If you’re looking for a side dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with minimal fuss, look no further than this delightful Honey Butter Skillet Corn. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home because it’s not only quick to prepare but also brings a comforting touch to any meal. Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

The beauty of Honey Butter Skillet Corn lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a creamy, buttery corn dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can shine on its own as a vegetarian delight. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delicious side dish, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
Family-friendly appeal: The sweet and buttery flavors are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Versatile side: It complements many main dishes or can be enjoyed as a satisfying vegetarian option all on its own.
Make-ahead convenience: Leftovers store well in the fridge and can easily be reheated for another meal during the week.
Delicious flavor: The combination of honey and cream cheese creates a rich, savory glaze that elevates the humble corn kernels into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this tasty Honey Butter Skillet Corn, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. These pantry staples come together beautifully to create an irresistible dish.

2 tablespoons butter (salted preferred)
2 tablespoons honey
1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn or corn ribs
2 ounces cream cheese (cut into chunks)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Add some spice: For a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the dish some heat.
Mix in fresh herbs: Stir in some chopped basil or cilantro right before serving for added freshness and flavor.
Incorporate other veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini while cooking for extra color and nutrition.
Change up the cheese: Swap the cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a different creamy texture.

How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Honey

In a skillet pan (I prefer cast iron), melt the butter and honey over medium-high heat. This step is crucial as melting them together allows their flavors to meld beautifully. Once melted, add in your frozen corn or corn ribs. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn is cooked through.

Step 2: Add Cream Cheese and Seasoning

Next, add the chunks of cream cheese along with salt and black pepper to your skillet. Stir everything together well! This step is important because it helps coat each kernel in that luscious creamy mixture we all love. Allow it to cook for another 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally until everything is melted together into one deliciously smooth blend.

Step 3: Serve It Up!

Finally, serve your Honey Butter Skillet Corn immediately while it’s warm. This dish tastes best right after cooking when it’s all creamy and inviting. If there are any leftovers (which I doubt!), they can be stored in a covered container in the fridge for another day.

Enjoy this comforting side dish that’s sure to bring smiles around your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Creating the perfect Honey Butter Skillet Corn is all about the little details! Here are some tips to help you make this dish even more delicious.

Use fresh corn when available: If you’re lucky enough to have access to fresh corn, it can elevate the flavor and texture of your dish significantly. Fresh corn is sweeter and adds a delightful crunch that frozen options may lack.
Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a less sweet dish, feel free to reduce the amount of honey. The balance of flavors is key, so taste as you go and adjust according to your preference!
Experiment with spices: Spice it up by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an unexpected kick. This will add depth and complexity to the dish without overpowering its sweetness.
Make it creamy: For an extra indulgent version, consider adding a splash of plant-based cream or sour cream in place of some cream cheese. This will give your skillet corn a richer texture while keeping it dairy-free!
Reheat gently: If you have leftovers, reheat them on low heat to prevent the corn from becoming mushy. A gentle reheat will keep the texture just right for enjoying again.

How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Serving Honey Butter Skillet Corn is all about showcasing its beautiful colors and rich flavors! Here are some ideas to present this scrumptious side dish.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the sweet and buttery flavors.
Crumbled feta or dairy-free cheese: Adding crumbles on top provides a salty contrast that balances out the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Grilled Chicken Thighs: Juicy grilled chicken thighs marinated in herbs and spices pair perfectly with this sweet side dish, creating a well-rounded meal.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots brings color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the sweetness of the corn.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and protein to your meal, making it satisfying and nutritious.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes enhances the flavors in Honey Butter Skillet Corn while providing a hearty element to your dinner spread.

Enjoy making this delightful side dish, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your serving ideas!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is not only a delicious side dish but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time for busy weeknights or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy its sweet and savory flavors without the hassle of last-minute cooking.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It should keep well for up to 3 days.
Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it in the container.

Freezing

If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the cooked corn.
Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
Label the container with the date; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Alternatively, you can use the microwave; just cover the bowl and heat it in short intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Honey Butter Skillet Corn:

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen for Honey Butter Skillet Corn?

Absolutely! Fresh corn works wonderfully. Just make sure to cook it until tender before adding the cream cheese and other ingredients.

How do I make Honey Butter Skillet Corn less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet dish, simply reduce the amount of honey used. Start with one tablespoon and adjust according to your taste.

What can I serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as part of a vegetarian meal alongside salads and grains.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cream cheese to create a delicious vegan version of Honey Butter Skillet Corn.

Is Honey Butter Skillet Corn suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge or freezer and reheat as needed for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting and delightful Honey Butter Skillet Corn as much as I do! It’s a perfect blend of sweetness and creaminess that elevates any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a cozy night in, this dish will surely leave everyone smiling. Happy cooking!