Name: Sweet and Savory Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe Enjoy Today
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 16 oz Frozen Corn (Can substitute with fresh corn or canned corn); 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Salted butter can be used for added flavor); 2 tbsp Honey (Clover honey recommended); 2 tbsp Cream Cheese (Use dairy-free cream cheese for a lighter option); Salt (Adjust to taste); Black Pepper (Adjust to taste)

Stepping into a bustling kitchen, I caught a glimpse of a magical transformation as frozen corn danced in a hot skillet, soon to become the star of my dinner table. Enter Honey Butter Skillet Corn, a delightful side dish that takes just 15 minutes to prepare and delivers a touch of sweetness and creaminess that’s hard to resist. This recipe is more than just a quick fix; it brings together the vibrant flavors of honey and butter, creating a velvety glaze that perfectly embraces each kernel. Whether you’re serving it alongside a weekend roast or sharing it at a family gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite on your culinary roster. Plus, with its versatility, you can easily swap ingredients to customize it to your taste or dietary needs. Ready to elevate your mealtime? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Why is Honey Butter Skillet Corn a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can have a stellar side dish ready to wow your guests. Creamy Texture: The addition of cream cheese results in a luscious, velvety coating that enhances the sweet corn. Adaptable Flavor: Feel free to switch up the ingredients, like using fresh corn or dairy-free cream cheese, making it suitable for various diets. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a family BBQ or holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress. For more delicious side ideas, don’t miss our Creamy Corn Casserole Comfort.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Ingredients

Discover the key components that make this dish a family favorite!

For the Corn

Frozen Corn – The main ingredient for sweetness and texture; feel free to swap with fresh corn off the cob or well-drained canned corn.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; using salted will bring an extra flavor boost.

For the Sauce

Honey – Introduces a delightful sweetness without overwhelming the dish; a mild variety like clover honey works best.
Cream Cheese – Contributes to the creamy glaze when melted; for a lighter option, you can use dairy-free cream cheese.

To Season

Salt – Balances the sweetness; adjust according to taste preferences.
Black Pepper – Adds a subtle kick to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Now you have everything you need to create this glorious Honey Butter Skillet Corn that’s sure to steal the spotlight on your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it begins to foam, creating a golden surface. This should take about 1-2 minutes. The foam signifies that the butter is hot enough, giving the perfect base for the corn.

Step 2: Add the Corn
Next, pour in 16 oz of frozen corn straight from the bag—no need to thaw! Sauté the corn for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the kernels becoming tender and slightly caramelized, developing a delightful sweetness throughout.

Step 3: Stir in Honey
Once the corn is heated through, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of honey. Stir gently to ensure every kernel is coated, allowing the honey to caramelize slightly for a glossy finish. This should take about 2-3 minutes, creating a sweet and savory blend that elevates the dish.

Step 4: Melt in Cream Cheese
Add 2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese to the skillet in small pieces. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely, creating a rich and creamy glaze that envelops the corn. This step should take about 2 minutes, turning your Honey Butter Skillet Corn into a velvety delight.

Step 5: Season & Serve
Finally, season your dish with salt and black pepper to taste, mixing well to incorporate the flavors. Serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn warm directly from the skillet, allowing its vibrant colors and creamy texture to shine on your dinner table as a comforting side dish.

What to Serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn

A delightful side dish, Honey Butter Skillet Corn pairs beautifully with a variety of flavors, making every meal feel special.

Grilled Chicken: Tender, smoky chicken complements the sweetness of the corn, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
BBQ Ribs: The sticky, savory sauce of ribs enhances the honeyed notes in the corn, ensuring a finger-licking good experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant, caramelized veggies add a contrast of textures and earthy flavors that elevate this sweet side dish.
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the velvety richness of the Honey Butter Skillet Corn.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs offers a nutty base that beautifully complements the sweet, buttery corn.
Cornbread Muffins: These fluffy, slightly sweet muffins echo the corn’s sweetness, making for a cozy, comforting combination.
Apple Cider Fizz: A light, refreshing drink like apple cider fizz enhances the sweet undertones of the dish while cleansing the palate.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note; the cookies’ gooeyness pairs wonderfully with the buttery corn for dessert lovers.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Butter Skillet Corn preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the corn mixture (without the cream cheese) up to 24 hours in advance by cooking and sautéing the corn with honey and butter. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. To maintain its delicious flavor, stir well before serving; this helps to keep the corn from becoming watery. Just before serving, reheat the mixture on the stove and add the softened cream cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce. You’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Honey Butter Skillet Corn with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Check Skillet Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the corn to promote caramelization, enhancing the flavor.
Drain Canned Corn: If using canned corn, drain it well to prevent excess moisture from making the dish watery.
Adjust Sweetness: To reduce sweetness for a less sugary profile, consider cutting the honey by half without sacrificing flavor.
Go Dairy-Free: Easily adapt this recipe for a dairy-free diet by substituting vegan butter and cream cheese—still delicious!
Double the Batch: Planning for a gathering? Feel free to double the recipe, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to maintain quality.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Fridge: Store leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezer: You can freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and label with the date. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce and restore the creamy texture.

Room Temperature: For serving at events, keep the corn in a warm dish covered with foil for up to 2 hours at room temperature to maintain its savory goodness.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with Honey Butter Skillet Corn, adjusting the recipe to please your palate!

Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese to enjoy a creamy, indulgent version without the dairy. This twist ensures everyone can savor the dish!
Add Heat: A pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can elevate your corn with a delightful kick, making it a great companion for spicy barbecued meats.
Herbs Galore: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro right before serving to give your corn a refreshing burst and elevate the flavor profile.
Cheesy Goodness: Top with shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese for that extra cheesy touch that melts beautifully into the creamy corn. Creamy cheese rounds out this dish perfectly!
Smoky Flavor: Consider adding smoked paprika or crumbled bacon for a smoky richness that complements the sweetness of the corn so beautifully.
Southwest Style: Incorporate roasted red peppers, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty twist with a delightful kick, perfect for a lively dinner gathering.
Nutty Notes: For a delightful crunch and nuttiness, add toasted pine nuts or chopped pecans before serving; the contrast in texture is simply delightful!
Elevated Sweetness: If you’re in the mood for a sweeter corn dish, try drizzling in a touch of maple syrup along with the honey for a unique twist.

Remember, this dish is all about making it your own! If you love this recipe, don’t forget to check out the Honey Glazed Corn or the delicious Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini for more culinary inspiration!

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen corn, look for bags that are labeled as “sweet” or “premium.” For fresh corn, choose ears with firm, plump kernels and bright green husks. Avoid any with dark spots or a dry husk, as these can indicate maturity and inferior quality. Canned corn should be well-drained to prevent excess moisture—look for those without any added sugars or preservatives.

How should I store leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
To store, place your leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing, as condensation can lead to sogginess. When ready to eat, reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.

Can I freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Yes, you can! Portion your Honey Butter Skillet Corn into freezer-safe containers, label them with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little milk or cream if necessary to restore that luscious, creamy texture.

What if my Honey Butter Skillet Corn is too sweet?
Very! If you find the dish is too sweet for your taste, reduce the amount of honey you use by half the next time you make it. You can also add more black pepper or even a hint of cayenne to balance the sweetness. Another option is to incorporate a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving, which brightens the dish while cutting through the sugariness beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for my dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply swap out the unsalted butter and cream cheese for vegan alternatives. You can easily find great dairy-free butter and cream cheese options in most grocery stores. Additionally, check the honey if you’re avoiding animal products—many brands offer succulent, plant-based substitutes like agave syrup that still bring sweetness!

What are some good variations I can try with this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can customize your Honey Butter Skillet Corn in numerous ways. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist. For a cheesy addition, sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan on top just before serving!