Name: Delicious Honey Butter Skillet Corn for Pure Comfort!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter (use salted for best flavor); 2 tablespoons honey (natural sweetness); 16 ounces frozen corn (or fresh corn if available); 4 ounces cream cheese (cut into chunks); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

As the golden hue of corn kernels glistens in the skillet, a wave of nostalgia washes over me—reminding me of family gatherings where comfort food reigned supreme. Enter Honey Butter Skillet Corn, a heavenly blend of sweet and savory that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful side dish. This recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or festive feasts. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll create a luscious, creamy delight that not only pleases the palate but also serves as a satisfying vegetarian option. Whether pairing with grilled chicken or enjoying it solo, this dish will elevate any meal. Ready to dive into this comforting creation? Let’s get cooking!

What makes this corn dish irresistible?

Simplicity, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn comes together in just a few minutes, making it a go-to side dish for any occasion. Creamy and Sweet, the combination of honey and cream cheese envelops the tender corn in a luscious glaze you’ll crave. Versatile Pairing, whether alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread, it complements a variety of dishes. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort, this dish is sure to be a hit at family gatherings, just like my Sticky Honey Gochujang recipe. Nutrient-Rich, packed with vitamins from fresh corn, comfort food never felt this indulgent yet wholesome! Elevate your meals with this easy yet delicious side that everyone will love.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Ingredients

For the Skillet Dish

Butter – Adds richness and flavor; for the best result, use salted butter for enhanced taste.
Honey – Provides natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor, making this the star of the dish.
Frozen Corn (or corn ribs) – Acts as the main component with a tender texture; a 16 oz bag is convenient for ease of preparation.
Cream Cheese – Contributes creaminess and depth; cut into chunks for easier melting.
Salt – Enhances overall taste while balancing the sweetness of the honey.
Black Pepper – Adds a mild spice to create a wonderful flavor complexity.

Feel the warmth of your kitchen as you gather these simple yet essential ingredients for your Honey Butter Skillet Corn — a comforting side dish waiting to elevate your meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Honey
Begin by placing a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 4 tablespoons of salted butter along with 2 tablespoons of honey. Stir occasionally until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is bubbling gently, forming a sweet aroma in the air. This should take about 2-3 minutes, setting the stage for the delicious Honey Butter Skillet Corn to come.

Step 2: Sauté the Corn
Next, pour in a 16 oz bag of frozen corn (or fresh corn if available) into the skillet. Stir the corn into the honey-butter mixture, ensuring every kernel is coated. Allow the corn to sauté for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the kernels are tender and vibrant in color. You’ll know it’s ready when they begin to slightly caramelize, adding an enticing sweetness to your dish.

Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese and Seasoning
Once the corn is perfectly sautéed, add in 4 oz of cream cheese cut into chunks, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Gently stir the ingredients together for another 3-5 minutes. The heat will help melt the cream cheese, creating a rich and creamy sauce that envelops the corn, enhancing the overall flavor of your Honey Butter Skillet Corn.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
When the cream cheese has fully melted and the mixture is well combined, take the skillet off the heat. Scoop out the creamy Honey Butter Skillet Corn into a serving dish, ensuring it’s hot and ready to delight your guests. This dish is best served immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy its comforting warmth and delectable sweetness right from the stovetop.

Expert Tips for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Use Cast-Iron: A cast-iron skillet enhances the sear and brings out the best flavors in your Honey Butter Skillet Corn.
Stir Occasionally: To prevent the corn from sticking to the skillet and ensure even cooking, remember to stir occasionally while sautéing.
Check Doneness: Look for tender kernels that are well-coated in the creamy glaze; this visual cue indicates your corn is ready to serve.
Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey to control the sweetness level. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store them in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the creaminess intact.

What to Serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Picture this: a warm plate filled with vibrant buttery corn, inviting and ready to complement your main course beautifully.

Grilled Chicken: The charred, smoky flavors of grilled chicken juxtapose perfectly with the sweetness of the corn, creating a delightful balance.
Steak or Pork Chops: Juicy steak or succulent pork chops provide a hearty contrast to the creamy corn, making for a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Roasted Veggies: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies adds a fresh crunch and vibrant colors while enhancing the comfort of the skillet corn.
Tossed Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette brightens the meal, offering a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the corn dish.
Cornbread Muffins: The soft, sweet texture of cornbread muffins is a nostalgic pairing, perfect for scooping up the creamy skillet corn.
Glass of Sweet Tea: A chilled glass of sweet tea will enhance the meal’s southern charm, creating a comforting dining experience.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, an apple crisp brings warmth and sweetness to the table, rounding off the meal with a dash of coziness.

Let your Honey Butter Skillet Corn steal the show alongside these delightful pairings that cater to a variety of tastes!

Storage Tips for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Fridge: Store any leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and ready to enjoy later.

Freezer: If you’d like to freeze the dish, transfer it to a freezer-safe container after cooling. It can be stored for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen corn masterpiece, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain its creamy texture. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming.

Room Temperature: Serve your Honey Butter Skillet Corn immediately after cooking for the best flavor and texture. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Butter Skillet Corn are perfect for busy cooks who appreciate having meals prepped in advance! You can sauté the frozen corn with the honey and butter up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply refrigerate the cooked mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to finish the dish, reheat the sautéed corn in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chunks of cream cheese, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the cream cheese melts and combines beautifully with the corn—just as delicious as when made fresh! This preparation method not only saves you valuable time but allows you to enjoy this comforting side dish with minimal effort on your busy weeknights.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Variations

Feel free to customize your Honey Butter Skillet Corn with these delightful, easy variations!

Fresh Corn: Use fresh corn kernels instead of frozen for a brighter, more vibrant taste. The sweetness of fresh corn adds a whole new layer to this comfort dish.
Greek Yogurt: For a lighter twist, substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese. You’ll still achieve a creamy texture, but with a tangy kick that brightens every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This adds a fun heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Herbed Corn: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. This plant-forward twist brings freshness to the dish, enhancing its flavor profile.
Cheesy Variation: For a cheesy delight, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese over the top during the last minute of cooking. Let it melt for a gooey, savory addition.
Maple Syrup: Swap out honey for pure maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness. This gentle change brings a cozy autumnal vibe to the dish.
Zesty Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish right before serving. The acidity brightens the flavors, making each bite pop with freshness.
Nuts for Crunch: Add toasted pecans or walnuts as a topping for added texture. This unexpected crunch pairs beautifully with the creamy corn.

With these variations, you can elevate your Honey Butter Skillet Corn to your taste preferences! Whether you enjoy the herbaceous notes or the creamy zing of Greek yogurt, there’s a perfect twist waiting for you, just like my Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine that showcases versatile flavors. So, what will you choose? Let your creativity shine!

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use either frozen corn for convenience or fresh corn for a more vibrant flavor. If you choose fresh, simply cut the kernels off the cob, and you’ll have a delectable texture that elevates your Honey Butter Skillet Corn. For ease, a 16 oz bag of frozen corn is usually recommended.

How should I store leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Store any leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s sealed well to maintain flavor and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep that creamy goodness intact!

Can I freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Certainly! If you want to freeze your dish, allow it to cool completely first. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, sealing it tightly. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s hot and creamy again.

What should I do if my corn is still crunchy after cooking?
No worries! If your corn hasn’t softened to your liking, simply continue to sauté it for an additional 1-2 minutes. Stir occasionally until it reaches that tender, juicy texture that’s so delightful. Just keep an eye on it to avoid any sticking!

Is Honey Butter Skillet Corn suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! This dish is vegetarian-friendly, but if you have allergies, please note that it contains butter and cream cheese. For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. If serving to pets, be cautious since honey is not recommended for certain animals. Always check for any specific allergies your guests might have!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
You can definitely adjust the flavor to fit your palate! For a bolder twist, add spices like paprika or a pinch of cayenne for some heat. Alternatively, fresh herbs like chives or parsley sprinkled on top after serving will add a lovely freshness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of corn!