Name: Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp That Will Wow You
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb Raw Shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 tsp Chili Powder (for a warm kick; adjust based on your spice preference); 0.25 tsp Salt (to season); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for cooking); 2 tbsp Butter (salted or unsalted); 0.5 cup Onion (chopped yellow or white); 5 cloves Garlic (minced); 1.5 cups Cooked Corn (fresh is best, but frozen can save time); 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (for a smoky undertone); 1 cup Half-and-Half (for creaminess; can substitute with heavy cream or coconut milk); 4 oz Feta Cheese (crumbled; offers rich flavor); 2 small Limes (for zesting and juicing); Cilantro (fresh chopped for garnish)

The sizzling sound of shrimp hitting a hot skillet brings back a whirlwind of summer memories, where vibrant street fairs fill the streets with laughter and the aroma of fresh ingredients. Today, I’m excited to share my twist on this culinary delight: Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp. This quick and cheerful dish is not only a protein-packed meal, but it also comes together in just one pan—say goodbye to endless cleanup! With its rich feta sauce and sweet corn, it’s perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and festive gatherings with friends. Are you ready to spice up your evening with flavors that transport you to a sun-soaked fiesta?

Why Is This Dish a Must-Try?

Ease of Preparation: This one-pan wonder is incredibly simple to whip up, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The creamy feta sauce paired with sweet corn and succulent shrimp creates a delightful and comforting flavor experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Customizable Options: Feel free to explore your creative side by swapping shrimp for sautéed vegetables and adding in fresh herbs—like cilantro or mint—to amplify the freshness.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and vibrant presentation, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration.

Quick Cooking: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without sacrificing quality. For more quick options, check out our Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa.

Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• Raw Shrimp – 1.5 lb, peeled and deveined; the fresher, the better!
• Chili Powder – 1 tsp for a warm kick; adjust based on your spice preference.
• Salt – 0.25 tsp to season; remember that feta will add extra saltiness.

For Cooking

• Olive Oil – 2 tbsp for cooking; feel free to use avocado oil as a substitute.
• Butter – 2 tbsp, salted or unsalted; essential for sautéing aromatics.

For the Base

• Onion – 0.5 cup chopped yellow or white for sweetness; enhances overall flavor.
• Garlic – 5 cloves minced for robust flavor; a must for any delicious dish!

For the Corn Mixture

• Cooked Corn – 1.5 cups; fresh is best, but frozen corn can save time.
• Smoked Paprika – 1 tsp for a smoky undertone that elevates the dish.

For the Creamy Sauce

• Half-and-Half – 1 cup for creaminess; you can substitute with heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Feta Cheese – 4 oz crumbled; this adds richness and a salty punch—block feta offers better texture.

For Freshness and Garnish

• Limes – 2 small for zesting and juicing; this will brighten up the whole dish.
• Cilantro – Fresh chopped for garnish; parsley can work in a pinch, but cilantro’s flavor is unmatched in this recipe.

This Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp recipe is all about bringing bold flavors to your table with ease! Enjoy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp

Step 1: Cook Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Season 1.5 pounds of raw peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon of chili powder and 0.25 teaspoon salt. Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 0.5 cup of chopped yellow or white onion, sautéing for about 3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Then, stir in 5 minced garlic cloves, continuing to sauté for another 2 minutes, allowing the mixture to become aromatic and golden.

Step 3: Combine Corn
Add 1.5 cups of cooked corn and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the skillet. Stir everything together, cooking until the corn is heated through, about 2-3 minutes. You should see the corn glistening, blending well with the sautéed onions and garlic, making it the perfect base for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Make Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of half-and-half over the corn mixture, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese until it melts and integrates smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. This rich sauce envelops all the flavors while ensuring a comforting consistency.

Step 5: Finish Dish
Squeeze the juice of 2 small limes into the sauce, brightening the flavors beautifully. Return the shrimp to the skillet, gently mixing them into the sauce for about 1 minute. Add any remaining corn along with lime slices and freshly chopped cilantro for garnish. Ensure everything is well combined and heated through, adjusting seasoning if necessary.

Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this delicious dish to suit your taste preferences!

Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with sautéed bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty, plant-based delight. This twist keeps the vibrant flavors while accommodating diet preferences.
Add Spice: For a kick, toss in diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce. It adds an exciting heat that spices up this comforting dish, perfect for the adventurous palate.
Creamy Alternative: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of half-and-half for a creamy, dairy-free version. This substitution infuses your dish with a rich, tropical essence that pairs beautifully with the corn.
Tropical Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple to the corn mixture for a sweet pop of flavor. This delightful addition will create a fresh and juicy contrast to the savory elements, making every bite a vacation on a plate.
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint to enhance the dish’s flavor profile. Fresh herbs bring brightness and complexity that elevate your meal to new heights.
Crispy Topping: Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch! The texture contrast creates a fun dining experience and visually enhances the dish. It’s a simple addition that makes a world of difference.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate chorizo or smoked sausage into your dish for a deeper, smoky flavor. This protein boost not only changes the savory profile but also adds a satisfying heartiness that complements the shrimp exquisitely.

For more delicious seafood options, consider trying our Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa or our flavorful Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños that will surely delight your taste buds!

Storage Tips for Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze portions of the creamy Mexican street corn and shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months for easy meal prep.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of half-and-half to revive creaminess.

Serving Suggestions: This dish can be paired with zesty lime rice or quinoa to create a complete meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the corn mixture (corn, onions, garlic, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent browning. The shrimp can also be seasoned and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure to cook them fresh to keep that delightful texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the mixture, stir in the creamy sauce, add the shrimp, and heat until everything is warmed through. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp

Elevate your meal by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides that enhance its vibrant flavors and textures.

Zesty Lime Rice: A refreshing side that adds citrusy brightness, perfectly balancing the creaminess of the shrimp dish.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Their crunch offers a contrasting texture, making each bite even more enjoyable. Serve with a side of salsa for added flavor.
Simple Cucumber Salad: The lightness of crisp cucumbers and tangy dressing brings a cool, refreshing element that pairs wonderfully with the dish’s richness.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the succulent shrimp while introducing an element of healthy fat to the meal. Enhance with a sprinkle of sea salt and lime.
Grilled Vegetables: Offer a colorful array of flavors and textures; the smokiness mingles beautifully with the sweet corn and shrimp, creating a harmonious plate.
Margaritas: Toast to flavor with this cocktail! The lime and salt enhance the meal’s zestiness while providing a festive spirit to any gathering.
Tres Leches Cake: For a sweet finale, indulge in this moist dessert! Its light texture and sweet profile create a delightful contrast to the savory main course.

Expert Tips for Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp

Freshness Matters: Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture; if frozen, ensure they are completely thawed to avoid rubbery results.
Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking shrimp, give them enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, impacting flavor.
Season Wisely: Remember that feta adds salt to the dish; taste the creamy sauce before adding more salt to achieve the right balance.
Customize Spiciness: If you love a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the creamy Mexican street corn and shrimp for extra heat.
Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh herbs! Garnishing with cilantro or parsley adds a refreshing note that complements the richness of the dish.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for a quick meal later.

Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh raw shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If you must use frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking to avoid a rubbery texture.

How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This allows you to enjoy the dish again without sacrificing flavor.

Can I freeze Creamy Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing it up, which will help maintain its delicious flavors.

What if my sauce isn’t creamy enough?
If you find your sauce isn’t as creamy as you’d like, simply add a splash more of the half-and-half while gently heating the dish. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you have lactose intolerance, consider using a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk instead of half-and-half and leave out the feta. Additionally, ensure any hot sauce or seasoning blends used are gluten-free if that’s a concern for you.

Can I customize the recipe with other vegetables?
Very! Feel free to swap out shrimp for sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for a vegetarian version. You can also add spinach or kale in the final steps for extra nutrition and color.