Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when families gather around the table to give thanks and enjoy a feast. And let me tell you, the side dishes are just as important as the turkey, if not more! One of my absolute favorites is this corn side dish that’s bursting with flavor and creaminess. Trust me, the combination of fresh corn kernels, rich heavy cream, and a hint of Parmesan cheese creates a delightful taste that you won’t forget. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! You really need to add this corn side dish recipe to your Thanksgiving menu. It’s bound to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Ingredients List
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels – I love using sweet, juicy corn for the best flavor! You can cut it straight from the cob or use frozen corn, if that’s what you have on hand.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is where the magic happens! The heavy cream adds that luscious, rich texture that makes this dish so creamy and dreamy.
- 1/2 cup butter – Unsalted butter is perfect for this recipe. It brings a lovely, buttery flavor without overpowering the corn.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Use freshly grated cheese if you can! It melts beautifully and adds a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the corn.
- 2 tablespoons sugar – Just a touch of sugar balances the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
- Salt to taste – This is key! Start with a little, and adjust based on your preference.
- Black pepper to taste – Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice bit of heat and complexity.
- Fresh parsley for garnish – A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only brightens the dish but also adds a pop of color and freshness!
How to Prepare Corn Side Dish Recipes Thanksgiving
Getting this corn side dish ready is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how quickly it comes together! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, creamy side that everyone will rave about.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by melting 1/2 cup of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t brown!
- Once the butter is melted, add in 4 cups of fresh corn kernels. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep things from sticking and to let that sweet corn flavor shine through.
- Next, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of sugar. The cream will add that wonderful richness, and the sugar will enhance the corn’s natural sweetness.
- Now, let the mixture cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to thicken up nicely, so don’t rush this step!
- Once it’s thickened, mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
- Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. It adds just the right touch of color and brightness!
And there you have it! In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering corn side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any gathering!
Nutritional Information
When you’re savoring this delicious corn side dish, it’s always good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 5g
Keep in mind, these values are just estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. But let me tell you, this dish is worth every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: Ready in just about 30 minutes, this corn side dish is perfect for busy Thanksgiving kitchens!
- Delicious flavor: The combination of sweet corn, creamy richness, and savory Parmesan creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Crowd-pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a favorite at any gathering.
- Versatile: While it’s an excellent addition to Thanksgiving, it pairs beautifully with any meal throughout the year.
- Vegetarian-friendly: A great option for meatless meals, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it!
Tips for Success
To make sure your corn side dish turns out absolutely perfect, here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way:
- Fresh is best: Always opt for fresh corn when possible! It really elevates the flavor. If you can’t find it, frozen corn works too—just make sure to thaw it first.
- Don’t rush the cooking: Letting the corn and cream cook down properly is key to getting that creamy texture. If it’s too runny, it won’t have the delightful richness you want.
- Taste as you go: Seasoning is everything! Don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You might even consider a pinch of cayenne for some added warmth!
- Garnish generously: A good sprinkle of fresh parsley not only makes it look inviting but also adds a fresh note to balance the richness.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment! Adding a bit of garlic or shallots when sautéing the corn can provide a lovely depth of flavor.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone with this delightful corn side dish!
Serving Suggestions
This creamy corn side dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses! I love serving it alongside a perfectly roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham for that classic Thanksgiving feel. It also complements grilled chicken or pork chops wonderfully, adding a sweet, rich flavor that balances savory meats. For a complete feast, consider pairing it with other sides like buttery mashed potatoes or green bean casserole. And don’t forget a fresh salad to brighten up your plate! Trust me, this corn dish will steal the show, no matter what you serve it with!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover corn side dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a cinch. You can either warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it in the microwave in a covered dish for about 1–2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through. If it seems a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of cream or milk to bring back that creamy texture!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh corn is my favorite for its sweetness and flavor, frozen corn works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it before using, and it’ll be just as delicious!
Can I make this corn side dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dish and let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. It’s a great way to save time on Thanksgiving Day!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind it may not be as rich and creamy. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut cream for a unique twist!
How do I know when the corn is cooked properly?
You’ll want to cook the corn until it’s tender but still has a slight crunch. The cream should thicken up nicely as it simmers, creating that luscious sauce to coat the corn.
What can I add to this dish for extra flavor?
Feel free to get creative! A bit of sautéed garlic or onions adds wonderful depth, or you can sprinkle in some fresh herbs like thyme or chives for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy experimenting!
Corn Side Dish Recipes Thanksgiving: 5 Irresistible Ideas
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious corn side dish perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add corn and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in heavy cream and sugar.
- Cook for another 10 minutes until thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh corn for best flavor.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: corn side dish recipes thanksgiving
