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Corn and Bacon Side Dish pinterest

Corn and Bacon Side Dish

This side dish perfectly balances sweet corn with savory bacon for a crowd-pleasing favorite. The natural sweetness of fresh corn complements crispy, salty bacon creating a dish that disappears quickly at any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 245 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Slotted Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups fresh corn kernels (from approximately 8 ears) or frozen corn, thawed
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream optional for a creamier version
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. The fat should render completely, creating tiny bacon flavor bombs throughout your dish.
  • Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan and discard the rest.
  • Add the diced onion to the bacon fat and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add corn kernels to the skillet, stirring well to coat in the flavorful mixture. If using frozen corn, cook for an additional 2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
  • Add butter, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. If making the creamy version, pour in the heavy cream now. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the flavors meld and the corn reaches your desired tenderness.
  • Fold in approximately ¾ of the cooked bacon pieces, reserving some for topping. Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with remaining bacon and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

Vegetarian option: Replace bacon with 1 tablespoon smoked paprika and 2 tablespoons olive oil
Dairy-free version: Use plant-based butter and coconut cream
Frozen corn works perfectly when fresh isn't available—just ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry
Turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative with 65% less fat
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Nutrition

Calories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 7gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 310mgPotassium: 315mgFiber: 3gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 12mg
Keyword Corn, Bacon, Side Dish, Sweet and Savory
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