Honey Butter Skillet Corn – The Ultimate Creamy Side Dish
Looking for a quick and easy side dish that’s packed with flavor, comfort, and just the right touch of sweetness? Look no further than this Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe. It takes simple ingredients and turns them into a dish that’s buttery, creamy, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
But before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s talk about why this recipe works so well, and why you might just want to make it over and over again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 15 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Simple ingredients – You likely already have everything in your kitchen.
- Sweet and savory – The combination of honey and butter creates a balanced flavor.
- Creamy texture – Thanks to the cream cheese, this corn is rich and smooth.
- Kid-friendly – Even picky eaters will come back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons butter (salted preferred) – Adds richness and a savory base.
- 2 tablespoons honey – Brings out the natural sweetness of the corn.
- 1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn – No need to thaw. Fresh or canned corn works too.
- 2 ounces cream cheese (cut into chunks) – Makes the dish creamy and comforting.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds just a touch of spice.
Optional Add-ons: You can stir in chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), a dash of cayenne for heat, or shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Honey
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and honey. Let them melt together, stirring occasionally. The aroma alone will start drawing people into the kitchen!
Pro Tip: Use high-quality honey and real butter for the best flavor. You can also brown the butter slightly for a deeper, nuttier taste.
Step 2: Cook the Corn
Once the butter and honey are fully melted, pour in the frozen corn. Stir well so that the corn gets evenly coated. Cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is fully heated through. You’ll notice it becoming tender, glossy, and slightly caramelized.
No frozen corn? Fresh or canned corn works great too. If using canned, be sure to drain it first.
Step 3: Add Cream Cheese and Seasonings
Add the chunks of cream cheese, salt, and pepper directly into the skillet. Stir gently to combine. Allow everything to cook together for another 3–5 minutes, stirring until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Texture Tip: Don’t overcook – you want the corn to stay slightly crisp for the best texture.
How to Serve It
This honey butter skillet corn pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, holiday turkey, or even just a bowl of rice. It’s also a fantastic addition to summer BBQs, potlucks, and weeknight dinners.
Serve it hot, straight from the skillet. If you’re hosting guests, sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, or microwave for 30–60 seconds, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
Nutritional Benefits of Corn
Besides being delicious, corn is:
- High in fiber – Supports digestion and keeps you full.
- Packed with antioxidants – Like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health.
- Naturally gluten-free – Making it a safe choice for gluten-sensitive diets.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best For: Side dish, potlucks, BBQs, holidays
Variations to Try
- Add chopped bacon or ham for a meaty twist.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.
- Stir in diced bell peppers or jalapeños for a little crunch and spice.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is more than just a side dish – it’s comfort in a pan. It’s fast, flexible, and flavorful, and it might just become your new favorite way to serve corn. Perfect for all seasons, this recipe belongs in your rotation year-round.
Have you tried this recipe?
Leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Did you add your own twist? We’d love to hear about it!