If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, the Shrimp and Creamed Corn with Spicy Feta Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. This vibrant meal brings together juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp and luscious creamed corn, all smothered in a creamy, tangy feta sauce with just the right amount of spice to wake up your taste buds. Inspired by the flavors of Mexican street corn, yet incredibly easy to prepare in just about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend treat. Every bite feels like a celebration—rich, fresh, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish stand out. From the smoky paprika to the creamy feta and the bright lime, every component enhances the overall experience.
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: Large shrimp pack a juicy, firm bite that balances the creamy textures.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds subtle heat and depth to the shrimp seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the shrimp and building the base of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Enriches the sauce with a silky mouthfeel and flavor richness.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Provides a sweet, savory foundation for the sauce.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Gives fragrant, warming notes to the dish.
- 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels: Fresh, lightly sweet corn brings great texture and seasonal brightness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky twist that complements the shrimp and feta superbly.
- 1 cup half-and-half: Creates the luxuriously creamy base for the sauce without being too heavy.
- 4 oz feta cheese, divided: Crumbled for melting into the sauce and garnishing for tangy creaminess.
- 2 small limes: Their juice adds zing and balances the richness beautifully.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped: For a fresh herbal kick and gorgeous color contrast.
How to Make Shrimp and Creamed Corn with Spicy Feta Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp to Perfection
Start by heating a large, high-sided skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Season the peeled shrimp with chili powder and salt, then cook them in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Sear the shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes, flipping once or twice, until they turn beautifully pink and opaque. This quick sear locks in their juiciness and builds the foundation of flavor for the dish. Set the cooked shrimp aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the chopped onion with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring carefully to prevent burning. These aromatic steps create the perfect savory backdrop that will complement the sweet corn and shrimp perfectly.
Step 3: Bring in the Corn and Smoky Paprika
Next, fold in 1 cup of your cooked corn kernels and sprinkle the smoked paprika over the mixture. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients, allowing the paprika’s rich smokiness to infuse the corn and buttery base, setting the stage for the creamy sauce that’s coming up next.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Feta Sauce
Pour in the half-and-half and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As it warms, crumble in 3 ounces of feta cheese and stir until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. This step transforms the dish, lending a tangy creaminess that’s utterly indulgent while still light enough to highlight the fresh shrimp and corn.
Step 5: Finish with Lime and Shrimp Reintroduction
Squeeze the juice of half a lime into the sauce to brighten all the rich flavors. Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the velvety sauce and heat through without overcooking. This final assembly is where the dish truly comes together in luscious harmony.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top everything with the remaining 1/2 cup of corn for extra texture, sliced limes for a pop of color and zest, and plenty of chopped fresh cilantro for a fresh herbal note. For an extra kick, sprinkle a little additional chili powder or smoked paprika if you like more heat.
How to Serve Shrimp and Creamed Corn with Spicy Feta Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro and sliced limes aren’t just pretty—they add brightness and contrast to balance the creamy, hearty base. Feel free to add some finely chopped red chili or a drizzle of chili oil if you want to kick up the heat even more. These final touches make your presentation vibrant and inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish is a superstar on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like a crisp green salad, garlic buttered bread, or even a zesty rice pilaf. The sides should be simple to let the rich flavors of the shrimp and creamed corn shine without competing.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive dinner party, serve this Shrimp and Creamed Corn with Spicy Feta Sauce Recipe over creamy polenta or toasted rustic bread slices for a casual yet elegant touch. Alternatively, fill a warm tortilla with the shrimp mixture and fresh greens for a festive taco variation. Presentation is all about highlighting the colorful, creamy goodness of the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Shrimp and Creamed Corn with Spicy Feta Sauce Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because the shrimp can become a bit firmer when refrigerated, it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but careful storage keeps those flavors intact for a quick next-day meal.
Freezing
Freezing is not highly recommended for this dish, as the texture of cooked shrimp and creamy sauce can change unfavorably. If you must freeze, separate the shrimp and sauce into airtight containers, freeze for up to a month, and understand that slight texture changes may occur upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently over low heat on the stovetop to prevent curdling the sauce or drying out the shrimp. Stir frequently and add a splash of half-and-half or water if the sauce thickens too much. Microwave reheating is possible but should be done in short bursts to avoid overheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the searing process and final texture.
Is there a dairy-free version of this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute the half-and-half with a coconut cream or almond milk blend and use a dairy-free feta-style cheese to maintain the creamy texture and tangy flavor.
How spicy is the Shrimp and Creamed Corn with Spicy Feta Sauce Recipe?
The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted to your preference by increasing or reducing the chili powder and adding extra chili flakes. The feta sauce balances the heat with its creamy tang.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
Yes, you can prepare the creamed corn and sauce base ahead of time, then quickly sear the shrimp and combine everything just before serving to keep the shrimp perfectly tender.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp, acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled rosé pairs beautifully, cutting through the creaminess and enhancing the fresh, zesty flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Shrimp and Creamed Corn with Spicy Feta Sauce Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its simple ingredients come together in a way that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself. Don’t hesitate to try it—you’ll find it’s a quick, flavorful dish destined to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Shrimp and Creamed Corn with Spicy Feta Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Description
Shrimp and creamed corn is a vibrant and easy one-pan summer dish that combines tender, spicy shrimp with a luscious, creamy feta cheese sauce inspired by Mexican street corn. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe bursts with fresh flavors from lime and cilantro, making it perfect for a quick dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (large, about 15–20 count per pound)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Creamed Corn Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels (from about 2 ears of grilled or boiled corn, divided)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 4 oz feta cheese, divided (preferably block feta, crumbled)
- 2 small limes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Warm a large 12-inch high-sided skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil to coat the pan evenly.
- Cook shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with chili powder and salt. Avoid overcrowding by cooking in two batches if necessary. Cook shrimp for 3-4 minutes, flipping once or twice, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté onion: In the same skillet, add salted butter and chopped onion with a pinch of salt. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Lower the heat if needed.
- Add corn and spices: Stir in 1 cup of the cooked corn kernels and smoked paprika until well combined with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the half-and-half and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add 3 oz of crumbled feta cheese and stir continuously until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy sauce.
- Add lime and shrimp: Squeeze the juice of half a lime into the sauce, then return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Gently reheat the shrimp in the sauce, stirring carefully to combine.
- Finish with toppings: Top the dish with the remaining 1/2 cup corn kernels, sliced lime wedges, and chopped fresh cilantro for garnish and added flavor.
- Optional seasoning: Sprinkle additional chili powder or smoked paprika on top for extra heat and color if desired.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh grilled or boiled corn kernels, but frozen corn can be substituted if needed.
- Cook shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Half-and-half can be substituted with heavy cream for a richer sauce or milk for a lighter version, but the texture may vary.
- Block feta cheese melts better than pre-crumbled feta, giving the sauce a creamier consistency.
- Adjust chili powder to your preferred spice level or substitute with smoked paprika if you want a milder dish.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the shrimp’s tender texture and creamy sauce.
