Fleming’s Creamed Corn: A Steakhouse Sensation Reimagined

There are some dishes that, once tasted, lodge themselves permanently in your memory. For me, Fleming’s Creamed Corn is one such culinary marvel. I remember my first encounter with it vividly – a side dish so rich, so perfectly balanced, it almost stole the show from the prime rib I was enjoying. The creamy sweetness of the corn, kissed by a subtle heat and crowned with a glorious, melty cheese topping, was a revelation. It wasn’t just corn; it was an experience, a testament to how a humble side can be elevated to star status with thoughtful preparation and quality ingredients. This recipe is my tribute to that unforgettable moment, aiming to capture that magic right in your own kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 10
• Yield: 1 (1.5-quart) baking dish
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups half-and-half
• 2 (16-ounce) packages frozen corn, thawed, rinsed, and well drained
• 2 tablespoons Anaheim chilies, diced (or jalapeño for more heat)
• Salt, to season to taste
• Cayenne pepper, to season to taste
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated, divided
• 1/4 lb Gruyere cheese, shaved into pieces for the topping

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Whisk
• 1 1/2-quart shallow baking dish (or individual ramekins)
• Oven

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your base. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onions, stirring frequently, until they are softened and translucent, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Next, we build the creamy sauce. Stir in the flour with the softened onions. Cook and stir the flour for a full minute. This step is crucial for cooking out the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually whisk in the half-and-half, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking as you bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Keep whisking often as the sauce thickens. This should take approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Now, it’s time to incorporate the stars of the show. Stir in the thoroughly drained frozen corn and the diced Anaheim chilies. Bring the corn mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer.
5. Seasoning is key to elevating this dish. Stir in the seasoned salt, cayenne pepper, granulated sugar, and 1/3 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the creamy corn mixture.
6. Transfer the rich, creamy corn mixture to a shallow 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
7. For that irresistible, golden-brown topping, sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the corn. Then, arrange the shaved pieces of Gruyere cheese over the Parmesan.
8. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes. The goal is to melt the cheeses thoroughly and achieve a beautiful, golden-brown topping. For an extra touch of color and crispness, you can carefully place the dish under a broiler for a minute or two at the end, watching it vigilantly to prevent burning.
10. If you prefer individual servings, this creamed corn mixture can also be spooned into 4 to 6 individual ramekins. Top each ramekin with a portion of the Parmesan and Gruyere cheeses, and bake for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Corn Quality Matters: While frozen corn is specified for convenience, using high-quality, sweet corn will undoubtedly yield a superior flavor. If using fresh corn, you’ll need about 3 to 4 cups of kernels.
• Chili Choice: Anaheim chilies offer a mild, earthy pepper flavor without overwhelming heat. If you enjoy a spicier kick, jalapeños are an excellent substitute. Remember to remove the seeds and membranes from jalapeños to control the heat level.
• Cheese Harmony: The combination of nutty Parmesan and the slightly sharp, meltable Gruyere is divine. For a different profile, consider a sharp white cheddar or even a touch of smoked gouda for added complexity.
• Sauce Thickness: The consistency of the creamed corn should be thick enough to coat the corn kernels generously but not so stiff that it becomes paste-like. If it seems too thick after adding the half-and-half, you can whisk in a tablespoon or two more of half-and-half until your desired consistency is reached.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Fleming’s Creamed Corn is best served hot, fresh from the oven, allowing the melted cheese to stretch and entice. It’s an ideal accompaniment to hearty steaks, roasted poultry, or grilled pork. For a more casual meal, it’s also a fantastic addition to a barbecue spread or a holiday feast.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the creamed corn in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, or place individual portions in the oven (covered with foil) at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Be aware that reheating may alter the texture slightly, as the sauce can become a bit looser.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	266.4 kcal
Calories from Fat	139 kcal
Total Fat	15.6 g	23%
Saturated Fat	9.2 g	46%
Cholesterol	46.8 mg	15%
Sodium	184.4 mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	24.7 g	8%
Dietary Fiber	2.3 g	9%
Sugars	1.9 g	7%
Protein	10.7 g	21%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a Lighter Version: Substitute the half-and-half with a combination of whole milk and heavy cream, or use a good quality unsweetened almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free option. Adjusting the milk quantity might be necessary to achieve the desired sauce thickness.
• Adding Sweetness: If your corn is not particularly sweet, you can increase the sugar slightly, but be cautious not to overpower the savory elements. A touch of honey could also be used.
• Spice Level: For those who love a pronounced heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the cayenne, or incorporate a finely diced poblano pepper for a more complex, mild heat with a smoky undertone.
• Herbal Notes: A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley just before serving can add a lovely freshness and visual appeal.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Why is my creamed corn sauce not thickening properly?
A: Ensure you’ve cooked the flour with the butter and onions for at least one minute before adding the liquid. Also, make sure you are bringing the mixture to a boil while whisking consistently to activate the thickening properties of the flour.

Q: Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! If using fresh corn, you will need approximately 3 to 4 cups of kernels. You can cut them directly off the cob.

Q: What is the best way to prevent the cheese topping from burning?
A: Keep a close eye on the dish, especially if you choose to use the broiler. The cheese melts and turns golden relatively quickly under direct heat. If it’s browning too fast, you can loosely tent the dish with foil.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the corn mixture (up to step 5) and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, transfer to your baking dish, add the cheese topping, and bake as directed, potentially adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Q: Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, use a plant-based milk like unsweetened cashew or oat milk instead of half-and-half, and opt for dairy-free shredded cheeses for the topping.

This recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s an invitation to indulge in comfort and flavor. The rich, creamy texture, the sweetness of the corn, and the savory cheese topping create a harmony that is utterly irresistible. Whether you’re serving it alongside a celebratory meal or simply craving a taste of restaurant-quality indulgence at home, this Fleming’s Creamed Corn is sure to become a cherished recipe in your repertoire. Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and prepare to be delighted.