If you’ve ever dreamt of a dish that marries the fresh flavors of the ocean with the comforting warmth of summer produce, our “Creamy Skillet Shrimp with Corn, Pancetta, and Tomatoes” is your culinary wish come true. This crowd-pleaser brings seafood succulence right into your kitchen, with a medley of textures and tastes that dance on the palate, ensuring every meal feels like a celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Fix: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights without compromising on flavor.
- Flavor Explosion: Pancetta lends a smoky depth, while fresh basil brightens every bite.
- Summer in a Skillet: Harness the peak flavors of fresh corn and tomatoes in every creamy, savory forkful.
- Elegant Yet Easy: Gourmet presentation that’s deceptively simple to prepare, wowing guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines with a few simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the crispy pancetta to the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, creating a harmonious dish that’s both vibrant and hearty.
- Diced Pancetta: Gives a rich, smoky undertone that elevates the dish’s savory profile.
- Large Raw Shrimp: Offers a succulent texture, important to cook just right for a tender bite.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Adds a sweet-tart juiciness, bursting with every bite to balance the dish.
- Fresh or Frozen Corn Kernels: Despite the season, corn provides a delightful pop of sweetness.
- Heavy Cream: Ties everything together with a lusciously creamy finish.
Variations
One of the joys of cooking is personalizing a dish to suit your needs or whims. Here are several delightful tweaks to make this recipe uniquely yours.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace shrimp with mushrooms or sautéed zucchini for a meat-free but equally delightful version.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving to add a nutty richness.
How to Make Creamy Skillet Shrimp with Corn, Pancetta, and Tomatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Pancetta
Begin by crisping up the diced pancetta in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. This process takes about seven minutes, during which the pancetta releases its aromatic fat, essential for cooking everything else to perfection.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Turn up the heat to medium-high and use the flavorful pancetta drippings to cook the shrimp. With a quick flip, these plump morsels turn opaque within minutes, providing a delightful textural contrast.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Without cleaning the skillet, let the tomatoes work their magic, bursting open to release juices that merge seamlessly with the corn, leading to a sweet and tender pairing.
Step 4: Finish with Cream
Reduce the heat, stirring in heavy cream, salt, and pepper until the sauce gently thickens. This brings together all components, creating a luxurious sauce that enrobes the shrimp and veggies.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Skillet Shrimp with Corn, Pancetta, and Tomatoes
- Pancetta Perfection: Ensure the pancetta is crispy before removing it from the pan to get the most flavor.
- Shrimp Timing: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender and juicy.
- Tomato Burst Technique: Gently press tomatoes with a spatula to help them burst for a richer sauce.
- Creamy Consistency: Avoid boiling the cream. A gentle simmer enriches the sauce without curdling.
How to Serve Creamy Skillet Shrimp with Corn, Pancetta, and Tomatoes
Garnishes
Finish off with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant and visually appealing garnish. The vibrant green contrasts beautifully with the warm hues of the dish, adding a subtle peppery fragrance.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side of crusty bread to mop up the luscious sauce or a fresh garden salad for a crisp counterbalance to the creamy textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant table setting, consider serving in individual cast iron skillets. The rustic charm makes it feel homely yet refined, perfect for both casual family meals and dinner parties alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. This dish retains its flavor wonderfully, making it ideal for next-day meals.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Keep for up to one month for optimal flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to prevent the cream from separating.
FAQs
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Can I substitute the pancetta with bacon?
Absolutely! Bacon is a fantastic substitute and provides a similar smoky depth, though it might have a more robust flavor. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
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What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Large, raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined work best. They maintain their texture better during cooking and absorb the buttery sauce well.
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Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
Yes, canned or frozen corn can be used as a substitute. While fresh corn offers a crisper texture, canned corn provides convenience and similar sweetness.
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Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?
Coconut cream or a plant-based cream can be used for a dairy-free version, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This “Creamy Skillet Shrimp with Corn, Pancetta, and Tomatoes” is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of sumptuous flavors and varied textures. I can’t wait for you to try this dish and experience its magic. Enjoy the journey of cooking it and the joy it’ll bring to your table!
Print
Creamy Skillet Shrimp with Corn, Pancetta, and Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Skillet Shrimp with Corn, Pancetta, and Tomatoes is a quick, flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, crispy pancetta, sweet corn, and juicy cherry tomatoes in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it comes together in just 20 minutes, delivering a satisfying and restaurant-quality meal straight from your skillet.
Ingredients
Meat and Seafood
- 1 (4-ounce) package diced pancetta
- 1 1/4 pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Fruit
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4 ears)
Dairy
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasonings and Oils
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Herbs
- Fresh basil leaves, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pancetta:Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat; add the diced pancetta and cook, stirring often, until browned and crisp, about 7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve the drippings in the skillet.
- Cook the shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet with the pancetta drippings. Cook, flipping once, until opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the shrimp to a medium bowl and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Cook the vegetables: Without wiping the skillet clean, add the cherry tomatoes; cook over medium-high heat, stirring and shaking the pan occasionally, until tomatoes begin to burst, about 3 minutes. Add the corn and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 2 minutes.
- Finish the dish: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently mix. Serve immediately, garnished with pancetta and basil leaves if using.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute fresh cherry tomatoes with halved larger tomatoes if desired.
- You can add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness before serving.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a side of rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
