Shrimp and Corn Skillet

The Shrimp and Corn Skillet is a vibrant and flavor-packed Southern-inspired meal that brings together the sweetness of fresh corn, the smokiness of bacon, and the succulence of perfectly cooked shrimp. Creamy, savory, and just a touch spicy, this dish is a weeknight dinner winner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

This recipe offers the perfect balance of textures and bold flavors. It’s ideal for when you want something comforting but quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re using fresh summer corn or frozen kernels, this skillet meal will shine on your dinner table, making it a go-to for any season.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 4 slices of bacon, chopped

• 4 ears of fresh corn (or 3 cups corn kernels)

• 1/2 cup chopped green onions

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.

2. Drain excess bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet. Add olive oil and butter.

3. Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

4. To the same skillet, add the corn and green onions. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until corn is tender and slightly charred.

5. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.

6. Return shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 1 more minute until heated through.

7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Creamy Shrimp and Corn Skillet with Bacon & Green Onions

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines the sweetness of corn, the smoky crispness of bacon, and the tender bite of shrimp all in one pan. This Shrimp and Corn Skillet recipe is a true Southern-style comfort food with bold, layered flavors and creamy textures that come together in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or entertaining guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor. With simple, fresh ingredients and a skillet on hand, you can transform everyday staples into a hearty, satisfying meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.

The Heart of the Dish: Fresh Ingredients and Balanced Flavor

At the core of this recipe are fresh, whole ingredients that shine with minimal processing. The shrimp offer a lean source of protein while also adding a natural brininess that balances beautifully with the sweetness of corn kernels. Whether you’re using fresh summer corn or high-quality frozen kernels, the texture and sweetness add a wonderful contrast to the smokiness of bacon and the richness of a light cream sauce.

Bacon adds a deep, savory, and smoky base that infuses the entire dish with rich flavor. It’s more than just a garnish in this recipe—it’s a key component that helps build flavor right from the beginning. The rendered bacon fat acts as a flavorful cooking medium for the shrimp, giving them a golden sear and enhancing their natural taste.

Green onions bring a fresh, slightly sharp bite to cut through the creaminess, and their vibrant color adds visual appeal. They also provide a subtle peppery flavor that complements both the shrimp and the bacon. The addition of heavy cream ties everything together, offering a luxurious mouthfeel that coats every ingredient in the skillet without being overly heavy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. It’s naturally gluten-free and high in protein, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. You can easily make it low-carb by skipping the addition of starches like rice or pasta, or you can stretch it into a fuller meal by serving it over creamy polenta, grits, or a bed of fluffy rice.

This skillet meal is also a fantastic way to use up leftover corn from a summer cookout or to incorporate frozen corn in colder months when fresh ears aren’t in season. It’s proof that frozen ingredients, when used properly, can be just as flavorful and satisfying as fresh ones.

Plus, the entire dish comes together in one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash. That makes it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick and rewarding without creating a kitchen mess. The short ingredient list also makes it budget-friendly and accessible even for beginner home cooks.

The Flavor Profile: Cajun-Inspired Comfort

This dish takes a page from Cajun and Southern cooking traditions, using simple seasoning to bring bold flavor. Smoked paprika is the star here, it lends a warm, earthy depth with just a hint of heat. Cayenne pepper is optional but recommended if you like a little kick; it brings just the right level of spice without overpowering the dish.

The creamy base adds indulgence and smoothness, while the smokiness of the bacon and the sweetness of the corn create a contrast that keeps your palate interested with every bite. The shrimp absorb all of these flavors during cooking, becoming tender and juicy while still maintaining their lightness.

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp and Corn Skillet

This dish is wonderfully versatile in how it can be served. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Over Rice or Quinoa: Spoon the shrimp and corn mixture over a bed of jasmine rice, brown rice, or fluffy quinoa for a filling, protein-rich meal.

• With Grits or Polenta: For a true Southern-inspired dish, serve this over creamy grits or buttery polenta.

• In Tacos or Wraps: Use leftovers to fill soft corn tortillas or wraps for an easy lunch the next day.

• With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a piece of artisan sourdough or toasted garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

• On Its Own: Enjoy it as a light, low-carb skillet meal by itself for a naturally gluten-free option.

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

Want to make it your own? Here are some optional additions and substitutions:

• Veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the corn mixture for more color and nutrition.

• Cheese: Stir in a bit of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan just before serving for extra creaminess.

• Herbs: Top with fresh basil, thyme, or dill instead of parsley for a flavor twist.

• Protein Variations: Swap shrimp for scallops, diced chicken breast, or even tofu for a different spin.

• Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or Cajun seasoning for a bolder taste.

Storage and Leftovers

This skillet dish stores well and is just as delicious the next day. Simply let it cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

However, seafood like shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, so reheating more than once is not recommended. If you’re planning to make it ahead of time, consider cooking the corn and bacon mixture first and adding the shrimp just before serving.

Make It Seasonal or Festive

This recipe is a fantastic showcase for fresh summer corn, making it ideal for seasonal menus and special gatherings. It’s also a great choice for holiday meals when you’re looking for something a little different from the usual turkey or ham. The bright flavors and creamy texture feel luxurious and festive, especially when paired with seasonal sides like roasted sweet potatoes, cranberry salad, or skillet green beans.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly usually 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them rubbery.

• Use fresh corn if available: Cutting corn directly off the cob will give you the juiciest and sweetest kernels. If using frozen corn, make sure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the skillet.

• Let the bacon crisp fully: Rendering the fat until the bacon is crispy adds a crunchy texture and a deeper flavor to the dish.

• Deglaze the pan if needed: After cooking the shrimp and bacon, a splash of white wine or broth can help lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet.

Conclusion

This Creamy Shrimp and Corn Skillet is more than just a quick dinner, it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and simplicity. From the sweet pop of corn to the smoky richness of bacon and the tender juiciness of shrimp, every bite is a comforting reminder of how a few well-chosen ingredients can create culinary magic. Whether you’re serving it up for a special gathering, a weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers flexibility, flavor, and satisfaction all in one pan. Give it a try and bring a little Southern warmth to your kitchen tonight.