Fried Corn with Bacon

Sweet golden corn kissed with smoky bacon makes for an irresistible skillet side that always disappears fast at gatherings in my home. This simple fried corn with bacon pairs especially well with summer barbecues or cozy winter meals when you want a touch of warm comfort.

When my kids smell bacon crisping in the pan, they flock to the kitchen. My family first tried this for a Sunday brunch and it became an instant classic—now everyone requests it by name.

Ingredients

• Bacon: This is the backbone of flavor Opt for thick-cut bacon for meaty bites and best results
• Corn kernels: Both fresh and frozen give bright sweetness Try to pick summer ears for peak freshness or reach for frozen to enjoy year-round
• Onion: The onion is optional but transforms the flavor to something even richer Look for yellow or sweet varieties for mellow heat
• Granulated sugar: Just a touch heightens corn’s natural sweetness Pick pure cane sugar for clean flavor
• Salt and black pepper: Both are crucial to balance savory with sweet Freshly ground black pepper makes the difference
• Chives or green onions: A sprinkle at the end looks beautiful and adds a pop of herbs Choose crisp, deep green ones at the market

Instructions

Crisp the Bacon:

Start by placing diced bacon in a cold skillet so the fat slowly renders out Set the pan over medium heat and let the bacon cook gently stirring occasionally Watch as the bacon changes color and the fat turns liquid When the pieces are mostly rendered increase the heat for a minute or two so the bacon goes golden and crunchy Carefully scoop out the bacon bits with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels Save about a tablespoon of the bacon fat in your pan for flavor

Sauté the Onions (Optional):

If you choose to use onion add it right into the reserved bacon fat in the skillet Let it cook for two to three minutes over medium heat Stir occasionally as the pieces turn translucent and soft breathing life into the base of the dish

Cook the Corn:

Pour the corn kernels into your skillet Sprinkle in the sugar along with a few generous pinches of salt and black pepper Bump up the heat to medium high Keep the kernels moving every few minutes as the corn cooks for eight to ten minutes The corn will start to caramelize and pick up color Pay attention to those golden edges they hold the best flavor

Finish and Serve:

Stir the reserved crispy bacon pieces back into the pan Toss everything gently until the bacon mingles with the corn Take the pan off the heat and shower the top with a handful of chives or green onions if you want Serve it up right away while it’s piping hot and still glistening from the bacon

Corn is hands-down my favorite ingredient here—I love biting into each golden kernel and tasting smoky bacon on every forkful. My youngest once declared this better than French fries while snacking from the skillet after dinner.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftover fried corn keeps well in the fridge for up to three days A quick sauté in a skillet brings it back to life Add a small splash of broth or butter if it seems dry for reheating This dish is just as delicious stirred into scrambled eggs or used as a filling in quesadillas

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Try swapping bacon for diced ham or cooked sausage for a twist Vegetarian version is just as tasty with a spoonful of smoked paprika or roasted red pepper Skip the onion if you want the corn to really shine or use shallots for a gentler bite

Perfect Ways to Serve This

Serve alongside grilled pork chops for a hearty dinner Inside warm corn tortillas with grilled veggies for a quick taco lunch Add a spoonful on top of creamy grits or polenta to upgrade your breakfast game

The Story Behind This Recipe

This recipe started as a creative way to use up leftover farmers market corn one summer One skillet later the entire family was hooked Since then even on winter days a bag of frozen corn brings the taste of summer right back to my table

This skillet side is pure comfort and always gets rave reviews at my table. Try it and see why fried corn with bacon will be a family favorite year-round.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw frozen corn prior to cooking for a similar texture and flavor to fresh kernels.

→ How do I make the bacon extra crispy?

Cook diced bacon over medium heat until the fat renders, then increase the heat to crisp up the pieces before removing them.

→ Is onion necessary in this dish?

Onion is optional but adds mild sweetness and depth. You may leave it out if you prefer.

→ What can I use instead of chives for garnish?

Green onions or even parsley work well as a fresh, flavorful garnish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a skillet to restore flavor and texture.