Honey butter skillet corn is an irresistible side dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family BBQ, a potluck, or simply making a cozy weeknight dinner, this creamy, sweet, and savory corn recipe will elevate your meal. With just a few ingredients and less than 20 minutes, you can whip up a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about honey butter skillet corn, from ingredients and variations to pairing suggestions. By the end, you’ll be ready to serve this delightful dish at your next gathering.
What Is Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Honey butter skillet corn is a popular side dish made with corn, butter, and honey. These simple ingredients combine to create a sweet and buttery flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.
Unlike creamed corn, which has a more blended texture, honey butter skillet corn uses whole kernels of corn that are sautéed in butter and sweetened with honey. The result is a dish that’s creamy without being overly heavy, making it a versatile option for various meals.
Ingredients for Honey Butter Skillet Corn
The beauty of honey butter skillet corn lies in its simplicity.You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry:
- Corn: You can use frozen or fresh corn, depending on what you have available. Fresh corn offers a crisper texture, but frozen corn is more convenient and still delivers a delicious result.
- Butter: Salted butter adds richness to the dish, complementing the natural sweetness of the corn.
- Honey: The star of the recipe, honey brings a subtle sweetness that elevates the dish without overpowering it.
- Optional Add-Ins: To make your honey butter skillet corn extra creamy, you can add a bit of cream cheese. For garnish, chives or scallions provide a slight bite to balance the sweetness.
Pro Tip: If you want to give your dish a bit of a savory kick, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of garlic powder.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn: Step-by-Step Guide
Making honey butter skillet corn is incredibly easy, making it a go-to recipe when you’re short on time. Follow these steps for the perfect side dish.
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt until it begins to sizzle.
Step 2: Add the Corn
Once the butter is melted, add your corn (either fresh or frozen) to the skillet. Sauté the corn for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. The corn should begin to caramelize slightly, enhancing its natural sweetness.
Step 3: Stir in the Honey
After the corn is tender, drizzle honey over the top. Stir well to ensure all the kernels are coated in the sweet, buttery mixture. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the honey to meld with the butter and corn.
Step 4: Optional Cream Cheese
If you want your corn to be extra creamy, this is the time to add in a dollop of cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped chives or scallions on top for a bit of color and flavor contrast. Serve immediately while the dish is warm and fresh.
Best Corn Options for Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Choosing the right type of corn can impact the texture and flavor of your dish. Here’s a brief overview of your choices:
Frozen Corn vs. Fresh Corn
- Frozen Corn: This is the most convenient option. It’s pre-cut and ready to cook, offering a sweet flavor year-round.
- Fresh Corn: If you’re making this dish during corn season, fresh corn is the best option. It offers a crisp texture that frozen corn can’t quite replicate.
Tip: If you’re using fresh corn, you can easily remove the kernels from the cob by holding the cob vertically and running a knife down the sides.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
The basic honey butter skillet corn recipe is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to mix things up and make it your own. Here are a few delicious variations to consider:
Spicy Honey Butter Skillet Corn
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. The spicy kick pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the honey.
Cheesy Skillet Corn
To make a cheesy version, stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese just before serving. The melted cheese adds richness and depth to the dish.
Herb-Infused Corn
For a more complex flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil. The earthy flavors of the herbs complement the sweetness of the honey and butter.
Pairing Honey Butter Skillet Corn with Other Dishes
One of the best things about honey butter skillet corn is its versatility. Here are some pairing ideas that will make your meal complete:
Serve with BBQ Dishes
This corn side dish pairs perfectly with BBQ classics like ribs, grilled chicken, or brisket. The sweetness of the corn contrasts nicely with the smoky flavors of BBQ, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Complement Holiday Meals
Honey butter skillet corn is also a great addition to holiday meals. It works well with roasted turkey, ham, or even alongside a traditional Thanksgiving spread.
Tips for Perfecting Honey Butter Skillet Corn
To make your honey butter skillet corn truly stand out, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
1. Control the Heat
Maintaining the right temperature is key when cooking honey butter skillet corn. Too high, and you risk burning the butter and honey; too low, and the corn won’t caramelize properly. Keep the heat on medium-high for a perfect caramelization while avoiding any burnt flavors.
2. Balance the Sweetness
If you’re worried about the dish being too sweet, you can adjust the amount of honey to your liking. A good rule of thumb is to start with 1-2 tablespoons and add more as needed. This way, you can find the perfect balance that suits your taste buds.
3. Avoid Watery Corn
If using frozen corn, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained before adding it to the skillet. Excess moisture can make the corn watery, which dilutes the flavor. For best results, pat the corn dry with a paper towel after thawing.
4. Customize the Garnish
The garnish is more than just for looks—it adds a fresh, contrasting flavor to the dish. Experiment with different garnishes like chopped scallions, parsley, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
FAQs
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about honey butter skillet corn, gathered from user searches and popular queries:
Can I Use Canned Corn for Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Yes, canned corn works if that’s what you have available. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly before adding it to the skillet. Although fresh or frozen corn typically offers a better texture, canned corn can be a convenient alternative when needed.
How Do I Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn Creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, add cream cheese or half-and-half to the skillet towards the end of the cooking process. Stir well until the cream cheese is fully melted and blended into the dish.
Can I Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it on the stove over low heat before serving. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and to restore its creamy texture.
What Pairs Well with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Honey butter skillet corn is versatile and pairs beautifully with BBQ dishes like chicken tacos or ribs. It also complements roasted meats, such as turkey or ham, making it an excellent addition to holiday meals.
How Can I Add Some Spice to Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
If you prefer a little kick, you can easily spice up the dish by adding diced jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce. These additions provide a sweet and spicy balance that will take your corn to the next level.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the best parts about Caramelized corn with honey is how well it stores. Here’s how you can store and reheat it for future meals:
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover Caramelized corn with honey in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days.
- Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to two months. When freezing, make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
Reheating Instructions
- Stove Reheat: To reheat the corn on the stove, place it in a skillet over medium-low heat and stir occasionally. If the dish has thickened too much, add a small splash of milk or water to help loosen it up.
- Microwave Reheat: For a quicker method, you can reheat the corn in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Tip: When reheating, avoid overheating as it may cause the corn to lose its creamy texture.
Flavor Variations to Try
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to experiment with your honey butter skillet corn, here are a few creative flavor variations to try:
1. Bacon Honey Butter Corn
Everything is better with bacon! Simply fry up some bacon and crumble it over the finished dish for a smoky, savory twist.
2. Mexican Street Corn-Style
Transform your buttery skillet corn into a Mexican-inspired side dish by adding cotija cheese, cilantro, lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder. The combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors will be a hit at any meal.
3. Garlic Parmesan Skillet Corn
For a richer, more savory version, add minced garlic and grated parmesan cheese towards the end of cooking. The garlic provides depth, while the parmesan gives a salty, umami flavor.
Pairing Skillet-cooked corn with honey with Your Meals
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Skillet-cooked corn with honey fits perfectly with a variety of main dishes. Here are some excellent pairings:
BBQ Feasts
This dish is an ideal companion for any BBQ menu. Serve it alongside ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken for a mouthwatering combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Holiday Spreads
Skillet-cooked corn with honey also shines on the holiday table. Pair it with traditional favorites like roast turkey, ham, or prime rib. The buttery richness of the corn pairs perfectly with the robust flavors of holiday meats.
Vegetarian-Friendly Meals
Looking for a vegetarian option? Pair this dish with stuffed peppers, veggie burgers, or a fresh garden salad for a satisfying, meat-free meal.
Conclusion
Skillet-cooked corn with honey is more than just a side dish—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort, sweetness, and a touch of indulgence to any meal. This recipe, with its simple cooking process and easily accessible ingredients, is ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. Whether you’re preparing for a family BBQ, holiday feast, or a regular weeknight dinner, Skillet-cooked corn with honey is sure to be a hit.
Don’t hesitate to customize this dish with your favorite add-ins or flavor variations. And remember, the key to perfecting it is controlling the heat, balancing the sweetness, and having fun in the kitchen.
Try it today and discover why Sweet buttery corn is a must-have for your recipe collection!