel corn, thoroughly drained. Draining is key to prevent your creamed corn from becoming watery. While canned corn offers incredible convenience and consistent results, you can also use an equivalent amount of frozen corn (no need to thaw) or even fresh corn cut from the cob when it’s in season for an extra burst of freshness.
- Milk: One cup of milk forms the liquid base, helping to create the creamy sauce. Whole milk will yield the richest result, but 2% milk works just as well without compromising too much on flavor or texture.
- Granulated Sugar: A modest half tablespoon of granulated sugar is added to balance the savory notes of the corn and dairy, enhancing its natural sweetness without making it overly dessert-like. This is a classic touch in many creamed corn recipes.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning! Start with half a teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper, and then adjust to your personal taste after cooking. Freshly ground black pepper adds a lovely aromatic touch.
- Cream Cheese: This is the secret weapon for ultimate creaminess and a subtle tangy richness. An 8-ounce block of full-fat cream cheese, cut into cubes, will melt down beautifully to create a smooth, luxurious sauce that coats every kernel of corn.
- Unsalted Butter: One stick (or half a cup) of unsalted butter adds depth of flavor and even more richness to the dish. Cutting it into thin slices helps it melt evenly throughout the corn mixture.
These straightforward ingredients come together in the slow cooker to create a side dish that tastes far more complex than the effort required to make it. It’s truly a testament to how simple cooking can still produce extraordinary results!
Step-by-Step: How to Master Crock Pot Creamed Corn
Preparing this incredibly flavorful and creamy side dish couldn’t be simpler. Just follow these easy steps, and your slow cooker will do most of the heavy lifting, leaving you with more time to enjoy your meal and company.
Step 1: Prep the Corn
Begin by pouring your well-drained corn into the bottom of a 4-5 quart slow cooker. Ensuring the corn is thoroughly drained is crucial to prevent the final dish from being watery. If using frozen corn, simply add it directly without thawing.
Step 2: Add the Liquid Base
Next, pour the milk evenly over the corn in the slow cooker. The milk will contribute to the rich, creamy consistency of the final dish as it slowly cooks down with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Season and Stir
Generously sprinkle the granulated sugar, salt, and pepper over the corn and milk mixture. Then, gently stir all these ingredients together to ensure they are well combined. This initial stir helps distribute the seasonings evenly.
Step 4: Layer the Creamy Elements
Cut your block of cream cheese into small cubes and arrange them evenly over the corn mixture. Follow this by slicing the unsalted butter into thin pieces and layering them on top of the cream cheese. These dairy components will slowly melt and create that irresistible creamy sauce.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Crucially, do not stir after adding the cream cheese and butter. Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or on LOW for 4-5 hours. The “no-stir” approach during cooking allows the cream cheese and butter to melt slowly and create a perfectly smooth, uncurdled sauce. The longer cook time on low often results in a deeper flavor integration.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, give the mixture a good stir. The cream cheese and butter will have melted into a luscious, thick sauce, coating all the corn kernels. Serve your Crock Pot Creamed Corn warm and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors!
Serving Your Delicious Creamed Corn & Pro Tips
Once your Crock Pot Creamed Corn is perfectly cooked and stirred, it’s ready to be the star side dish on your table! Serve it piping hot for the best experience. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, consider garnishing your creamed corn with:
- A sprinkle of additional freshly ground black pepper for a subtle kick.
- Finely chopped fresh parsley, which adds a vibrant color and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
- Chopped fresh chives, offering a delicate oniony note that pairs wonderfully with the sweet corn.
Tips for Success:
To ensure your Crock Pot Creamed Corn turns out perfectly every time, keep these valuable tips in mind:
- Don’t Skip Draining: If using canned corn, drain it exceptionally well. Excess liquid can dilute the creamy sauce.
- Resist the Urge to Stir: During the initial cooking phase, it’s essential not to stir after layering the cream cheese and butter. This allows them to melt slowly and integrate smoothly into the sauce without curdling or separating. Stir only at the very end.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The half tablespoon of sugar provides a nice balance, but feel free to adjust it slightly based on your preference for sweeter or more savory creamed corn.
- Seasoning is Key: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving. A little extra can make a big difference in enhancing the overall flavor.
- Slow Cooker Size Matters: For a single batch, a 4-5 quart slow cooker is ideal. If doubling the recipe, definitely use a larger 6-7 quart slow cooker to avoid overfilling.
- Consistency Check: If your creamed corn seems too thick after cooking, you can stir in a splash of additional milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking on high to allow some moisture to evaporate, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Creamed Corn
This versatile Crock Pot Creamed Corn pairs wonderfully with a vast array of main courses, making it a fantastic choice for almost any meal. Here are some of our favorite pairings that truly shine with its creamy, sweet-savory profile:
- Holiday Roasts: It’s a classic companion for roasted turkey, baked ham, or beef roasts, adding a comforting, indulgent touch to your festive table.
- Grilled Meats: The sweetness of the corn beautifully complements smoky grilled chicken, pork chops, or even a juicy steak.
- Southern Comfort Food: Serve it alongside fried chicken, meatloaf, or pulled pork for a true taste of Southern hospitality.
- BBQ Spreads: Creamed corn is a natural fit for any barbecue, pairing well with ribs, brisket, and other smoky delights.
- Fish & Seafood: Believe it or not, creamed corn can also be a delightful side for pan-seared fish or shrimp, offering a creamy counterpoint.
- Vegetarian Options: It can even stand alone as a light vegetarian meal with a side salad or crusty bread, or complement dishes like black bean burgers.
No matter what you serve it with, this Crock Pot Creamed Corn is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a memorable part of your meal.
Explore More Delicious Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed the ease and flavor of this Crock Pot Creamed Corn, you’ll love exploring other comforting and simple recipes. We’ve curated a selection of dishes that are perfect for family meals, potlucks, and special occasions. Dive into more deliciousness:
- Classic Stovetop Creamed Corn (for those who prefer the traditional method)
- Hearty Southern Black Eyed Peas
- Savory Southern Cornbread Dressing
- Quick & Easy Fried Corn
- Crispy Homemade Corn Fritters
- Comforting Cornbread Chicken Casserole
- Flavorful Frito Corn Salad
Recipe Card: Crock Pot Creamed Corn
Crock Pot Creamed Corn
This Crock Pot Creamed Corn is the perfect easy side dish made with simple ingredients to serve during the holidays or anytime! No oven required!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 3 (15 ounce) cans of corn, drained well
- 1 cup milk
- ½ Tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 8 ounce block cream cheese
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
- Optional garnishes: additional freshly ground pepper, finely chopped parsley or chives
Instructions
- Pour drained corn into the bottom of a 4-5 quart slow cooker.
- Pour the milk on top of the corn.
- Sprinkle on sugar, salt and pepper. Stir mixture to combine.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes then layer evenly on top of the corn.
- Cut the butter into thin slices and layer on top of the cream cheese.
- Without stirring, cover the slow cooker and cook for 2-3 hours on high or 4-5 hours on low.
- Once cooking has completed, stir mixture and serve warm.
- Top with additional pepper, finely chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Notes
- Frozen corn can be used.
- You can add bacon or jalapeños for some crunch or kick.
- This can be made on the stovetop; see the FAQ section above for more details.
- We do not recommend freezing as the texture will change significantly.
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Nutrition (Estimated per serving)
Calories: 150 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 4g |
Protein: 6g |
Fat: 12g |
Sodium: 360mg |
Fiber: 0.03g |
Sugar: 4g
Nutritional Disclaimer
This nutritional information is an estimate. “The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through your preferred online nutritional calculator. Calories and other values can vary depending on the brands used and preparation methods.