Name: Maque Choux: A Classic Cajun Side Bursting with Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels; 2 bell peppers (any color), diced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 stalk celery, diced (optional); 2 tablespoons butter or oil; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional); 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional add-ins: sliced sausage or hot sauce; Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Maque Choux: A Classic Cajun Side Bursting with Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Bursting with Cajun flavor — smoky, savory, and slightly sweet from caramelized corn.
Versatile — serve it with chicken, seafood, steak, or as a vegetarian side.
Seasonal yet adaptable — make with fresh summer corn or frozen kernels year-round.
Customizable — keep it creamy, spicy, or add protein for extra heartiness.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
2 bell peppers (any color), diced
1 medium onion, diced
1 stalk celery, diced (optional, traditional in Cajun cooking)
2 tablespoons butter or oil
¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for richness)
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins: sliced sausage or hot sauce
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

directions

Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onions, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the corn kernels and cook for another 5–8 minutes, letting the natural sugars caramelize.
Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Adjust to your preference.
For a creamier version, stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Serve warm, garnished with parsley or green onions.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Use olive oil or plant-based butter.
Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Protein boost: Stir in sliced sausage or shredded chicken.
Cream-free: Skip the cream for a lighter, fresher dish.
Herb twist: Garnish with thyme or basil for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to refresh the texture.

FAQs

Can I make Maque Choux ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it up to a day in advance and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Do I need fresh corn for this recipe?

Fresh corn is ideal, but frozen kernels work just as well and make it a year-round dish.

Can I make Maque Choux dairy-free?

Yes, use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cream or substitute with coconut cream.

What can I serve Maque Choux with?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, seafood, barbecue shrimp, or steak.

Is Maque Choux gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just confirm your Cajun seasoning is certified gluten-free.

Can I make it spicier?

Absolutely. Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños for more heat.

What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or omit it entirely for a lighter version.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe container.

Does Maque Choux need meat?

No, it’s delicious as a vegetarian side, but you can add sausage or chicken for extra flavor.

How can I prevent it from being too watery?

Avoid overcooking the vegetables, and if using frozen corn, thaw and drain it first to remove excess moisture.

Conclusion

Maque Choux is a colorful, flavor-packed Cajun classic that brings warmth and depth to any meal. Whether you make it creamy, spicy, vegetarian, or with added protein, it’s a versatile side that always shines. Easy, quick, and deeply satisfying, this Louisiana staple deserves a spot in your recipe rotation year-round.