Mission BBQ-Style Smokehouse Creamed Corn: A Crowd-Pleasing BBQ Side Dish in 15 Minutes

Mission BBQ-Style Smokehouse Creamed Corn

If you’ve ever enjoyed the sides at Mission BBQ, you know they take classic American comfort food to the next level. Today, we’re creating a homemade smokehouse creamed corn inspired by the flavors you’d find at your favorite barbecue joint. This rich, creamy side dish pairs perfectly with smoked meats and captures that authentic barbecue restaurant experience right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Mission BBQ-Inspired Side Dish

There’s something special about barbecue restaurant sides – they’re comforting, flavorful, and complement the main attraction perfectly. This creamed corn recipe:

• Takes just 15 minutes to prepare from start to finish
• Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
• Delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort
• Pairs perfectly with smoked meats for an authentic BBQ experience
• Impresses guests at your next cookout or family dinner

Ingredients for Smokehouse Creamed Corn

• 4 cups (20 ounces) frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional but recommended)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Crispy bacon bits (optional, for garnish)

BBQ Restaurant-Style Preparation

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until butter is melted.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add thawed corn kernels to the skillet and stir to coat with the butter mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Stir until cheeses are melted and mixture is smooth.
6. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, liquid smoke (if using), brown sugar, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir to combine.
7. Allow mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
8. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to pulse a few times, leaving plenty of whole corn kernels for texture.
9. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh parsley and crispy bacon bits if desired.

Pitmaster Tips for Perfect Smokehouse Corn

Want to make this creamed corn even more like what you’d get at Mission BBQ? Try these expert tips:

• Add some heat: Mix in a finely diced jalapeño with the onions or add a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick
• Enhance the smoke flavor: Use smoked salt instead of regular salt
• Make it meaty: Stir in 1/4 cup of pulled pork or chopped brisket ends
• Crisp it up: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes
• Slow-cooker method: After sautéing onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours for a “kept warm all day” BBQ restaurant effect

What to Serve with Your Mission BBQ-Inspired Corn

This smokehouse creamed corn is the perfect side dish for:

• Smoked brisket
• Pulled pork
• Baby back ribs
• Smoked chicken
• Grilled sausages

Round out your BBQ feast with other classic sides like coleslaw, mac and cheese, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete Mission BBQ-style experience at home.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This smokehouse creamed corn can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month (though texture may change slightly)
• Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess
• Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 days before your BBQ event and reheat when ready to serve

The Perfect Mission BBQ Inspired Side Dish

Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or just craving the flavors of your favorite BBQ joint, this smokehouse creamed corn delivers that authentic Mission BBQ experience. The combination of sweet corn, creamy texture, and smoky flavors creates a side dish that honors the tradition of great American barbecue while being simple enough for any home cook to master.

Recipe adapted from Cream Corn Like No Other