Honey Butter Skillet Corn

written by :
Eliza Nooman
Honey Butter Skillet Corn

When it comes to side dishes that effortlessly blend simplicity with indulgent flavor, honey butter skillet corn stands out as a top contender. This dish marries the natural sweetness of corn with the rich, creamy notes of butter and cream cheese, all elevated by a touch of honey. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or seeking to elevate a weekday meal, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

If you’re someone who appreciates dishes that are both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this honey butter skillet corn is tailored for you. Its quick preparation time makes it ideal for busy individuals, while its rich taste ensures it feels special enough for celebratory occasions. Moreover, its versatility allows it to complement a wide range of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian entrees.

Today, we’re making honey butter skillet corn—a lighter take on classic creamed corn, with a hint of sweetness from honey. This easy recipe transforms simple corn into a rich, buttery side dish using just four ingredients, plus a touch of salt and pepper.

Corn: Utilize a 16-ounce bag of frozen corn for convenience. Alternatively, fresh corn kernels from about 5 ears can be used, especially during peak season.​

Butter: Two tablespoons of salted butter provide a savory depth. If using unsalted butter, consider adding a pinch more salt to balance the flavors.

Honey: One to two tablespoons, depending on your desired level of sweetness.

Cream Cheese: Two ounces, cut into small chunks, contribute to the dish’s creamy texture.

Salt and Pepper: To season according to your taste preferences.

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the following equipment on hand:

  • Skillet: A medium to large non-stick or cast-iron skillet.​
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and combining ingredients effectively.​

Melt the Butter: Place your skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely, creating a rich base for the corn.

Cook the Corn: Add the corn kernels to the skillet. If using frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw beforehand. Cook for approximately 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and any excess liquid has evaporated.

Incorporate Creaminess and Sweetness: Introduce the cream cheese chunks and honey to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for another 3-5 minutes until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture achieves a creamy consistency.

Garnish and Serve: Once the desired texture is reached, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the corn to a serving dish and, if desired, garnish with your choice of fresh herbs. Serve immediately to enjoy its optimal flavor and texture.

Honey butter skillet corn is a deliciously simple side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Its sweet and buttery flavor complements grilled meats like chicken, steak, or barbecue ribs, while also working beautifully with vegetarian dishes like mac and cheese or roasted vegetables. Whether served alongside warm cornbread, fluffy dinner rolls, or a fresh salad, this creamy and flavorful corn dish adds a comforting touch to any meal.

Make It Creamier – For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or an extra tablespoon of cream cheese.

Use Fresh Corn When Possible – While frozen corn is convenient, fresh corn off the cob adds extra sweetness and a crisp texture.

Sauté for Extra Flavor – Lightly browning the corn in butter before adding other ingredients enhances its natural sweetness and adds a slight caramelized taste.

Adjust the Sweetness – Start with a small amount of honey and add more to taste. If you prefer a more savory flavor, reduce the honey and add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika.

Should you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, a microwave can be used for reheating in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

1. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes! Drain and rinse canned corn before using it. Since it’s already cooked, reduce the cooking time to avoid over-softening the kernels.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover honey butter skillet corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little butter if needed.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free butter and replace the cream cheese with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative. The honey can also be swapped with maple syrup for a different flavor twist.

4. How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. A drizzle of hot honey is another great way to balance sweetness with heat.

5. What dishes pair well with honey butter skillet corn?
This dish goes well with grilled chicken, steak, BBQ ribs, fried fish, mac and cheese, cornbread, and fresh salads. It’s a versatile side that complements both hearty and light meals.

Honey butter skillet corn is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of corn with a rich, buttery finish. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, hearty comfort foods, or fresh salads, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. Try it for your next family dinner or holiday gathering, and don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and add-ins to make it your own. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and subscribe for more easy and delicious recipes!

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Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Honey Butter Skillet Corn


  • Author: Eliza Nooman
  • Total Time: 15 mins

Description

Creamy, buttery, and slightly sweet, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn is an easy and delicious side dish made with just a few ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (10 oz.) packages frozen cornthawed
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 4 tablespoons cream cheesesoftened
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. In a 10″ skillet over medium heat, saute the corn until soft and heated through, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add butter and honey and stir to mix until they melt smoothly into the corn.
  3. Add cream cheese and season with salt and pepper. Stir to incorporate until the cream cheese has melted into the sauce. Do a taste test and adjust seasonings, if needed.
  4. Dish and serve hot.
  5. Enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 5minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 mins

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 people

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