If you adore sweet and buttery comfort food, you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe. It’s a luscious blend of creamy textures and sticky-sweet flavors that come together in one unforgettable skillet dish. The simple magic happens when frozen corn meets melting butter, rich honey, and a touch of cream cheese, resulting in a golden, glossy side that’s perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday tables. This dish brings warmth and a bit of nostalgia in every bite, making it a must-have in your recipe arsenal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t underestimate these straightforward ingredients; each one plays a vital role to create that perfectly balanced Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe. You’ll find that their combination offers a delightful harmony of sweetness, creaminess, and subtle seasoning that elevates simple corn to new heights.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds rich, creamy flavor and helps the honey melt smoothly without burning.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Provides natural sweetness and a beautiful glossy coating on the corn.
- 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen corn, thawed: Convenient and versatile, frozen corn keeps this recipe easy year-round.
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes: Brings luscious creaminess and a silky texture that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the subtle sweetness.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Honey
Start by placing your skillet over medium heat and combine the butter and honey. Let them melt together, stirring gently until you have a smooth, bubbling mixture. This golden base is the secret to that beautiful sheen and sweet aroma that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 2: Add and Cook the Corn
Once your honey butter is ready, add the thawed corn right into the skillet. Stir the kernels so they’re evenly coated in the mixture. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring now and then, allowing the corn to heat through and develop lovely, lightly golden spots. This toasting step adds a warm, slightly caramelized flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Stir in the Cream Cheese
Next, toss in those small cubes of cream cheese and stir continuously until they fully melt into the corn. The cream cheese isn’t just an indulgent addition — it creates a rich, glossy finish that makes the corn extra decadent and smooth on the palate.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to bring out all the natural sweetness and balance the richness. Adjust these seasonings according to your taste; a little pinch goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor profile.
How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Garnishes
To make this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe even more special, consider sprinkling some freshly chopped green onions or a dash of smoked paprika on top. These simple garnishes add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor that compliments the buttery sweetness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish is a fantastic companion for grilled meats, barbecue, or classic American comfort foods like fried chicken or mashed potatoes. The sweet and creamy profile of this skillet corn balances smoky and savory main dishes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your honey butter corn in a rustic cast iron skillet straight to the table for a charming, homey feel. Alternatively, spoon it into small ramekins for individual portions at a party or family gathering. Pairing it with fresh herbs or a wedge of lime can add brightness and a fun twist to the presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or additions to future meals.
Freezing
While freezing is an option, it’s best to consume the Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe fresh because the cream cheese can slightly change texture after freezing. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within a month for optimal flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave to maintain the creamy texture. Stir occasionally to ensure the cream cheese melds back into the mix smoothly without separating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn off the cob is fantastic in this recipe, especially during summer. Just roast or boil the corn and then add it to the skillet as directed for an even sweeter, crunchier bite.
Is there a dairy-free option for the cream cheese?
Definitely. You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or even coconut cream for a different but equally delicious creamy finish.
Can I add spices to the Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe?
Yes! A pinch of smoked paprika, a sprinkle of chili powder, or even a little cayenne pepper can add a nice kick and contrast to the sweet elements. Just start with a small amount to keep the balance right.
How sweet is this dish? Is it dessert-like?
It has a wonderful sweet-savory balance thanks to the honey and seasoning. It’s definitely a side dish rather than a dessert, with the butter and cream cheese grounding the corn in savory richness.
Can this recipe be doubled or halved easily?
Yes, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe is very flexible. Adjust the quantities as needed, and just be sure to cook over medium heat to avoid burning the honey butter as you increase the volume.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying the Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe enough — it’s one of those dishes that brings pure joy to the table with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking to jazz up dinner or add a sweet, creamy side that everyone will rave about, this recipe is your new go-to. Give it a whirl, and watch it become a cherished staple in your kitchen before you know it!
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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 delightful and creamy side dish featuring sweet corn cooked in a luscious blend of butter and honey, then enriched with cream cheese for a glossy finish. Perfect as an easy summer accompaniment, this recipe delivers sweet, savory flavors with a comforting texture that pairs well with a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen corn, thawed
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Honey: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and honey together until smooth and bubbling, creating a sweet and rich base for the corn.
- Cook Corn: Add the thawed corn to the skillet and stir well to coat all the kernels evenly in the honey butter mixture. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and develops lightly golden spots.
- Add Cream Cheese: Incorporate the cream cheese cubes into the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese melts fully and blends into the corn, resulting in a creamy, glossy coating.
- Season and Serve: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Serve the honey butter skillet corn hot as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For added flavor, stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or a handful of chopped green onions for a subtle smoky or fresh onion note.
- This dish can also be made with fresh corn off the cob during summer months for an extra sweet and fresh taste.
