Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
If you’re searching for a delightfully simple yet utterly irresistible side dish, look no further than Honey Butter Skillet Corn. Sweet, creamy, and packed with golden kernels, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into a standout sensation that steals the show at any table. With a perfect blend of honey’s natural sweetness and the luscious embrace of butter and cream cheese, this skillet corn is guaranteed to become a frequent request from family and friends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of pantry staples is all that stands between you and a big helping of warm, buttery comfort. Every ingredient plays a starring role in Honey Butter Skillet Corn, from the slight tang of cream cheese to the rich, sunshiny flavor of honey. Here’s why each is essential:
- Butter (2 tablespoons, salted): Lays the foundation with a savory, creamy base that enhances the sweetness of the corn and honey.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Delivers a floral, golden sweetness without overpowering—this is what puts the “honey butter” in Honey Butter Skillet Corn!
- Frozen Corn (1 bag, 16 oz): Fuss-free and consistently tasty year-round. Frozen corn retains its peak freshness and pops with vibrant color.
- Cream Cheese (2 ounces, cut into chunks): Melts into sheer creaminess, boosting the silkiness of the sauce and giving a touch of tang.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brings out the sweetness and rounds out all the lovely flavors.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a gentle kick and balance, so the dish doesn’t veer too sweet.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Step 1: Sizzle the Butter and Honey
Place a skillet over medium-high heat and toss in the butter and honey. As they melt together, your kitchen will fill with the most mouthwatering aroma—sweet, creamy, and slightly toasty. Stir occasionally to blend into a glossy, golden pool.
Step 2: Add the Corn
Once your butter and honey are perfectly melted, add the frozen corn straight into the skillet. Give everything a good stir, letting the kernels soak up those flavors. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is cooked through and perfectly hot.
Step 3: Stir in Cream Cheese, Salt, and Pepper
Now for the magic touch: add your cream cheese chunks, along with the salt and black pepper. Stir it all together until the cream cheese melts into a dreamy sauce, turning your corn luscious and creamy. Let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring every so often, until everything is glossy and irresistible.
Step 4: Serve with Joy
Remove your skillet from the heat and transfer the Honey Butter Skillet Corn to a serving bowl while it’s still piping hot and glossy. It’s ready to steal the show at your next meal!
How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Garnishes
Finishing touches make all the difference. Try scattering some chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color, or sprinkle with a bit of smoked paprika for depth. A light dusting of extra black pepper can give a little extra zing as well.
Side Dishes
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is the ultimate crowd-pleaser on any plate. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, baked ham, seared steak, or even alongside summer BBQ fare like grilled sausages or burgers. Don’t forget a green salad to round out the meal with some crisp freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this corn family-style in the skillet for a rustic, cozy feel, or pile it into individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. For potlucks, double the recipe and serve in a slow cooker to keep it warm and creamy throughout your gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn keeps beautifully—just transfer it to an airtight container and stash in the fridge. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to three days, ready for quick lunches or dinner sides.
Freezing
If you’d like to have this buttery gem on hand for busier days, you can freeze it! Let the corn cool completely before spooning into freezer-safe containers or bags. Lay flat for easy stacking, and it will keep well for up to two months.
Reheating
To bring back that just-cooked magic, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of milk or a pat of butter to revive the creaminess if it looks a little thick.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or canned corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn cut off the cob in summertime gives this dish a wonderful pop, while drained canned corn works just as well for a convenient option; just keep an eye on the cook time, as both will need a little less than frozen.
Does unsalted butter work for this recipe?
Yes, unsalted butter is perfectly fine—just consider adding a pinch more salt, since the original flavor relies on a little savory balance to contrast the honey’s sweetness.
Can I make Honey Butter Skillet Corn ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the dish as written, store it covered in the fridge, and gently reheat before serving. It keeps its creamy consistency beautifully and is a lifesaver during busy holiday meal prep.
What kind of cream cheese should I use?
Full-fat cream cheese gives the richest texture, but you can absolutely use reduced-fat versions if you prefer. Just avoid whipped cream cheese spreads, as they can make the sauce a bit too loose or grainy.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes, Honey Butter Skillet Corn is naturally gluten free, given these simple ingredients—just double check any packaged items to be sure, depending on your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
This is one of those recipes that always surprises guests with its creamy sweetness and bold, buttery flavor. Trust me when I say, once you try Honey Butter Skillet Corn, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your side dish rotation. Gather your ingredients, grab your favorite skillet, and prepare to fall in love with every luscious spoonful!
Print
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and flavorful delight of Honey Butter Skillet Corn. This dish combines the sweetness of honey, the creaminess of butter and cream cheese, and the crunch of corn for a truly satisfying side dish.
Ingredients
For the Honey Butter Skillet Corn:
- 2 tablespoons butter (salted)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn
- 2 ounces cream cheese (cut into chunks)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Honey: In a skillet pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter and honey. Add the frozen corn and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until cooked through.
- Add Cream Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn immediately. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge, covered in a container.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Honey Butter Skillet Corn, Corn Side Dish, Creamy Corn Recipe
