Name: Irresistibly Creamy Corn that Elevates Every Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Corn Kernels (Fresh, frozen, or canned (well-drained)); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Melted); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Heavy Cream (Substitute half-and-half for lighter option); 1/2 cup Whole Milk; 1 tablespoon Sugar; 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon White or Black Pepper (Adjust to taste); 1 cup Shredded White Cheddar or Gruyère Cheese; 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; 2 tablespoons Melted Butter; 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs

As the rich aroma of buttery cream wafts through the kitchen, my heart feels lighter, like I’ve descended into a culinary haven. This Ruth’s Chris Creamed Corn Au Gratin recipe is one of those rare gems that transforms simple corn into a velvety, comforting side dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia. Not only is it a delightful vegetarian option, but it’s also an impressive addition to any dinner table, bringing a touch of indulgence without the fuss. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for both holiday feasts and cozy weeknights alike. Ready to elevate your meals with this creamy delight? Let’s dive into the recipe, and I promise your taste buds will thank you!

Why is Creamed Corn So Irresistible?

Richness envelops each bite as creamy butter melds with sweet corn, creating a delectable harmony of flavors. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is always a hit—perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties. Versatility shines through; serve it with grilled meats or pair it with a crisp salad. Time-Saving: It comes together quickly, ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute holiday prep. Plus, it’s a vegetarian’s dream! For a unique twist, try adding caramelized onions or jalapeños. Your taste buds will absolutely love this indulgent treat!

Creamed Corn Ingredients

• Transform your kitchen with this creamy delight!

For the Creamed Mixture
• Corn Kernels – Fresh, frozen, or canned (well-drained) provide the sweetness and plump texture that makes creamed corn irresistible.
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich, flavorful roux while allowing you to control the final saltiness of the dish.
• All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the essential thickener for our velvety sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious richness and creaminess; substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Whole Milk – Balances the heaviness of the cream and ensures a smooth consistency.
• Sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn for that extra touch of deliciousness.
• Salt – Essential for flavor; adjust as per your taste preferences.
• White or Black Pepper – Offers a subtle heat that elevates the flavor profile.
• Shredded White Cheddar or Gruyère Cheese – The main cheese that melts beautifully, adding flavor and creaminess; Gruyère lends a nutty note.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Enhances depth of flavor with its sharpness.

For the Topping
• Melted Butter – Contributes a rich taste and allows for a delectable crunch on top.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Delivers a light, crispy texture; this optional addition creates a beautiful contrast to the creamy filling.

This delightful creamed corn recipe will leave you craving its savory warmth time and time again!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Creamed Corn Au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms, lightly butter a 2-quart baking dish, ensuring it’s well-coated to prevent sticking. This will create a delightful, slightly crispy edge to your creamed corn as it bakes. Set the dish aside, and get ready to melt your butter in the next step.

Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it gently sizzles, releasing a rich aroma. Keep an eye on it to prevent browning—just aim for a lovely golden hue. This butter forms the base for your creamy sauce, so make sure it’s fully melted before adding the next ingredient.

Step 3: Create the Roux
Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour into the melted butter, continuing to stir for about 1 minute. This forms a roux, which will thicken your creamed corn beautifully. You’ll notice it clumping together and starting to bubble slightly. Keep stirring, ensuring there are no lumps, and it’s just cooked to a fragrant, light golden color.

Step 4: Add Cream and Milk
Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of whole milk, whisking continuously to maintain a smooth consistency. Allow the mixture to thicken gently—this should take about 3-5 minutes over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and is slightly bubbly.

Step 5: Season the Mixture
Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of white or black pepper, adjusting according to your taste. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, mixing occasionally. This allows all the flavors of your creamed corn to meld beautifully, enhancing its comforting essence.

Step 6: Combine the Corn and Cheese
Remove the pan from the heat and fold in 2 cups of corn kernels—fresh, frozen, or well-drained canned. Then, mix in 1 cup of shredded white cheddar or Gruyère cheese along with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until they’re melted and smoothly incorporated into the creamed corn. The rich, cheesy aroma will make your mouth water!

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish
Carefully pour the creamy corn mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. This will distribute the creaminess evenly, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last. If you’re using, now’s the time to prepare your topping for that extra crunchy layer.

Step 8: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the creamed corn. The panko will create a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy filling below.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Look for the edges to bubble and the top to turn a gorgeous golden brown—this signifies that your Ruth’s Chris Creamed Corn Au Gratin is ready to be devoured!

Step 10: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your creamed corn rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the dish to set slightly, enhancing the creamy texture. Scoop out portions of this comforting dish, and enjoy the warm, inviting flavors that bring a smile to the dinner table!

What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Creamed Corn Au Gratin

Looking to create a complete meal that dazzles the palate? Pair your indulgent creamed corn with some delightful sides and drinks!

Grilled Chicken: The smoky char of grilled chicken adds a savory contrast, enhancing the creaminess of the corn. This combination is a classic family favorite.
Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli cuts through the richness, providing balance while bringing a pop of vibrant color to your plate.
Pork Tenderloin: Juicy, seasoned pork tenderloin complements the sweet, buttery notes of creamed corn, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It’s perfect for special occasions!
Crisp Garden Salad: A simple salad with refreshing greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a light, crunchy texture that brightens up the meal. It’s the ideal counterpoint to the creaminess.
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a delightful burst of acidity, enhancing the sweetness of the corn and balancing the flavors beautifully.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of oaky Chardonnay elevates the entire dining experience, skillfully complementing the richness of the creamed corn while refreshing the palate.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a velvety chocolate mousse offers a luxurious finish, creating a delightful end to your comforting meal. Each bite is a sweet majesty, perfect to share.
Cornbread Muffins: Served warm, the sweet and slightly crumbly cornbread muffins make an excellent companion, echoing the corn flavors while adding delightful texture.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries introduce a sweet and savory dimension to your meal that pairs beautifully with the creamy dish, offering a satisfying crunch.
Herb-Infused Sparkling Water: To cleanse your palate, serve refreshing sparkling water infused with herbs like mint or basil. It’s a sophisticated, tasty choice that complements all flavors.

Creamed Corn Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to take this delicious dish to the next level and make it your own with these exciting swaps and enhancements!

Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a cashew cream for a rich, non-dairy alternative.
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give your creamed corn a fiery flavor twist.
Herbaceous Touch: Stir in fresh chives or thyme for a burst of freshness that beautifully complements the creamy texture.
Cheese Choices: Swap Gruyère or cheddar for pepper jack or fontina for a different flavor profile—each will melt beautifully.
Textural Twist: Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers to bring an extra layer of texture and earthiness to the dish.

Embrace your creativity and enjoy this versatile recipe! Whether you’re looking for something lighter or simply a way to stir in some different flavors, there’s always a delightful option to suit your palate. And if you’re in the mood for comfort food classics, don’t miss out on other favorites like mac and cheese or a hearty vegetable lasagna.

Make Ahead Options

These Ruth’s Chris Creamed Corn Au Gratin are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the entire creamy mixture and transfer it to your baking dish up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. If you want to go a step further, you can mix the topping and store it separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply remove the dish from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then sprinkle with the panko topping and bake as directed. This allows you to enjoy the same rich, creamy goodness without the last-minute hustle!

Expert Tips for Creamed Corn

Know Your Corn: Use fresh corn in season for the best sweetness and texture. If using frozen, add directly from the bag for convenience.

Avoid Sluggish Sauce: If the sauce separates while cooking, simply whisk in a bit more cream off the heat to restore its smoothness.

Flavor Boost: For a delightful twist, try adding smoked paprika or diced jalapeños to the corn mixture for an extra kick.

Season Wisely: Remember to taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper based on preference, as too much can overpower the sweetness of the corn.

Perfect Crunch: For the crispiest topping, ensure the panko breadcrumbs are thoroughly mixed with melted butter before sprinkling them on top.

How to Store and Freeze Creamed Corn

Room Temperature: Let your creamed corn cool to room temperature before storing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can leave it out for up to 2 hours during serving.

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave to retain creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze creamed corn in a suitable container or freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer, although the texture may slightly change upon reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if it seems too thick.

Ruth’s Chris Creamed Corn Au Gratin Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best corn for creamed corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn is ideal when in season, as it provides the sweetest flavor and plump texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen corn is a convenient option—just add it straight from the bag! Canned corn can also be used but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best way to store leftover creamed corn?
Very! Allow your creamed corn to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I freeze creamed corn, and what’s the best method?
Definitely! To freeze, let the creamed corn fully cool, then scoop it into a suitable freezer bag or container. Squeeze out excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little cream if needed for texture.

What should I do if my sauce separates while cooking?
No worries! If you find that your sauce has separated, simply whisk in a splash of heavy cream off the heat. This should help to restore its silky consistency, bringing it back to its luscious creamy state. It’s all about keeping that perfect texture!

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Indeed! This creamed corn dish is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great accompaniment for a variety of diets. However, remember to check the cheese types if you have dairy allergies and consider using lactose-free alternatives. Always happy to provide substitutions based on dietary needs!

How long can creamed corn sit out before it needs to be refrigerated?
Absolutely! During serving, it can be left out at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, make sure to refrigerate any leftovers to keep them safe and delicious. Remember, food safety first!