Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting side that packs a flavorful punch, you’re going to absolutely love this Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe. It’s creamy, smoky, and has just the right amount of kick that warms you up without overwhelming your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or just want a cozy weeknight treat, this dish brings a little magic to the table every time. Let me walk you through it — I promise by the end, you’ll be thinking of all the occasions you want to make it for.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here play beautifully together — the sweetness of corn, smoky depth from chipotles, and creamy texture all balanced with savory, toasty breadcrumbs. You don’t need any fancy items; most are pantry staples or easy to find in stores, making this recipe super approachable.

• Frozen corn: Using frozen corn helps keep that sweet corn flavor fresh year-round, plus it’s easy and saves time compared to fresh.
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: These canned peppers bring smoky heat and flavor; be sure to dice them finely so they blend evenly.
• Adobo sauce: This thick sauce from the chipotle can packs concentrated flavor — don’t skip it!
• Heavy cream: It’s key for that silky richness that makes the corn feel indulgent and creamy.
• Unsalted butter: I love using unsalted here so I can control the seasoning perfectly as I go.
• Granulated sugar: Just a touch to balance out the smoky spice and bring out the natural sweetness of the corn.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Seasoning is everything — adjust it to your taste to make the flavors shine.
• Whole milk: Used to make the flour slurry that thickens the sauce without lumps.
• All-purpose flour: For thickening; mixing it with milk first prevents clumps.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a savory touch and richness that complements the other flavors.
• Fresh herbs (parsley or others): A sprinkle on top brings freshness and a pop of color.
• Butter (for breadcrumbs): Used to toast the garlic and breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic gives an irresistible aroma and depth to the breadcrumb topping.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These create the perfect crunchy texture to contrast the creamed corn’s softness.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe is how flexible it is. Feel free to tweak the heat level or add your own spin depending on what you have or prefer — it’s all about making it your own.

• Mild Version: If you’re spice-sensitive like some of my family members, just reduce the chipotle peppers and adobo sauce — it’s still flavorful, just gentler on the palate.
• Cheesy Boost: Try stirring in sharp cheddar or Mexican queso fresco for a different cheesy twist that meshes well with the smoky chipotle.
• Herb Swaps: Cilantro or chives can replace parsley for a fresh pop, especially if you like a little extra zing.
• Dairy-Free Version: I’ve experimented with coconut cream and dairy-free butter, and while the texture changes slightly, it’s still super tasty!

How to Make Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe

Step 1: Create the Creamy Chipotle Base

Start by heating the frozen corn, diced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, heavy cream, butter, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Don’t forget a big pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground pepper here — seasoning early helps build the flavor. Stir gently as you cook until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, creating a luscious base. I love taking this slow and steady so the flavors meld beautifully without boiling over or scorching.

Step 2: Make the Slurry and Thicken the Creamed Corn

Next, combine the whole milk and all-purpose flour in a shaker cup with a tight lid — shaking it for about 30 seconds. This slurry is a little trick I learned to keep lumps out of the dish. Pour it into your simmering corn mixture and whisk constantly. Keep cooking and stirring for about 5 to 6 minutes until the corn sauce thickens up, developing that rich, creamy texture you want. Patience here really pays off!

Step 3: Add Parmesan and Adjust Flavors

Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese — this adds a nutty, savory depth that takes the creamed corn over the top. Taste the mixture and adjust with more salt, pepper, or even extra chipotle peppers if you’re in the mood for more heat. This part is all about making the flavor profile *yours* — I love doing little tastings as I go.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Breadcrumbs Topping

While the corn thickens, heat butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Toss in minced garlic and cook just about 20 seconds until fragrant — be careful here; garlic burns fast! Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir constantly, cooking until the breadcrumbs turn golden and toasted. This crispy topping totally transforms the dish by adding crunchy texture and garlicky goodness.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Pour your beautifully creamy corn into a serving bowl, then generously sprinkle the garlic breadcrumbs over the top. Finish with fresh herbs if you want a pop of color and brightness. Serve immediately and watch how this side disappears faster than you expected!

How to Serve Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley—that little burst of green makes it look inviting and adds a fresh note. Sometimes I like adding a little extra parmesan or a few tiny drops of crema or sour cream if I want to play with textures. It’s those small touches that make it feel special.

Side Dishes

This creamed corn is a dream paired with BBQ ribs, roasted chicken, or even a simple grilled steak. I’ve also served it alongside crispy roasted potatoes and a green salad for a quick, balanced dinner that impresses every time.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I love serving it in mini ramekins with the garlic breadcrumbs sprinkled on top just before guests arrive so it stays crunchy. Sometimes adding a drizzle of chipotle crema or even a light dusting of smoked paprika on top brings that extra visual pop that gets people excited.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. When storing, keep the garlic breadcrumbs separate if possible to preserve their crunch.

Freezing

I’ve frozen creamed corn before, and while it loses a bit of its fresh creaminess, it reheats well in a saucepan over low heat. Just skip freezing the garlic breadcrumbs — it’s better to toast fresh crumbs when you reheat.

Reheating

The best way I found to reheat leftover Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe is gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to revive the texture. Sprinkle freshly toasted garlic breadcrumbs just before serving to restore that delightful crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe always brings a little sparkle to my dinner table. It’s become one of those dishes I turn to when I want something familiar yet exciting — creamy, smoky, and crunchy all in one bite. I’m confident you’ll enjoy making it as much as eating it, and that it’ll become a staple for your family gatherings or cozy nights in. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out — I bet you’ll be craving it again in no time!

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