As the summer sun begins to dip below the horizon, the kitchen fills with warmth and the irresistible aroma of Maque Choux. This dish is not just a recipe; it transports me back to lazy afternoons spent with friends, where laughter mingles with the sizzle of bacon and the joyful crunch of fresh corn. I discovered this delightful southern classic while searching for a way to elevate my weeknight meals, and it’s been a staple ever since.
With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a comforting skillet meal that’s bursting with flavor and personality. The vibrant colors of bell peppers and the subtle heat from jalapeños come together in a creamy, savory harmony that is bound to please even the toughest critics at your table. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo—no more boring takeout or repetitive weeknight routines! Let’s dive into the recipe that turns any evening into a celebration of home-cooked goodness.
Why is Maque Choux a Must-Try Dish?
Bold flavors come together in this delightful skillet dish, making it a must-try for anyone craving comfort food. Quick cooking time of just 15 minutes means you can enjoy a gourmet experience without the hassle. Versatile enough to pair with chicken, steak, or serve as a standalone meal! You’ll also love how crowd-pleasing it is, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet while ditching processed fast food. Ready to impress? Dive into this delicious adventure!
Ingredients for Maque Choux
• A delicious medley awaits you!
For the Skillet Base
• Medium green or red bell pepper – adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
• 1/2 medium sweet onion – enhances the flavor with its mild sweetness when sautéed.
• Small jalapeño pepper – brings a subtle kick of heat; feel free to adjust based on your preference!
• 2 cloves garlic – infuses the dish with aromatic depth; use fresh for best flavor.
For the Main Ingredients
• 2 cups fresh or unthawed frozen corn kernels – the star of the show, bringing sweetness and texture.
• 3 slices bacon (about 3 ounces) – delivers a smoky, savory richness that elevates the dish immensely.
• 2 teaspoons Creole or Cajun seasoning – adds warmth and complexity, making your Maque Choux truly unforgettable.
For the Creamy Finish
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – creates a luscious sauce that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Maque Choux
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Dice the Veggies: Begin by dicing the medium bell pepper and sweet onion and adding them to a large bowl. This colorful combination adds a sweet crunch that makes your Maque Choux pop!
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Chop the Jalapeño: Halve the jalapeño and finely chop it, removing the seeds and ribs if you prefer a milder heat. Toss this into the bowl with the other veggies to create a balanced flavor.
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Add Garlic: Finely chop the garlic cloves and add them to the vegetable mix. The fresh aroma of garlic will enhance the dish beautifully!
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Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, remove the husks and cut the kernels off the cobs, placing the kernels in a small bowl. Fresh corn will provide sweet juiciness that’s unbeatable!
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Dice the Bacon: Cut the bacon slices into small pieces. This step ensures that you get delicious, crispy bits throughout your Maque Choux!
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Cook the Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chopped bacon until crisp, about 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
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Sauté the Veggies: Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat from the skillet. Add the onion mixture and sprinkle in the Creole or Cajun seasoning. Cook over medium heat until the veggies are softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
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Add the Corn: Stir in the corn kernels and cook until tender and warmed through, about 1 to 2 minutes. The bright yellow corn will become a delightful star in your skillet!
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Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and cook until warmed through, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This creamy finish brings everything together and enhances the flavors!
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Top and Serve: Finally, sprinkle the crisped bacon over the skillet and serve warm. Your Maque Choux is ready to be enjoyed by all!
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Maque Choux
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through for best flavor retention.
Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the texture.
Reheating: When reheating, avoid high heat to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir occasionally until the dish is heated evenly and enjoy the creamy goodness all over again!
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Maque Choux are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the bell pepper, onion, and jalapeño up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this will enhance their flavors while keeping them crisp. You can also cook the bacon and store it separately, so it stays crispy. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped vegetables with the cooked bacon and corn, then finish by adding the heavy cream for a creamy texture that’s just as delightful. This way, with minimal effort, you can enjoy a comforting skillet meal any night of the week!
What to Serve with Maque Choux?
Round out your meal and delight your taste buds with beautiful pairings that complement the rich and creamy corn and bacon dish.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds a savory protein boost, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor while keeping things light and fresh.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread provides a delightful crunch and buttery flavor, perfect for scooping up every last bite of your Maque Choux.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant garden salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the creamy skillet dish, awakening the palate.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and fluffy cornbread muffins echo the corn flavor, adding a comforting touch that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the dish.
- Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed greens, like kale or spinach, offer a nutritious balance, brightening up the plate while adding a lovely splash of color.
- Chilled White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can elevate the meal, complementing the creaminess and enhancing the overall experience.
- Chocolate Pudding Cups: For dessert, creamy chocolate pudding cups provide a rich, sweet finale that contrasts delightfully with the savory goodness of Maque Choux.
- Pickled Vegetables: Adding a small helping of tangy pickled vegetables introduces a zing that cuts through the richness, creating a complex flavor profile.
Variations & Substitutions for Maque Choux
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this dish your own! The beauty of Maque Choux is its adaptability to suit every palate.
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Vegetarian: Replace bacon with 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika and a splash of liquid smoke for that savory flavor without meat. This will keep the essence while making it plant-based.
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Vegan: Opt for vegan cream and substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor and satisfying texture. You’ll enjoy the rich creaminess with a plant-friendly twist!
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Spice Level: Add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat to suit your taste buds. Just remember, a little heat goes a long way, so add gradually!
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Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro just before serving to add a refreshing pop of flavor that brightens the dish beautifully. Each herb brings its unique charm to the mix!
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Cheesy Goodness: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, while the cream is heating through. This will create a luscious, cheesy texture that elevates the comfort level.
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Corn Variety: Try using different types of corn, such as sweet white corn or even roasted corn for that extra depth of flavor. Each bite will showcase a hint of summer sweetness.
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Southern Twist: Incorporate sliced okra for a real Southern experience. Sauté the okra along with the onions for a unique texture that complements the other ingredients wonderfully!
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Savory Additions: Mix in diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and flavor. The bright hues enhance both the visual appeal and the overall taste of your dish!
Expert Tips for Maque Choux
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Fresh Corn Rule: Always use fresh corn when possible—its sweetness elevates the entire dish. If using frozen, ensure it’s unthawed for optimal texture.
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Bacon Decisions: Choose thick-cut bacon for extra flavor. Avoid overcooking it, as you want it crisp but not burnt, to maintain its smoky richness.
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Seasoning Balance: Adjust the Creole or Cajun seasoning based on your spice tolerance. Start with less, adding more gradually to control the heat in your Maque Choux.
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Creamy Bliss: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. This still provides a rich, creamy texture without being too heavy.
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Veggie Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots to your skillet for extra nutrition and color—keep it exciting!
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Perfect Pairing: Serve your Maque Choux with crusty bread or alongside grilled meats to create a satisfying meal that delights the whole family.
Corn and Bacon Skillet Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select bell peppers for my Corn and Bacon Skillet?
Absolutely! When selecting bell peppers, look for ones that are firm and glossy, with vibrant colors. Avoid any that have dark spots or soft areas. Fresh bell peppers should have a slight crunch upon pressing, indicating ripeness and quality.
How should I store leftovers from my Corn and Bacon Skillet?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, as this preserves the creamy texture.
Can I freeze my Corn and Bacon Skillet?
The more the merrier! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream to enhance the texture.
What can I do if my bacon doesn’t get crispy?
No problem! If your bacon isn’t crisping up, make sure your skillet is preheated sufficiently before adding it. Cook it slowly over medium heat, allowing the fat to render out. If it’s still chewy, try increasing the heat slightly to achieve that desired crispiness without burning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this dish?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using turkey bacon for a lighter option. Additionally, note that this recipe contains dairy from the heavy cream, which may be a concern for those who are lactose intolerant. Swap it out with a non-dairy creamer if needed!
How do I make my Corn and Bacon Skillet spicier or milder?
Very easily! To adjust the spice level, start with less jalapeño and gradually add more to taste, or incorporate a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick. Conversely, if you prefer it milder, simply omit the jalapeño entirely or substitute it with a mild bell pepper to keep the flavor while reducing heat.
Savory Maque Choux with Corn and Bacon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by dicing the medium bell pepper and sweet onion and adding them to a large bowl.
- Halve the jalapeño and finely chop it, removing the seeds and ribs if you prefer a milder heat.
- Finely chop the garlic cloves and add them to the vegetable mix.
- If using fresh corn, remove the husks and cut the kernels off the cobs.
- Cut the bacon slices into small pieces.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chopped bacon until crisp, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat from the skillet and add the onion mixture.
- Add the Creole or Cajun seasoning and cook over medium heat until the veggies are softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in the corn kernels and cook until tender and warmed through, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and cook until warmed through, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Sprinkle the crisped bacon over the skillet and serve warm.