If you are looking to add a little extra warmth and sweetness to your dinner table, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe is an absolute must-try. Perfectly combining the natural sweetness of corn with the creamy richness of butter and cream cheese, this dish brings comfort and joy in every bite. It’s simple, quick to whip up, and beautifully balances flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a holiday side dish, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe shines with its golden, glossy finish and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe, the ingredients list is delightfully straightforward yet packs a punch. Each item plays a crucial role, from adding creamy texture to infusing a sweet and buttery flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Brings a rich, creamy base that helps meld all the flavors together.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds a natural, floral sweetness that perfectly complements the corn.
- Frozen sweet corn (16-ounce bag): Convenient and retains great texture, no need to thaw before cooking.
- Cream cheese (2 ounces, cubed): Melts into a velvety creaminess that elevates this dish beyond simple corn.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances the natural flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick of warmth and depth.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Honey
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat, then add the unsalted butter and honey. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and just beginning to bubble. This sweet buttery base is what gives the dish its signature luscious glaze.
Step 2: Add the Corn
Next, toss in the frozen sweet corn straight from the bag. Stir carefully to coat each kernel with that buttery honey mixture. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally so the corn heats evenly without sticking or burning. This step ensures your corn is tender, juicy, and infused with the sweet buttery flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Cream Cheese
Now, add the cubed cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously as the cheese melts into the corn, creating a beautifully creamy texture that takes this side dish to the next level. It’s the secret ingredient that makes this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe irresistibly smooth.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Finally, sprinkle in the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything to combine thoroughly. The salt will brighten the dish, and the pepper adds just the right touch of warmth. Your skillet corn is now ready to serve warm and enjoy.
How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe even more inviting, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and a mild oniony note. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a subtle depth and a gorgeous rosy hue that complements the golden corn beautifully.
Side Dishes
This honey butter corn pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad. It’s flexible enough to dress up a holiday feast or add comfort to a simple weeknight dinner. The creamy sweetness balances savory mains perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an unexpected twist, try serving this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe in individual small cast iron skillets right at the table for a rustic, cozy look. You can also scoop it into warm tortillas for a quick side taco or spoon it over freshly toasted bread as a sweet, creamy bruschetta topping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers from your Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. The corn will keep well for up to 3 days while still retaining much of its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing is possible, but keep in mind that the creamy texture may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the corn in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the corn gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring often and adding a small splash of milk or butter if it seems dry. This restores the luscious creaminess and brings the comforting flavors back to life without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or canned corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn will add a slight crunch and sweetness, while canned corn should be drained well to prevent watery results. Both work beautifully in this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
This recipe uses butter and cream cheese, so it’s not vegan as is. However, you can substitute vegan butter and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make it vegan-friendly with similar creamy and sweet flavors.
Can I add spices or herbs to this dish?
Yes! Adding smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or fresh herbs like thyme and parsley can add personal flair and deepen the flavor profile of your Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe.
How long does it take to cook this recipe?
From start to finish, it takes about 15 minutes—5 minutes to prep and roughly 10 minutes to cook. This quick turn-around makes it a perfect last-minute, flavorful side dish.
What can I serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe?
This dish pairs marvelously with grilled or roasted meats, barbecue, baked potatoes, and fresh salads. Its creamy sweetness complements many hearty mains wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
If you want a side dish that feels both homey and just a bit special, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe is a winner every time. It’s incredibly simple, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and delivers on rich, sweet, and creamy satisfaction. I encourage you to give it a try and watch this humble corn dish become a beloved staple at your table.
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Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delicious and creamy side dish made by cooking sweet corn with butter, honey, and cream cheese in a skillet. This simple, quick recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with the rich flavors of honey and butter, resulting in a comforting dish perfect for any meal or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen sweet corn (no need to thaw)
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Honey: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and honey together until smooth and bubbling, creating a rich and flavorful base.
- Add Corn: Add the frozen sweet corn to the skillet and stir well to evenly coat the kernels with the honey butter mixture.
- Cook Corn: Cook the corn for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is thoroughly heated through and tender.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Add the cream cheese cubes to the skillet and stir continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Season and Combine: Season the skillet corn with salt and black pepper, stirring well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Serve Warm: Remove from heat and serve the honey butter skillet corn warm as a delicious side dish to complement your meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
- Substitute frozen corn with fresh or canned corn if preferred (drained if canned).
