Name: Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (10 ounce) packages Simple Nature Organic Frozen Corn; 2 Pueblo Lindo Canned Chipotle Peppers in adobo sauce, diced; 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from the can of chipotles; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons Simply Nature Organic Unsalted Butter; 2 tablespoons Baker’s Corner Granulated Sugar; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup Simply Nature Organic Omega-3 Whole Milk; 2 tablespoons Baker’s Corner All-Purpose Flour; ⅓ cup freshly grated Emporium Selection Parmesan Italian Cheese Wedge; Fresh herbs, such as parsley, for topping; 1 tablespoon Simply Nature Organic Butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ¾ cup Chef’s Cupboard Panko Breadcrumbs

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 128 reviews

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.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy & Comforting: The rich cream and butter create a luscious base that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Smoky Chipotle Heat: The chipotle peppers add just enough smokiness and mild heat to elevate the sweet corn without overpowering it.
Crunchy Garlic Breadcrumbs: Topping it with garlic breadcrumbs gives a wonderful contrast in texture that you’ll come back for again and again.
Simple & Quick: You’ll have this decadent side ready in about 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

The image shows a close-up of a baked corn dish with two distinct layers visible: the bottom layer is creamy corn with shiny, bright yellow kernels mixed with a smooth white sauce, and the top layer is a crumbly, golden-brown breadcrumb topping scattered evenly, adding texture. Small pieces of fresh green chives are sprinkled across the surface, giving a pop of color and freshness. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs, smoky creamed corn, spicy corn side dish, comforting corn recipes, easy corn side dish

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.

Flat lay of bright yellow frozen corn kernels scattered alongside deep red diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, glossy and rich with vibrant chili tones; creamy white heavy cream pooling gently near smooth golden unsalted butter pats; a small mound of freshly grated pale ivory Parmesan cheese with fine, delicate texture; fresh green parsley sprigs with crisp leaves adding a burst of freshness; two peeled garlic cloves showing smooth, creamy white surfaces; and light golden panko breadcrumbs with a crunchy, airy texture sprinkled in a natural, casual arrangement, placed on white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs, smoky creamed corn, spicy corn side dish, comforting corn recipes, easy corn side dish

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.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

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!

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Pro Tips for Making Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe

Go Low and Slow: Cooking the corn mixture over medium heat prevents scorching and helps flavors develop beautifully.
Shake the Slurry Well: I discovered that shaking the milk and flour together thoroughly prevents lumps that are a pain to whisk out later.
Toast Breadcrumbs Carefully: Keep the heat medium-low and stir continuously so your garlic breadcrumbs get golden but never burnt.
Taste as You Go: Adjust heat and seasoning gradually — chipotle peppers vary in strength, so add more only if you’re sure.

How to Serve Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe

The image shows a white oval dish filled with creamy corn casserole. The bottom layer is creamy white sauce mixed with soft yellow corn kernels, topped with a golden-brown crumb layer sprinkled with green chives. The crumb layer looks crunchy and evenly spread across the top. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth to the left, and a small white dish with crumbs and a bowl of dark sauce with a spoon to the upper right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs, smoky creamed corn, spicy corn side dish, comforting corn recipes, easy corn side dish

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

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen for the Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh corn is fantastic when in season and will make the dish even sweeter and more vibrant. Just cut the kernels off the cob and proceed as directed, adjusting cooking time slightly as fresh corn can be more tender and might cook faster.
How spicy is the Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe?

The spice level is mild to medium depending on how many chipotle peppers and how much adobo sauce you add. You can control the heat easily by starting with one pepper and tasting before adding more, making it perfect for most palates.
Can I make the garlic breadcrumbs ahead of time?

Yes! You can toast the garlic breadcrumbs ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Sprinkle them on just before serving to maintain their crunch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written because of the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs, but you can easily adapt it using gluten-free flour for the slurry and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make a delicious gluten-free version.

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!