Shrimp and Corn Skillet

The Shrimp and Corn Skillet is a celebration of bright, fresh flavors perfect for any time of year. Juicy shrimp are quickly sautéed in garlic and smoked paprika, while the corn adds a pop of natural sweetness, all pulled together by a buttery sauce with fresh herbs and a hint of lime.

This dish not only comes together effortlessly in one pan but also delivers a punch of color and taste that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or a small gathering with friends, this skillet meal offers a delicious and wholesome option that feels both hearty and refreshing at the same time.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add shrimp, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the corn. Cook for 5 minutes until the corn starts to caramelize slightly.
Return the shrimp to the skillet, add green onions, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes.
Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve warm, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges if preferred.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Corn Skillet

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. This Shrimp and Corn Skillet brings together the natural sweetness of corn, the tender juiciness of shrimp, and the rich, savory notes of garlic butter, all in one pan. It’s the kind of recipe that proves you don’t need hours in the kitchen or a mile-long list of ingredients to create a meal that’s vibrant, nourishing, and completely mouthwatering.

Whether you’re trying to keep things light during the summer or you’re looking for a quick comfort meal during cooler months, this dish fits seamlessly into your meal planning. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and high in protein, making it a smart choice for those following a low-carb, wholesome diet.

Ingredients Spotlight

Shrimp: The star of the show, shrimp is not only delicious but also packed with lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium. Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for best results, they cook quickly and stay tender.
Corn: Sweet and juicy, corn adds a crisp texture that balances beautifully with the tender shrimp. Fresh summer corn on the cob is ideal, but frozen or canned corn works wonderfully when fresh isn’t available.
Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the shrimp and corn with an irresistible aroma and depth of flavor. Don’t skimp on it!
Butter: A touch of butter enriches the dish, giving it a silky, savory finish that ties all the ingredients together.
Lime and Fresh Herbs: A splash of lime juice brightens the dish and fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add a pop of color and freshness.

Choosing the Right Shrimp

For the best flavor and texture, opt for raw, wild-caught shrimp if possible. They tend to have a sweeter flavor and firmer bite compared to farmed shrimp. You can use frozen shrimp as well, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Fresh or Frozen Corn?

While fresh corn kernels cut straight from the cob are unbeatable during peak season, frozen corn is an excellent substitute that makes this dish achievable year-round. If you’re using canned corn, drain and rinse it well to remove excess salt.

Tips for Success

Do Not Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook extremely fast. Once they turn pink and opaque, they are done. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp.
High-Heat Sear: Cooking the shrimp on medium-high heat gives them a slight sear, locking in their juices and flavor.
Layering Flavor: Sauté the garlic in the oil first to infuse the base of the dish, and caramelize the corn slightly to enhance its natural sweetness.

Variations and Customizations

Add Veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for an even heartier skillet meal.
Make it Spicy: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or extra crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle a handful of crumbled Cotija or feta cheese on top for a creamy, tangy contrast.
Creamy Option: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamy garlic butter sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp and Corn Skillet is wonderfully versatile. Serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to soak up the flavorful buttery sauce. You could also spoon it into warm tortillas for a quick and easy taco night, or simply serve it with a side of crusty bread to mop up every last bit of sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently over medium heat on the stovetop until just heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long as it can overcook the shrimp.
Freezing: It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze it if necessary. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Perfect Occasions for Shrimp and Corn Skillet

Weeknight Dinners: Quick, minimal cleanup, and family-approved.
Summer Parties: Fresh flavors make this dish a hit at backyard gatherings.
Romantic Dinner: Impress your special someone with an effortlessly elegant seafood meal.
Meal Prep: Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week.

Health Benefits of This Dish

High Protein: Shrimp are a lean, high-protein seafood option that supports muscle building and maintenance.
Vitamins and Minerals: Corn is rich in fiber, vitamins B and C, magnesium, and antioxidants.
Low-Carb Friendly: By skipping heavy starches and focusing on protein and vegetables, this dish fits into many low-carb lifestyles.

Fun Facts About Shrimp and Corn

Shrimp is the most popular seafood in the United States, Americans consume over a billion pounds every year!
Corn has been cultivated for more than 9,000 years and remains one of the world’s most important staple foods today.
Combining shrimp with corn is a tradition in many coastal cuisines, particularly in the American South where seafood boils often feature these two ingredients together.

Conclusion

The Shrimp and Corn Skillet is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. In less than half an hour, you can have a colorful, flavorful meal that’s hearty enough for a satisfying dinner yet light enough to leave you feeling energized. With endless ways to customize and serve it, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a fresh summer dish, or a new seafood favorite, this shrimp and corn combo is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

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