You have leftover corn from dinner but it’s not enough to save for another meal. Or maybe, you have some unopened corn in the pantry about to expire.
Times are tough, you don’t want to waste it. What do you do? You can freeze it and use it later or you can use it up asap. Which should you do? What’s the most cost-effective choice?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of freezing canned corn, the best ways to freeze corn and thaw it, and the best uses for previously frozen corn in a can. Then, we’ll also discuss how to use up canned corn without freezing it.
Let’s get started…
Can You Freeze Canned Corn?
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Yes, you can freeze canned corn to extend the shelf life, but it will likely. It will remain safe indefinitely if it is kept frozen at 0°F but for best quality use within 2-3 months.
Can You Freeze Corn In Its Can?
No, never freeze corn in its can. Always, transfer it to another container. Here’s how.
How To Freeze Canned Corn
Step By Step Instructions
- Drain your corn in a colander.
- Transfer your corn kernels into a freezer-safe container or in heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Seal your container or plastic bag. If using a plastic bag, remove as much air as possible before freezing.
- Using a black sharpie, write the date frozen on the bag, or if using a container, write the date on a freezer label.
How Long Does Canned Corn Last In the Freezer?
When frozen at a constant 0°F, canned corn will remain safe to eat forever. However, its quality will decline over time. For the best quality, plan on using your frozen corn within 2 or 3 months.
How To Thaw Canned Corn
When thawing corn, there are a few ways you can do this.
- Toss your frozen corn directly into your dish. This is perfect when you’re making corn chowder or a vegetable soup that’ll be simmering on the stovetop or when you’re using the slow cooker or instant pot.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge. No explanation is needed!
- Thaw by running cold water over it. If you’re in a hurry to thaw your frozen corn, dump your frozen corn into a colander and run cold water over it until it breaks apart. Then reheat.
- Thaw in the microwave. Place your frozen corn in a microwave-safe dish. Defrost in the microwave using your defrost setting or at 50% power until thawed.
- Thaw On The Stovetop. Place your frozen corn in a pot. Cover with water or chicken broth (my favorite). Reheat over medium heat until thawed.
How Many Days In The Refrigerator Does Thawed Canned Corn Last?
When thawed in the fridge and stored properly, previously frozen corn will last up to 3 or 4 days.
If your corn was thawed in the microwave or stovetop, it’s best to use it immediately.
Best Uses For Previously Frozen Canned Corn
Canned corn never has the same crunchy texture as fresh or store-bought frozen corn. It just doesn’t. It’s softer and a little mushier. Freezing it makes it a little softer and mushier so keep this in mind once thawed and the plan on using your corn in cooked dishes such as casseroles, soups, or cornbread.
How To Use Up Leftover Canned Corn Without Freezing It
I find using up canned corn is more cost-effective than freezing it. Whether you have a whole can of corn or just a few leftover spoonfuls, here are my favorite ways to use it up:
- Taco soup. Taco soup is forgiving. It really doesn’t matter whether you add 1/4 cup of corn or a whole can, taco soup is the perfect solution. Don’t like taco soup?
- Vegetable soup. Just like taco soup, vegetable soup is forgiving. It really doesn’t matter how much corn you have.
- Lima Bean Succotash. Succotash is a dish comprised of lima beans and corn.
- Salad Topper. Put leftover corn in the fridge and use it as a salad topper.
- Green Bean Succotash. Mix leftover corn with green beans.
Remember, leftover cooked corn from a can is just that. It has been cooked and canned. You are merely reheating it.
Remember, corn in a can undergoes texture changes each time it is reheated so keep that in mind when deciding how to use up your corn.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Opened Canned Corn Last In The Fridge?
Once opened, the corn will last 3 to 5 days in the fridge if properly stored at or below 40°F.
Does Canned Corn Go Bad?
Yes, canned corn does go bad. If you suspect your corn has gone bad, toss it. A trip to the doctor will cost you a lot more than buying a new can of corn.
How To Tell If Canned Corn Has Expired?
If your can of corn has dents around a seam, has visible rust, the can is swollen or is leaking, toss the can immediately.
Expired corn may have signs of visible mold, changes in color, or may have an “off” smell.
Many times, a can with a small dent (not on a seam) will be fine to eat but I don’t do it. If I find a can in the pantry that is dented, I’ll just toss it.
But, if I drop a can and it gets dented, I’ll immediately transfer it to another container and pop it in the fridge. Then, I’ll plan on using it within 3 to 5 days.
Can You Freeze Creamed Corn?
Yes, you can freeze creamed corn but you do not drain it like you would whole kernel corn. Simply transfer your creamed corn into an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, seal, and date.
Is Unopened Canned Corn Safe To Use After the “Use By” Date On The Can?
Corn in a can that has no signs of damage like dents, rust, or swelling can last years after the “use by” or “expiration” date. But, I don’t push. By this, I mean, I will use cans of corn several months after its expiration date if it has no signs of damage, and looks and smells good once it is opened.
Final Thoughts From Cost-Effective Kitchen
Yes, you can freeze a can of corn. You can thaw it. Then, you can successfully use it in prepared dishes such as casseroles, soups, or cornbread. But, should you?
Is it worth the cost of a freezer bag, your freezer space, or even your time and effort to freeze a can or two of corn? I think not. There are much better uses for your time and money than freezing a can or two of corn.
Instead of freezing a can or two of corn, get creative and use it up!
Do you have any favorite ways to use up a can of corn or a portion of leftover canned corn? If so, I’d love to know!
Until next time…
Kim
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