Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe

If you love a cozy, indulgent side dish that has just the right amount of smoky heat and a crunchy surprise on top, then you’re in for a real treat with this Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe. It’s become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want to elevate a simple dinner or impress guests without breaking a sweat. Creamy, rich, and packed with layers of flavor, you’ll find this recipe hands-down fan-freaking-tastic—and I can’t wait to share all the tips I’ve picked up so your kitchen experience is as effortless and delicious as mine!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe relies on simple but quality ingredients that come together to create something really special. When I shop for this, I look for fresh frozen corn that isn’t overly sweetened, plus canned chipotles that have a punchy smoky flavor but won’t overpower the dish.

• Frozen Corn: You want high-quality corn that stays sweet and crisp even after cooking—Simple Nature Organic is my favorite for consistent texture.
• Chipotle Peppers in adobo sauce: These deliver that signature smoky heat; canned chipotles work great because they’re ready to use and super flavorful.
• Adobo Sauce: Don’t skip this—adds a rich, tangy smokiness that lifts the entire dish.
• Heavy Cream: This adds luscious creaminess and richness—make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Butter brings smoothness and depth; unsalted lets you control the seasoning better.
• Sugar: Just a touch to balance the smoky and spicy notes.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
• Whole Milk: Used to make the flour slurry, which thickens the creamed corn perfectly.
• All-Purpose Flour: This is your thickener—just enough to give you that creamy coating without heaviness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a bright, savory punch that pairs beautifully with smoky chipotle.
• Fresh Herbs (like parsley): I like adding a sprinkle on top for a fresh bite and pretty presentation.
• Butter (for breadcrumbs): Melts into the garlic and breadcrumbs for irresistible crispiness.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced fresh garlic makes the breadcrumbs aromatic and flavorful.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Gives you that golden, crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy corn.

Variations

I love how versatile this Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe is—you really can make it your own with small tweaks. I often change up the herbs or add extra spice depending on who I’m feeding.

• Extra smoky heat: When I want it spicier, I toss in an extra chipotle pepper or a splash more adobo sauce; my spice-loving guests always appreciate the kick.
• Dairy-free version: I’ve swapped heavy cream for canned coconut milk and used olive oil instead of butter on the breadcrumbs—still creamy and delicious.
• Herb swap: Fresh cilantro or thyme work beautifully if parsley isn’t your jam.
• Cheese options: Instead of Parmesan, I’ve tried Cotija for a tangier, crumbly finish.

How to Make Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe

Step 1: Bringing the Flavors Together

Start by heating the frozen corn, diced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, heavy cream, butter, and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. I like to add a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper right here. Stir occasionally, letting the butter melt completely and the sugar dissolve—this creates the creamy, sweet base that’s going to hold all those beautiful smoky flavors.

Step 2: Thickening the Creamed Corn

While your corn mixture warms up, shake together the whole milk and flour in a lidded cup or jar for about 30 seconds until smooth. This slurry will thicken your creamed corn perfectly. Slowly whisk it into the hot corn mixture, stirring often to avoid lumps. Keep cooking over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a rich, creamy consistency—usually around 5 to 6 minutes.

Step 3: Finishing Touches—Cheese and Seasoning

Once thickened, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheesy, salty tang brings the whole dish together. Taste at this stage and adjust salt and pepper as needed—if you want more heat, you can even add a bit more chipotle pepper or a splash more adobo sauce. This is where you make it your own!

Step 4: Making the Garlic Breadcrumbs

In a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter, then add the minced garlic. Cook for just about 20 seconds until fragrant; this step is crucial because you want the garlic to infuse the butter but not burn. Toss in the panko breadcrumbs and stir constantly until they turn golden and beautifully toasty. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Once done, immediately remove from heat so they don’t overcook.

Step 5: Serving It Up

Pour the creamy chipotle corn into a serving bowl and sprinkle the warm garlic breadcrumbs across the top. I love finishing with a handful of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately and watch everyone dive in!

How to Serve Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top the creamed corn with a sprinkle of fresh parsley—the green just brightens every bite and looks stunning against the golden corn and crunchy breadcrumbs. Sometimes I add chopped chives or even a dash of smoked paprika for extra color and subtle smoky notes.

Side Dishes

This chipotle creamed corn pairs incredibly well with grilled meats—think steak, chicken, or smoky pork chops. I also love serving it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. For a Tex-Mex twist, try it with tacos or enchiladas.

Creative Ways to Present

Once, I served this creamed corn in small individual ramekins for a dinner party—each topped with the garlic breadcrumbs and a tiny sprig of cilantro. It felt so special and made a big impact without extra fuss. For casual meals, a big bowl on the table works perfectly to let everyone help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover creamed corn in an airtight container in the fridge and it keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days. Just be sure to hold off on adding the garlic breadcrumbs until serving, so they stay nice and crunchy.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this creamed corn once or twice with decent results. Freeze it in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When thawed, the texture is slightly softer but still creamy and delicious, especially once warmed gently.

Reheating

For reheating, I warm the creamed corn gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and adding a splash of milk or cream if it feels too thick. I always prep fresh garlic breadcrumbs right before serving to maintain that irresistible crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Chipotle Creamed Corn with Garlic Breadcrumbs Recipe brings comfort food vibes with a gourmet twist. When I first tried making it, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create a dish that everyone raved about. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special holiday side, this recipe delivers every time. I really hope you give it a go and enjoy the cozy, smoky, crunchy magic as much as my family and I do—I promise it’ll become a staple you’ll look forward to making again and again!

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