Fried Corn Recipe: How to make a flavorful side dish

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to whip up, this fried corn recipe is the perfect choice. Fried corn brings out the natural sweetness of fresh corn, making it a fantastic complement to a variety of meals. With a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this golden, buttery dish ready in no time. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just need a quick addition to your weeknight meal, this fried corn recipe will never disappoint.

Fried corn recipe

Recipe by kenzaDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

150

kcal

A simple and flavorful fried corn recipe, perfect as a side dish to any meal. Sweet corn is sautéed with butter and seasonings to create a crispy, savory, and slightly caramelized treat.

Ingredients

4 cups of fresh corn kernels (about 6 ears of corn) or frozen corn
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar (if corn isn’t sweet)
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Directions

Prep the corn: If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and cut the kernels off the cob
Heat the pan: In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the onions: Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add garlic: Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Fry the corn: Add the corn kernels to the skillet. Stir and fry for about 8-10 minutes, letting the corn brown slightly and develop a slight crisp.
Season: Add salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar if needed for extra sweetness. Stir well.
Remove from heat, garnish with parsley or chives if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
Fresh corn works best for this recipe, but frozen corn is a great substitute in a pinch.
You can use bacon grease instead of butter for a richer, smokier flavor.

Steps to shuck Corn and remove the silks

Start by removing the outer husks: Grab the top of the husk where it meets the corn and pull it down toward the base in one smooth motion. Continue peeling away all the layers of husk until the cob is fully exposed.
Break off the stem: Once the husks are peeled down, twist and snap off the husk and stem at the base of the corn.
Remove the silks: Rub the corn with your hands or a damp paper towel to loosen and pull off the fine silks that are stuck to the kernels.
Brush off any stubborn silks: Use a soft-bristled vegetable brush or your fingers to remove any remaining silks.
Rinse the corn: If necessary, rinse the cob under cold water to remove any leftover silks or debris.

Tips about Fried corn recipe:

Choosing corn: Always opt for fresh, sweet corn when in season. It will yield the best flavor. When fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn is a close substitute, but avoid canned corn as it tends to be too soft for frying.
Browning for flavor: Let the corn sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes before stirring to allow some kernels to brown. This caramelization adds an extra layer of flavor.
Season to taste: Be mindful of seasoning—corn can be naturally sweet, so balance with salt and pepper, and taste as you go.
Butter and oil mix: Using a mix of butter and olive oil prevents the butter from burning while still giving you that rich buttery taste.
Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or even cilantro give a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.

Surprising things you may not know about Corn:

Corn is not only a versatile vegetable, but it’s also a staple in many diets around the world. Did you know that corn is technically a grain and a fruit? Also, corn is gluten-free, making it a great alternative for those with gluten sensitivities. From popcorn to cornmeal, this ancient crop has been cultivated for over 9,000 years, providing nutrition and sustenance to civilizations.

How to store leftovers:

Store leftover fried corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.

What to serve with Fried Corn:

Fried corn is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses. For a Southern-inspired meal, serve it alongside fried chicken or BBQ ribs. It also complements seafood dishes like shrimp or grilled fish, adding a sweet and savory balance. For a lighter meal, pair fried corn with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. It can even be a delicious addition to tacos, burritos, or as a topping for baked potatoes. The buttery, crispy texture of fried corn enhances both hearty and fresh dishes, making it a perfect side for any occasion.

Variants of Fried corn recipe:

Cheesy Fried Corn: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese in the last minute of cooking.
Spicy Mexican-Style Corn: Add chili powder, cumin, and lime juice, and top with crumbled Cotija cheese.
Creamy Corn: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or sour cream for a rich, creamy texture.
Bacon and Corn: Fry up some diced bacon first, remove from pan, and then fry the corn in the bacon grease. Add the crispy bacon bits back in before serving.
Garlic Butter Corn: Use garlic butter instead of plain butter for extra depth of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn works well. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before frying.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply swap the butter for a plant-based butter or use all olive oil.

How long does fried corn last?

It lasts for about 3 days in the fridge when stored properly.

Can I make fried corn in advance?

Yes! You can make it ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.

This fried corn recipe is a delicious and simple side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its crispy, buttery sweetness pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals, from casual weeknight dinners to summer BBQs. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—it’s quick enough for busy nights yet flavorful enough to serve at special gatherings. Plus, with just a few basic ingredients, you can easily customize it with herbs, spices, or even cheese to suit your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this fried corn recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Its rich, savory flavors and easy preparation make it a go-to side dish you can enjoy year-round.