If you love the comforting flavors of sweet corn combined with the rich, velvety goodness of butter and honey, then you are absolutely going to fall head over heels for this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe. It takes simple ingredients that you probably already have and turns them into a creamy, luscious side dish bursting with warmth and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for any weeknight dinner or holiday feast, this recipe is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role: buttery richness, natural sweetness, a little creamy tang, and just enough seasoning to wake up your taste buds. Here’s what you’ll gather for this easy, satisfying dish.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy base that helps develop that signature golden gloss on the corn.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Brings natural sweetness and helps caramelize the corn for a delightful flavor burst.
- 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen corn or about 3 cups fresh kernels: The star ingredient, providing the tender, juicy texture and sweet corn flavor.
- 2 ounces cream cheese (cut into cubes): Creates a creamy coating that elevates this side dish to pure indulgence.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the natural sweetness of the corn.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the sweetness and round out the taste.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Honey
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and honey together and let them melt until the mixture bubbles gently. This step is magic because it creates a luscious glaze that wraps around each corn kernel perfectly.
Step 2: Add Corn and Cook
Next, pour in your corn—whether frozen or fresh—and stir it well to coat all those kernels in the buttery honey goodness. Allow the corn to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often. You’ll notice it starts to heat through and gets just a little caramelized, deepening the flavor beautifully.
Step 3: Stir in Cream Cheese and Seasonings
Now, add the cream cheese cubes along with the salt and black pepper. Stir everything continuously until the cream cheese melts and forms a silky sauce that envelops the corn. This final step transforms the dish into a creamy, dreamy side that’s irresistible.
Step 4: Serve Warm
Once everything is perfectly combined and glossy, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe warm to enjoy its full, comforting flavor and creamy texture.
How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Garnishes
To add visual appeal and an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of your skillet corn. A dash of crispy fried onions or a few crumbles of smoked paprika can also bring a lovely contrast in texture and taste.
Side Dishes
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe makes a fantastic companion to grilled chicken, juicy pork chops, or tender steak. It’s also a cozy side for classic comfort dishes like meatloaf or roasted vegetables. The creamy sweetness balances savory mains wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the skillet corn in a warm cast iron skillet right at the table for a rustic, inviting presentation. For gatherings, spoon it into mini ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers to wow your guests with both taste and charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it before sealing to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s not ideal for this dish due to the cream cheese and butter, which can alter texture after thawing. If you must, freeze in a sealed container for up to one month and expect some slight separation.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of milk or a tiny bit of butter if it feels too thick or dry. Microwave reheating works well too, but use medium power and stir halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of frozen or fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to drain the canned corn well to prevent the dish from becoming watery. It’s a convenient substitute that still tastes great.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it safe for those avoiding gluten.
Can I add spices to give it a kick?
Definitely! A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a lovely spicy contrast to the sweet, creamy base.
What if I want it less sweet?
Simply reduce the amount of honey or omit it altogether. You could also add more black pepper or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to balance out the sweetness.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 4 generous servings, making it perfect for a small family dinner or a side for four people.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that’s effortless to whip up any day of the week. With its inviting aroma, rich creaminess, and just the right touch of honey sweetness, it’s a side dish that feels truly special. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new favorite go-to comfort food!
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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, Gluten Free
Description
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a quick and delicious side dish featuring tender corn kernels cooked in a rich, creamy honey butter sauce. With a perfect balance of sweetness from honey and a hint of savory cream cheese, this skillet corn is an easy, crowd-pleasing accompaniment for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen corn (or about 3 cups fresh corn kernels)
- 2 ounces cream cheese (cut into cubes)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat Butter and Honey: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and honey together until bubbly, creating a sweet and rich base for the corn.
- Add and Cook Corn: Add the corn to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the honey butter mixture. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and begins to slightly caramelize, enhancing its natural sweetness.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese and Seasonings: Add the cream cheese cubes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted and the corn is evenly coated in a creamy, glossy sauce.
- Serve Warm: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the honey butter corn immediately while warm as a delightful side dish.
Notes
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet along with the cream cheese.
- If fresh or frozen corn is not available, canned corn (drained) can be used as a substitute with good results.
- To enhance creaminess, use full-fat cream cheese.
