The aroma of sweet honey melding with warm butter immediately transports me to summer picnics and family gatherings. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Honey Butter Skillet Corn, a quick and creamy vegetarian side dish that takes just 20 minutes to whip up. This simple yet indulgent dish elevates everyday meals with the delightful combination of frozen corn and cream cheese, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins, from crispy bacon to fresh herbs. Whether you’re seeking a comforting complement to grilled meats or a vibrant addition to your weeknight dinner, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Side Dish fits the bill. What will be your twist on this quick favorite?
Why Is This Recipe So Special?
Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes needed, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Endless Variations: Feel free to customize with crispy bacon, fresh herbs, or even a splash of maple syrup for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether alongside grilled chicken or served on its own, this creamy corn dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Comforting Texture: Revel in the smooth creaminess that perfectly coats each kernel, hitting all the right notes of nostalgia and indulgence.
For more quick and delicious sides, try pairing this with our Honey Butter Cajun shrimp or enjoy it with a rich Polenta Side Dish.
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Ingredients
For the Base
- Salted Butter – adds a rich flavor; opt for salted to enhance the dish.
- Honey – provides natural sweetness; feel free to adjust the amount for your taste.
- Frozen Corn (16 oz) – the star of the dish, lending a sweet texture; fresh corn can be used as a substitute.
For the Creaminess
- Cream Cheese (2 oz, room temperature) – creates a luscious and creamy texture; remember to soften it for easy melting.
Seasoning
- Salt (1/4 tsp) – enhances flavors; essential to balance the sweetness.
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp) – adds a gentle kick to the overall flavor profile.
Dive into this delightful Honey Butter Skillet Corn Side Dish and discover just how quickly and easily you can elevate your meals!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Butter Skillet Corn Side Dish
Step 1: Melt Butter and Honey
In a large cast-iron skillet, place 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to melt completely, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of honey, stirring until the mixture is well combined and begins to bubble slightly, infusing your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Step 2: Add Corn
Next, pour in 16 ounces of frozen corn into the skillet, making sure to mix it thoroughly with the honey-butter blend. Cook the corn for 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even heating. As the corn cooks, watch for the vibrant change to a bright yellow color, indicating they’re warmed through and ready for the next step.
Step 3: Incorporate Cream Cheese
Lower the heat to medium and add 2 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese, along with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Gently stir the mixture for 3-5 minutes until the cream cheese melts and combines into a velvety sauce. You’ll want a smooth and creamy texture coating the corn without any lumps remaining.
Step 4: Serve
Once everything is combined and creamy, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn hot to enjoy its fresh flavors and rich textures. This dish is perfect as a comforting side to your favorite grilled meats or as a satisfying standalone snack. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but try to eat it fresh for the best experience!
What to Serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Indulge in a flavorful experience by pairing this creamy side with the perfect accompaniments for a well-rounded meal.
Grilled Chicken Breasts: Succulent and smoky, grilled chicken provides a satisfying protein that complements the sweet corn beautifully. The savory flavors counterbalance the dish’s sweetness perfectly.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: The crispness and salty kick of bacon-wrapped asparagus create a delightful contrast that enhances the corn’s creamy texture, delivering a vibrant burst of flavor.
Spinach Salad with Feta: A fresh spinach salad topped with crumbled feta offers a refreshing green element, balancing the richness of the Honey Butter Skillet Corn with its light and tangy notes.
Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery exterior of garlic bread adds an irresistible element to your plate. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover creamy corn!
BBQ Ribs: Enticingly smoky and tender, BBQ ribs create a delightful flavor clash that marries beautifully with the sweetness from the corn. It’s a classic combo for summer cookouts.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing and hydrating, a glass of iced tea or lemonade pairs wonderfully with the warm, buttery dish, offering a cool contrast that completes the meal.
Elevate your dining experience by mixing and matching these delightful pairings with the Honey Butter Skillet Corn!
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Variations
Feel free to explore different flavors and textures in your Honey Butter Skillet Corn with these fun and easy twists!
Greek Yogurt: Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese for a lighter, tangy profile without sacrificing creaminess. Perfect for those seeking a fresh twist!
Crispy Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch that elevates the dish. The salty, smoky flavor blends beautifully with the sweetness of honey.
Maple Syrup: Swap honey for maple syrup for a distinctively rich sweetness. This will give your corn a warm, cozy vibe—ideal for those brisk evenings.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat. This is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweetness and spice!
Fresh Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to brighten the dish. They not only provide a pop of color but also add a refreshing contrast to the creamy corn.
Cheesy Goodness: Blend in some shredded cheddar or parmesan for an extra cheesy kick. It creates a delightful melty texture and rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted nuts like pecans or almonds for a delightful crunch. This twist offers a delightful textural contrast and enhances the dish with nutty flavors.
Sweet Potatoes: Swap a portion of corn with diced sweet potatoes for a heartier dish. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs wonderfully with the honey and butter, creating a comforting side.
For more inspiring ideas, consider serving your corn alongside our creamy Polenta Side Dish or top it with some delicious Herb Butter Steak Bites for a winning combination that’s sure to impress your loved ones!
Expert Tips for Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Use Cast-Iron Skillet: Cooking in a cast-iron skillet enhances flavor and heat retention, leading to perfectly cooked corn.
Room Temperature Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for smoother melting and a creamier texture in your Honey Butter Skillet Corn.
Adjust Sweetness: Start with less honey and gradually add more to suit your taste. This prevents the dish from becoming overly sweet.
Stir Frequently: To avoid sticking or burning, stir the corn regularly while it cooks. This ensures even heating and enhances flavor.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the dish warm. It will thicken as it cools, so enjoy it fresh!
Storage Tips for Honey Butter Skillet Corn
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors vibrant, allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
- Freezer: Portion servings into freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bags with the date for easy tracking.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or water to retain creaminess, stirring until heated through.
- Make-Ahead: To save time, prep the dish in advance and store it. It can be made fresh or simply reheated, without compromising the tasty essence of the Honey Butter Skillet Corn!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Butter Skillet Corn Side Dish is a dream come true for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the corn and honey-butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the corn as instructed and allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. When the time comes, reheat the mixture over medium heat and stir in the cream cheese, salt, and black pepper until everything is creamy and hot, ensuring a delightful experience just as if it were freshly made. This way, you can have this comforting side dish ready to impress with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use?
You can use frozen corn for convenience, but if you have fresh corn available, it can greatly enhance the flavor. Blanch the fresh corn beforehand and use about 2 cups instead of frozen for a delightful crunch!
How do I store leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to ensure the best flavor and texture preservation.
Can I freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Absolutely! Portion the dish into freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and when ready, heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or water to retain that creamy consistency.
What should I do if my sauce isn’t creamy?
If your sauce isn’t creamy, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it, as this allows it to blend smoothly into the dish. If needed, add a little splash of milk while stirring to help achieve the desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delightful vegetarian option! However, if you’re making it for someone with dietary restrictions or allergies, be mindful of the type of cream cheese you use; opt for dairy-free versions if lactose is a concern.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Very much so! This dish is customizable—try mixing in crispy bacon bits for a savory touch or incorporating diced jalapeños for heat. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can brighten the flavors beautifully!
Creamy Honey Butter Skillet Corn Side Dish in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large cast-iron skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium-high heat for about 1-2 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of honey, stirring until combined and bubbling slightly.
- Pour in 16 ounces of frozen corn, mixing thoroughly with the honey-butter blend. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently until the corn is bright yellow and warmed through.
- Lower the heat to medium and add 2 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir gently for 3-5 minutes until the cream cheese melts and combines into a smooth sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve hot to enjoy the rich flavors and textures.
