When it comes to quick and easy weeknight meals, few ingredients are as versatile or convenient as frozen corn. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of chowder or a flavorful stir-fry, frozen corn is the perfect addition to many dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the best of frozen corn. From savory main courses to sweet and tangy desserts, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
We’ll start with some classic comfort foods, like Creamy Corn and Potato Chowder, a hearty soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Then, we’ll move on to some international-inspired dishes, such as Mexican Street Corn Salad and Corn and Black Bean Quesadillas. And don’t forget the cheesy goodness of our Cheesy Corn Casserole or the spicy kick of Corn and Jalapeño Cornbread!
Creamy Corn and Potato Chowder
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful chowder that combines the sweetness of corn and potatoes with the richness of cream. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the diced potatoes, corn kernels, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Salad
This vibrant salad captures the essence of Mexico’s famous street corn, with the added bonus of being easily transportable and perfect for potlucks or picnics. With its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and crunchy sweetness, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked corn kernels
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil; toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle queso fresco or feta cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Corn and Black Bean Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, these corn and black bean-filled tortillas are perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, corn kernels, and 1/4 cup of the cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the bean-corn mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve warm with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Corn Casserole
This classic casserole is a comforting side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual meals. A mix of sweet corn, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs creates a satisfying flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup French-fried onions
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle French-fried onions and crushed crackers evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Corn and Bacon Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines sweet corn, crispy bacon, and savory rice for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, corn kernels, crumbled bacon, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Corn and Zucchini Fritters
These sweet and savory fritters are perfect as a snack or side dish for your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together corn kernels, grated zucchini, and egg.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter into the skillet.
6. Flatten slightly with a spatula and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Corn and Chicken Enchiladas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken, corn, onion, and cilantro. Cook over medium heat until heated through.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over low heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble enchiladas by spooning the chicken mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Corn and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Moist and flavorful chicken breasts are filled with a delicious mixture of sautéed spinach, corn, and cheese, making for a satisfying main dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate pan, warm the corn kernels over low heat.
5. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture, followed by the corn and cheese.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Corn and Jalapeño Cornbread
This recipe combines the classic comfort of cornbread with the bold flavor of jalapeños, adding a spicy kick to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 2-3 jalapeños, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in corn kernels and diced jalapeños.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn and Tomato Summer Pasta
Beat the heat with this refreshing Corn and Tomato Summer Pasta recipe! This light and flavorful dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne, or linguine)
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add corn kernels and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, and reserved pasta water in the skillet. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn and Shrimp Stir Fry
A flavorful and vibrant stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with sweet corn, savory soy sauce, and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and bell peppers to the pan. Cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the corn kernels and soy sauce to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the corn is slightly caramelized.
5. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for a final minute to combine with the vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Corn and Ham Hash
A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the savory goodness of ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked ham
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in corn kernels and chopped ham. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is well combined.
4. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the creaminess of corn and cheese, making for a satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (button, cremini, or portobello)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together corn kernels and melted butter.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with about 1-2 tablespoons of the corn mixture.
4. Sprinkle grated cheese over the corn filling.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn and Avocado Salsa
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and delicious Corn and Avocado Salsa! Perfect for dipping chips, topping tacos, or enjoying as a fresh veggie dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears of corn)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine corn kernels, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with salt. Toss to combine.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious Corn and Avocado Salsa!
Corn and Sausage Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavor of sausage. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the corn kernels and cook until they’re lightly toasted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes
Corn and Pumpkin Soup
As the weather cools down, warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of corn and pumpkin. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 cups of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped pumpkin and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn kernels, chicken broth, and salt.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Corn and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of corn and rice with the savory flavor of roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, corn kernels, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Roast for 45 minutes, then remove foil and continue roasting for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Corn and Green Chile Dip
This creamy dip combines the sweetness of corn with the bold flavor of green chile peppers, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and addictive snack that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh green chile peppers (such as Anaheim or Hatch)
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add corn kernels, green chile peppers, and lime juice. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until dip is heated through.
5. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get creative with frozen corn on busy weeknights! This collection of 18 easy recipes showcases the versatility of this summer staple. From hearty chowders to flavorful salads and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Try making a Creamy Corn and Potato Chowder or a Mexican Street Corn Salad. Or, get inspired by dishes like Corn and Bacon Stuffed Peppers or Corn and Zucchini Fritters. These quick and delicious recipes are perfect for busy households looking to add some excitement to their weeknight meals.
