3-Ingredient Blackened Corn
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Blackened corn can be made in 15 minutes using a skillet instead of a grill. This easy, three-ingredient side dish will become your go-to! It’s perfect for BBQs, Picnics and summer get togethers. Serve it as a side or with burrito bowls, tacos, and quesadillas.
Blacked Corn
At a Glance
EASE: Super easy!
CUISINE: American
COURSE: Side dish
DIET: Vegan and dairy-free optional, gluten-free
TIME: 15 minutes
Blackened corn is an easy side dish to make on your stovetop. Melt butter in a skillet, add blackened seasonings and corn kernels, and sauté until charred. It doesn’t get much easier than that! I love to take this recipe to BBQs and summer family get togethers.
But this recipe is so much more then a side dish. It is a great way to spice up your corn for burrito bowls, tacos and as a homemade salsa. Try adding it to my grilled cheese pinwheels for flavor and texture. I like to add it as a baked potato topping. Spices things up!
Ingredients and Equipment
Frozen Sweet Corn Kernels
You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. I prefer frozen, except in summer when fresh corn peaks. As a side note, this recipe does not work with corn on the cob. I tried it several times and it was always a fail.
Blackened Seasoning
You can use the blackened seasoning of your choice. I use a premade mix. You can also make your own blackened seasoning. I have a recipe below for you.
Butter
Two tablespoons of the butter. You can make this recipe vegan and dairy-free by using plant-based butter instead.
Skillet
Use a cast iron skillet if you have one. If not, it’s okay; you can still make this recipe in a traditional pan!
How to Achieve the Perfect Char
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Spread the corn kernels in an even layer and avoid overcrowding the skillet. If the corn is overcrowded it will steam and become soft.
- Dry the Corn Thoroughly: If you’re using frozen corn, thaw and dry it thoroughly with paper towels before adding it to the skillet. Excess moisture can cause steaming instead of charing.
Homemade Blackened Seasoning
This recipe is so easy! My favorite part is that simple blackened seasoning can be really salty. By making it at home you can control the amount of salt added.
Ingredients
2 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp dried thyme
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
1 tsp salt
Instructions
Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl. Store in an airtight container.
Perfect Pairings
Frequently Asked Questions
Try One Of My Other Corn Recipes
Did you make this? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out!
3-Ingredient Blackened Corn
Equipment
- 1 Cast iron skillet or skillet
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter/plant-based butter
- 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning
- 4 cups frozen corn kernals
Instructions
Step One: Prep
- Preheat a skillet or cast iron skillet over medium heat.
- Melt the butter or plant-based butter in the hot skillet.
- Sprinkle the blackened seasoning over the melted butter and stir. Let the spices simmer for one minute.
Step Two: Cook
- Add the frozen corn kernels to the skillet and toss to evenly coat each kernel in the seasoned butter.
- Cook the corn undisturbed for 3-5 minutes. Stir and repeat until the corn is golden brown and charred.
- Remove the charred corn from the skillet and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Thawing Corn: Thaw the corn before cooking. Once thawed, pat the corn dry to avoid steaming.
- Storage: Let the corn completely cool. Place in an air-tight container in the fridge for 3 – 5 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the corn in a hot skillet for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the corn mushy.
