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Fried Corn with Bacon

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This easy Southern skillet side dish features sweet corn caramelized in smoky bacon drippings, tossed with crispy bacon bits and a hint of butter. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing comfort food perfect for weeknights, barbecues, or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 slices bacon (about 6 oz), chopped
  • 4 cups corn kernels (from 6 large ears, or frozen/canned, drained)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or green onion), for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Chop bacon, dice onion and bell pepper, and mince garlic. If using fresh corn, slice kernels off the cob.
  2. Place bacon in a cold large skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crispy (5-7 minutes). Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Leave 2 tablespoons bacon grease in skillet.
  3. Add butter to skillet with bacon fat. Sauté onion and bell pepper (if using) for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high. Add corn kernels. Season with sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until corn is tender and caramelized (7-8 minutes).
  5. Return bacon to skillet and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use fresh corn in season. Frozen or canned corn works well year-round. Cook bacon slowly for crispiness and use the drippings for extra flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure caramelization. Add fresh herbs or smoked paprika for a flavor boost. For vegetarian or dairy-free adaptations, omit bacon and butter or use plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried corn, bacon, southern side dish, skillet corn, comfort food, easy recipe, summer corn, gluten-free, quick side, brunch

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