We’ve always been fans of Babe’s Creamed Corn Recipe, a comforting classic that hails from American Southern roots and brings a touch of creamy nostalgia to any table. It’s the perfect side dish that elevates simple ingredients into something irresistible with its sweet corn kernels enveloped in rich, velvety sauce.
What we love most is how easy it is to whip up at home capturing that homemade charm. Let’s explore why this recipe has won our hearts and could become a staple in yours too.
Ingredients
In our exploration of Babe’s Creamed Corn Recipe, we start by assembling the key ingredients that transform humble corn into a creamy Southern delight. These simple yet flavorful components ensure a rich texture and nostalgic taste we’ll cherish in every bite.
- Fresh corn kernels: 4 cups (about 6 ears of corn, shucked and kernels cut off the cob, or use thawed frozen corn for convenience)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (melted to sauté and add a silky base)
- Yellow onion: 1 medium (finely chopped to provide a subtle sweetness and depth)
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons (used as a thickener to create the signature creamy sauce)
- Whole milk: 1 cup (warmed slightly to blend smoothly and achieve the perfect consistency)
- Heavy cream: ½ cup (added for extra richness and a velvety finish)
- Granulated sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste for balanced seasoning)
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon (freshly ground for a hint of spice that complements the creaminess)
Equipment Needed
To bring our Babe’s Creamed Corn recipe to life with ease and precision, we rely on a few key tools that ensure smooth preparation and consistent results. These items help us handle everything from chopping fresh ingredients to simmering the creamy sauce.
- Large Skillet or Saucepan: We use a 10-inch or larger nonstick skillet to evenly cook the corn kernels and create the rich, creamy base without sticking.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Essential for stirring and folding the ingredients, this tool prevents scorching while blending flavors seamlessly.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife allows us to finely chop the yellow onion quickly and safely.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so we recommend a set of standard measuring cups for liquids like milk and cream, along with measuring spoons for smaller quantities such as salt and sugar.
- Medium Bowl: We use this for mixing dry ingredients like flour and sugar before incorporating them into the pan, keeping our workflow organized.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s create Babe’s Creamed Corn—a Southern classic that delivers a rich, creamy texture with sweet corn flavors in every bite. We will walk you through the steps to ensure your version is as comforting and nostalgic as the original.
Prep
Before we start cooking, we prepare our ingredients to ensure everything comes together smoothly. Begin by shucking and removing the kernels from 4 ears of fresh corn, yielding about 2 cups; use a sharp knife on a cutting board to carefully cut them off for even pieces. Next, finely chop 1 small yellow onion into ¼-inch dice to release its aromatic essence. In a medium bowl, measure and whisk together 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and black pepper to create a dry mix that will thicken our sauce perfectly. Finally, measure out 1 cup of whole milk and ½ cup of heavy cream, and set aside 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. These steps set the stage for a velvety, flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the corn.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we move to the stovetop to build the creamy magic of Babe’s Creamed Corn. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter until it sizzles and releases a nutty aroma. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it turns translucent and softens to enhance the dish’s savory base. Sprinkle in the flour mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring vigorously to form a golden roux that adds body without lumps. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid clumps, then add the corn kernels and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a luscious, creamy consistency that coats the corn kernels beautifully—watch as the mixture transforms into a comforting, golden delight with a subtle sweetness that evokes cherished memories.
Serve
Once cooked, we serve Babe’s Creamed Corn warm to showcase its irresistible creaminess and elevate any meal. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for added zest. This side pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables, serving 4-6 people as a nostalgic highlight that brings smiles to the table—aim for immediate serving to preserve its warm, velvety texture, making it a staple for family gatherings.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the beauties of our Babe’s Creamed Corn Recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We can prepare this comforting Southern classic in advance without sacrificing its rich, creamy texture or nostalgic flavor, allowing us to enjoy it at family gatherings or weeknight dinners with ease.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
To streamline our cooking process, we recommend prepping the key components of Babe’s Creamed Corn Recipe a day in advance. Start by shucking and cutting fresh corn kernels from the cobs, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This keeps the corn’s sweet, crisp essence intact. Similarly, finely chop the yellow onion and store it separately in a sealed bag to prevent odor transfer, ensuring it’s ready for sautéing when we begin cooking.
Cooking the Full Recipe in Advance
We can fully prepare Babe’s Creamed Corn Recipe up to 2 days ahead for optimal freshness and flavor. After following the step-by-step instructions, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will maintain its velvety sauce and tender kernels. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors—such as the subtle sweetness from granulated sugar and the savory notes from sautéed onion—to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Storage and Shelf Life Guidelines
Proper storage is crucial to preserve the dish’s creamy appeal. Here’s a quick overview of how long our Babe’s Creamed Corn Recipe lasts and the best practices:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Use an airtight container to prevent drying; stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce. |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers; label with the date to track freshness. |
Reheating for Perfect Results
When it’s time to serve, we can reheat our Babe’s Creamed Corn Recipe effortlessly while keeping it irresistibly smooth and warm. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon to avoid scorching and maintain the luxurious creaminess. If using the microwave, heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between, and add a splash of whole milk if needed to restore the original silky consistency. This ensures every bite delivers that comforting, nostalgic experience we love, with the sweet corn kernels bathed in a rich, golden sauce.
Conclusion
We’ve cherished exploring Babe’s Creamed Corn as a timeless favorite that brings comfort to the table.
It’s more than a recipe—it’s a way to connect over simple joys and flavorful bites.
Trust us, once you whip it up it’ll quickly become our go-to for effortless, heartwarming meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Babe’s Creamed Corn Recipe?
Babe’s Creamed Corn is a classic Southern side dish that turns simple ingredients like fresh corn into a rich, creamy delight. It’s known for its comforting, nostalgic flavor, perfect for family meals, and easy to make at home with basic kitchen tools.
What ingredients are needed for Babe’s Creamed Corn?
You’ll need fresh corn kernels, unsalted butter, yellow onion, all-purpose flour, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients create a creamy sauce that enhances the corn’s natural sweetness, making it a simple yet flavorful dish.
What equipment is required to prepare Babe’s Creamed Corn?
Essential tools include a large skillet or saucepan for cooking, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, a cutting board and chef’s knife for prep, and measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. These items ensure smooth preparation and great results.
How do you prepare Babe’s Creamed Corn step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients: shuck corn and chop onion. Sauté onion in butter, add flour to make a roux, then stir in milk, cream, and corn. Cook until thick and creamy, season with sugar, salt, and pepper. Serve warm as a side to meats or veggies for a comforting meal.
Can you make Babe’s Creamed Corn ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients like corn and onion a day in advance to save time. You can fully prepare the dish up to two days ahead; it allows flavors to meld. Store in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for two months, then reheat gently on the stove to maintain creaminess.
How should you store and reheat Babe’s Creamed Corn?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally with a splash of milk if needed, to keep the creamy texture intact.
What are some serving suggestions for Babe’s Creamed Corn?
Serve this creamy side warm with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a holiday feast. It’s a nostalgic addition to family gatherings, garnished with black pepper for extra flavor, and pairs well with Southern classics like fried chicken or barbecue.