Crock Pot Creamed Corn: The Ultimate Easy & Delicious Side Dish

Discover the secret to making the most incredibly easy and undeniably delicious creamed corn right in your slow cooker. This Crock Pot Creamed Corn recipe is more than just a side; it’s a culinary revelation that will quickly become a cherished favorite for any meal, from simple weeknight dinners to elaborate holiday feasts. Forget about complicated steps or last-minute oven scrambles – this dish offers a delightful blend of simplicity and phenomenal flavor that will impress everyone at your table.

Why Slow Cooker Creamed Corn is a Must-Try Side Dish

In a bustling kitchen, especially during major holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, oven and stovetop space is often at a premium. This is precisely where your trusty slow cooker becomes an invaluable asset, transforming mundane side dish preparation into an effortless experience. Our Crock Pot Creamed Corn recipe allows you to reclaim valuable cooking space and precious time, letting your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. The “set it and forget it” nature of slow cooking ensures consistent, perfectly cooked results with minimal supervision, allowing you to focus on other culinary masterpieces or simply enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Beyond convenience, this recipe cleverly utilizes readily available ingredients, particularly frozen corn, which offers a myriad of benefits. Stocking your freezer with fruits and vegetables is a smart strategy for efficient meal planning and budget management. Contrary to outdated beliefs, frozen produce frequently boasts a nutritional profile that is equal to, or in some cases, even superior to, its fresh counterparts. A comprehensive study conducted by the University of California, Davis, in collaboration with the Frozen Food Foundation, revealed that frozen fruits and vegetables often retain more vitamins and antioxidants. This is especially true when compared to fresh produce that has been transported long distances and stored for several days before reaching your plate. Freezing effectively acts as “nature’s pause button,” locking in nutrients at their peak freshness. This ensures you can enjoy the vibrant flavor and essential nutrients of corn year-round, without the worry of spoilage or the fluctuating prices of out-of-season fresh ingredients.

Embracing frozen ingredients not only streamlines your cooking process but also contributes to less food waste and greater economic efficiency. Having a well-stocked freezer provides immense flexibility, eliminating the need for last-minute grocery runs and reducing mealtime stress. You can purchase your favorite produce when it’s in season and at its best price, then enjoy it months later. This Crock Pot Creamed Corn recipe perfectly exemplifies how simple, readily available ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular and deeply satisfying.

The Simplicity of Deliciousness: Essential Ingredients for Creamy Corn

One of the many charms of this Crock Pot Creamed Corn recipe lies in its incredibly simple and accessible ingredient list. You’ll likely find most of these staples already in your kitchen, making spontaneous cooking sessions a breeze. With just a handful of ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a side dish that tastes like it took hours of intricate preparation.

Core Ingredients:

• Frozen Corn Kernels: The undeniable star of our dish! Using frozen corn not only saves significant prep time by eliminating husking and cutting but also ensures a consistently sweet and tender texture. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand; just add it directly to the slow cooker, and it will cook perfectly.
• Cream Cheese: This is the secret weapon for achieving that luscious, thick, and wonderfully creamy texture that defines great creamed corn. As it slowly melts, it generously envelops each kernel in a rich, tangy embrace, adding unparalleled depth to the dish.
• Butter: For an added layer of richness and a silky smooth mouthfeel. Butter complements the natural sweetness of the corn and the subtle tang of the cream cheese perfectly, contributing to the overall indulgent quality.
• Granulated Sugar: A touch of sugar is crucial to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn, balancing the savory and tangy notes introduced by the cream cheese and butter. You can adjust the amount to suit your personal preference, making it sweeter or more savory.
• Salt and Black Pepper: These are essential seasonings that elevate and bring out all the beautiful flavors in the dish. Always season generously to taste, making sure to balance the sweetness and creaminess.

Optional Enhancements and Garnishes:

While this creamed corn is undeniably delicious on its own, it’s also a highly adaptable dish that invites culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with these additions to customize the flavor profile and visual appeal:

• For a Savory Kick: Introduce crispy, crumbled bacon bits for a smoky, salty counterpoint. Finely diced onion (sautéed briefly before adding for enhanced flavor) or a sprinkle of chopped green onions can add a fresh, pungent bite.
• Herbaceous Notes: Fresh herbs can beautifully brighten the dish. Consider adding finely chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for aromatic complexity. Chives also provide a delicate oniony flavor and a lovely pop of green color.
• Cheesy Goodness: A final dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving can add an extra layer of savory depth and a delightful umami finish.
• Extra Creaminess: If you prefer an even looser or more liquid consistency, stir in about a cup of whole milk or half-and-half during the last hour of cooking. This will thin out the cream and add another dimension of dairy richness.

This recipe is designed for maximum flexibility. Whether you’re preparing a small family meal or hosting a large festive gathering, you can easily double or even triple the quantities with excellent results. For larger batches, ensure you layer the cream cheese, butter, and sugar throughout the corn to guarantee an even distribution of flavors and a consistently creamy outcome.

Essential Equipment for Perfectly Creamy Slow Cooker Corn

The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimal equipment requirements. All you truly need is a reliable slow cooker to bring this creamy dream to life, and a serving bowl to present it.

• Slow Cooker: A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is ideal for preparing this recipe, comfortably accommodating the ingredients and allowing for even cooking. We highly recommend using a model equipped with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting once the cooking time is complete. This invaluable feature prevents overcooking and keeps your creamed corn at the perfect serving temperature until you’re ready to dish it out, offering unparalleled convenience and peace of mind.
• Serving Bowl: A sturdy and attractive serving bowl is perfect for presenting your beautiful creamed corn to your guests, adding to the overall dining experience.

How to Prepare Your Irresistible Crock Pot Creamed Corn

Creating this delectable side dish is surprisingly straightforward, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Here’s a quick overview of the simple steps. For precise measurements and a detailed printable recipe card, please refer to the recipe section at the bottom of this article.

1. Combine Ingredients: Begin by placing the frozen corn kernels directly into the bottom of your slow cooker. Evenly distribute the cubed cream cheese, cubed butter, and granulated sugar over the corn. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Stir and Cook: Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined and the corn is somewhat coated with the dairy components. Secure the lid on your slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 4 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 2 hours.
3. Final Stir and Serve: For best results and to ensure ultimate creaminess, give the mixture another good stir halfway through the cooking time to distribute the melted ingredients evenly and prevent any settling. Stir once more just before serving to achieve a perfectly smooth and cohesive texture.

That’s it! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly creamy side dish ready to steal the show with its rich taste and inviting aroma. This hands-off approach makes it perfect for busy days or when you need to free up stove or oven space.

Preparation & Storage Guidelines for Maximum Convenience

Make-Ahead Marvel:

One of the most fantastic attributes of Crock Pot Creamed Corn is its remarkable make-ahead potential. This dish is perfectly suited for preparing in advance, which is a huge advantage when you’re planning for busy weeknights or orchestrating large holiday gatherings. You can effortlessly cook a batch a day or two before your event, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen even further, while simultaneously saving you precious time and reducing stress on the actual day of serving. The convenience of having a delicious side dish ready to go is truly a game-changer.

Proper Storage for Leftovers:

To ensure your leftover creamed corn remains fresh and delicious, it is crucial to store it correctly. Allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place the sealed container in the refrigerator, where it will maintain its quality and be safe to enjoy for up to three days. This makes it an excellent candidate for meal prepping, providing a flavorful and comforting side throughout your week.

Freezing for Extended Enjoyment:

Yes, you can absolutely freeze cooked creamed corn! For optimal flavor and texture preservation, the University of Georgia’s National Center for Home Food Preservation generally recommends blanching corn before freezing. While our slow cooker method prepares the corn differently, freezing the cooked dish is still a viable option. Once the creamed corn has cooled completely, transfer it to freezer-safe bags or airtight containers, leaving a little headspace to allow for expansion. Properly stored, your frozen creamed corn can last for approximately six months. To use, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Effortless Reheating Instructions:

Reheating your cooked and previously frozen (and thawed) leftovers is incredibly simple. For individual portions, the microwave is your most convenient tool: heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each interval, until the corn is warmed through to your liking. For larger quantities, gently reheat the creamed corn on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can return it to your slow cooker on the “warm” setting until it reaches your desired temperature. If the creamed corn appears too thick or dry after reheating, you can easily stir in a splash of milk, cream, or even a bit of chicken broth to restore its perfect creamy consistency.

Customizing Your Crock Pot Creamed Corn: Delicious Recipe Variations

This basic creamed corn recipe serves as a wonderful and versatile canvas for culinary creativity. Don’t hesitate to adapt it to suit your specific dietary needs, enhance its flavor profile, or simply experiment with new tastes.

• Corn Options Beyond Frozen: While frozen corn kernels are highly recommended for their convenience and consistent quality, you can certainly use fresh corn cut from the cob (about 6-8 ears for a 24-ounce equivalent) or even canned corn (ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess liquid). Keep in mind that fresh corn might require a slightly longer cooking time to reach desired tenderness, while canned corn may yield a softer texture.
• Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, making it a wonderful addition to any meat-free meal. To easily adapt it for vegan diets, simply substitute the cream cheese and butter with your favorite high-quality plant-based cream cheese and vegan butter alternatives. Always verify that all other ingredients, such as sugar, are certified vegan if adhering to strict dietary guidelines.
• Gluten-Free Assurance: All the core ingredients in this delightful dish – corn, cream cheese, butter, sugar, salt, and pepper – are inherently gluten-free. Nevertheless, it’s always considered best practice to double-check the product labels on the specific brands you plan to use, especially for processed items like cream cheese, to ensure no hidden gluten-containing additives are present.
• Adjusting Serving Sizes with Ease: The base recipe, using a 24-ounce bag of frozen corn, typically yields eight generous servings. It is remarkably easy to scale down the recipe for smaller, more intimate meals, or to significantly scale it up for larger crowds. For substantial family gatherings or potlucks, I have successfully prepared this dish using as much as 6 to 8 cans or multiple large bags of frozen corn. When preparing larger batches, remember to layer your cream cheese, butter, and sugar evenly throughout the corn to guarantee consistent flavor and creaminess in every bite.
• Embracing a Spicy Twist: For those who appreciate a kick of heat, consider adding finely diced green chilies (such as mild Anaheim or hotter Hatch chilies) or minced jalapeños (deseeded and deveined for less intense heat) to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. This Southwestern-inspired variation introduces a delightful zing that beautifully contrasts with the creaminess.
• Sugar-Free Alternative: The recipe includes a small amount of added granulated sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn. If you are aiming for a sugar-free option or prefer a less sweet profile, you can easily replace the white sugar with your preferred sugar substitute or simply omit it entirely. The corn’s natural sweetness and the richness of the dairy will still provide a satisfying flavor.

Expert Tips for the Best Crock Pot Creamed Corn

Achieving perfectly creamy and flavorful slow cooker creamed corn is surprisingly simple, especially when you incorporate these helpful tips into your preparation process:

• Flexibility with Corn Quantity: One of the most forgiving and practical aspects of this creamed corn recipe is its incredible adaptability to varying quantities. If you find yourself with unexpected guests, need to accommodate a larger crowd, or simply wish to stretch the dish further, you can easily add an extra bag of frozen corn or another can of corn (ensuring it’s well-drained if canned) during the cooking process. While this might result in a slightly thinner creamy coating than initially planned, rest assured the overall flavor will remain outstanding and deeply satisfying.
• The Importance of Stirring: Don’t underestimate the power of a good stir! The initial thorough mixing ensures that the cream cheese, butter, and sugar are well distributed among the corn kernels from the outset, preventing them from simply sitting on top. The halfway stir is crucial; it helps to break up any clumps of melting dairy, guarantees a smooth, even consistency throughout the cooking process, and helps prevent scorching at the bottom. A final stir just before serving brings all the ingredients together beautifully, ensuring every spoonful is perfectly creamy.
• Prepping Dairy for Even Melting: Cubing both the cream cheese and butter before adding them to the slow cooker is a small but significant step. Smaller pieces melt more quickly and evenly into the corn, contributing directly to a consistently smooth and creamy texture without any lumps.
• Seasoning to Perfection: Salt and black pepper are not merely optional; they are crucial for balancing the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the dairy. Always be sure to taste and adjust the seasonings right before serving. A small pinch of cayenne pepper can also be a wonderful addition, offering a subtle warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile without making the dish overtly spicy.
• Choosing the Right Slow Cooker: While any slow cooker will technically work, models equipped with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting after the cooking cycle are highly recommended. This prevents overcooking and keeps your creamed corn at the ideal serving temperature until you’re ready to serve, making meal timing much more forgiving and reducing kitchen stress.
• Fresh Herbs for Garnish: A final sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as finely chopped parsley, chives, or a delicate sprig of fresh thyme, not only adds a lovely visual appeal but also provides a burst of fresh flavor that beautifully brightens the rich, creamy corn.

What to Pair with Your Delicious Crock Pot Creamed Corn

Our Crock Pot Creamed Corn is the quintessential comfort food side dish, perfectly complementing a wide array of main courses. It brings a touch of homestyle warmth and indulgence to any meal, making it an ideal choice for creating a classic, all-American dining experience. Here are some menu planning suggestions to inspire your next culinary creation:

Hearty Main Dishes:

• Classic Roasts: This creamed corn pairs wonderfully with traditional roasted turkey, a succulent pot roast, or a savory pork loin.
• Pork Chops & Ham: The inherent sweetness and creaminess of the corn beautifully balance the richness of pan-seared pork chops or a perfectly glazed ham.
• Chicken Dishes: Serve alongside baked chicken, roasted chicken, or a hearty chicken casserole for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Meatloaf: A truly traditional and comforting choice that screams classic American fare when served with creamy corn.
• Steaks & Brisket: Adds a delightful creamy and sweet contrast to grilled steaks or slow-smoked, tender brisket.
• Cracker Barrel Inspired Entrees: Dishes like Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken or Chicken & Dumplings find a perfect companion in this creamy side.
• Slow Cooker Mains: Complement other easy slow cooker dishes like CrockPot Rosemary Pork or CrockPot Salisbury Steak for a full hands-off meal.

Complementary Side Dishes:

Build a full and impressive feast by pairing your creamed corn with other beloved side dishes. Consider these delicious options:

• Broccoli Casserole
• Apple Stuffing
• Funeral Potatoes
• BLT Pasta Salad
• Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
• Air Fryer Baked Potato
• Jiffy Cornbread with Sour Cream
• Sweet Potato Casserole with Candied Yams
• Southern Style Green Beans
• CrockPot Bourbon Baked Beans

Sweet Endings:

After such a comforting and satisfying meal, a delightful dessert is the perfect conclusion. Some perennial favorites include:

• Ooey-Gooey Butter Cake
• Lemon Bars
• Lemon Icebox Pie
• Best Rice Krispie Treats
• Bisquick Blueberry Cobbler
• Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding
• Bisquick Apple Cobbler
• Bisquick Peach Cobbler
• Molasses Cookies
• Banana Bread
• Classic Chocolate Brownies

Refreshing Beverages:

Complete your homestyle meal with a refreshing drink that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the food:

• Coke Slushie
• Red Robin Freckled Lemonade
• CopyCat McDonald’s Sweet Tea

Perfect Occasions for Serving Crock Pot Creamed Corn

This incredibly versatile dish is suitable for almost any occasion where delicious, comforting food is appreciated. Its ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for stress-free entertaining and a beloved addition to a wide range of events.

• Everyday Family Meals: Easily elevate a simple weeknight dinner into a special, comforting occasion.
• Potlucks & Gatherings: Always a popular crowd-pleaser and incredibly easy to transport warm in your slow cooker.
• Family & Friend Get-Togethers: A comforting staple that everyone, from children to adults, will enjoy and ask for repeatedly.
• Thanksgiving Dinner: Free up invaluable oven space for your turkey, roasted vegetables, and other traditional roasted dishes.
• Christmas Dinner: Add a festive, indulgent, and effortlessly prepared touch to your holiday spread.
• Summer BBQs & Picnics: While often associated with colder months, the sweetness of creamed corn makes it a fantastic, creamy addition to any outdoor summer gathering.

Explore More Easy Slow Cooker Side Dishes

If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience, ease, and consistent deliciousness of slow cooker cooking, especially for side dishes, you’re in for a treat! The slow cooker is an invaluable kitchen tool for creating hands-off, consistently flavorful accompaniments that efficiently free up your oven and stovetop. Here are some more fantastic slow cooker side dish recipes to expand your culinary repertoire and make meal preparation even simpler:

• Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole
• Crockpot Candied Sweet Potatoes
• Crockpot Garlic Herb Potatoes
• Crockpot Glazed Carrots
• Crockpot Green Bean Casserole
• Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans
• Crockpot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Don’t forget to explore our extensive collection of easy vegetarian crockpot recipes, discover creative easy cream cheese recipes, and find inspiration for the best side dishes for ham for even more culinary adventures!

Crock Pot Creamed Corn Recipe Card

Description: An incredibly easy and flavorful recipe for making luscious creamed corn in your crock pot.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Servings: 8

Author: Tammilee Tips

Print Recipe

Ingredients:

• 24 oz Frozen Corn Kernels
• 8 oz Cream Cheese, cubed
• ¼ cup Butter, cubed
• 2 Tablespoons White Sugar
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the frozen corn kernels directly into your slow cooker. Add the cubed butter, cubed cream cheese, and sugar over the corn. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined and the corn is somewhat coated. Cover your slow cooker with the lid and cook on the LOW setting for 4 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 2 hours.
3. Stir the mixture again halfway through the cooking time to ensure even melting and distribution of ingredients. Give it one final stir right before serving for ultimate creaminess and flavor.

Notes:

This recipe is highly versatile! You can easily double or triple the ingredients depending on the number of servings needed for your feast. When preparing larger batches, remember to layer your cream cheese, butter, and sugar evenly throughout the corn to ensure consistent flavor and texture. Feel free to add a splash of milk or half-and-half during the last hour of cooking for an even creamier consistency if desired.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 243 kcal
• Fat: 16g (Saturated Fat 9g)
• Cholesterol: 46mg
• Sodium: 146mg
• Potassium: 289mg
• Carbohydrates: 24g (Fiber 2g, Sugar 4g)
• Protein: 5g
• Vitamin A: 558IU
• Vitamin C: 6mg
• Calcium: 33mg
• Iron: 1mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet and are approximate.

For more delicious and easy recipes, be sure to check out our copycat recipes, a wide variety of dessert recipes, and our extensive collection of Crock Pot Recipes.

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Recipe originally shared on November 20, 2014. Updated for clarity, SEO optimization, and additional content in September 2023.