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For a quick side dish that feels like a warm embrace, nothing quite compares to this Honey Butter Skillet Corn. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported back to backyard barbecues, where sweet corn drizzled with honey made my heart sing. This delightful recipe, making use of basic ingredients, is not only vegetarian-friendly but also prepped in just 20 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights. It can stand proudly next to grilled meats or shine as a delicious standalone snack.
Ready to elevate your dinner table? Let’s dive into making this creamy, irresistible dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Honey Butter Skillet Corn a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet honey combined with creamy butter creates a harmonious blend of taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
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Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delicious side dish, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Versatile Sidekick: Pair it with grilled meats or serve it alone; this dish fits any occasion effortlessly.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Enjoy the comforting vibes of this dish without compromising dietary preferences—perfect for family gatherings or casual meals.
Customizable Fun: Adjust the flavors by adding herbs or spices; swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: A guaranteed hit at gatherings, everyone will love the comforting taste of this Honey Butter Skillet Corn. Try serving it alongside my Baked Hot Honey Chicken for a delightful meal combo!
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Ingredients
For the Skillet Corn
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use salted for a savory kick.
• Honey – Provides natural sweetness that perfectly complements the buttery corn.
• Frozen Corn – Serves as the base ingredient; can substitute with fresh corn or corn ribs for a fresh twist.
• Cream Cheese – Contributes creaminess; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy melting.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Black Pepper – Adds a subtle spicy note to elevate the dish.
Optional Variations
• Greek Yogurt – Swap for cream cheese for a lighter alternative.
• Crispy Bacon Bits – Introduce for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
• Maple Syrup – Use instead of honey for a different sweet profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Add for a spicy kick that contrasts with the sweetness.
• Fresh Herbs – Stir in basil or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
• Shredded Cheddar or Parmesan – Mix in for an extra cheesy delight.
• Diced Sweet Potatoes – Combine for a heartier, comforting dish.
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn side dish is sure to become a comforting favorite, fitting seamlessly into your family meals or special occasions!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Butter Skillet Corn Side Dish
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Begin by adding 2 tablespoons of salted butter to a large cast-iron skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to melt completely, sizzling gently and turning slightly golden, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This step lays the foundation for the rich flavor of your Honey Butter Skillet Corn, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 2: Stir in Honey
Once the butter has melted, stir in 2 tablespoons of honey until fully combined. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, letting the mixture bubble slightly and emit a sweet aroma. This process enhances the sweetness that makes this dish irresistible, as the honey melds beautifully with the butter.
Step 3: Add the Corn
Next, add 16 ounces of frozen corn, turning the heat up slightly if needed. Cook, stirring occasionally for 5-8 minutes, until the corn is heated through and bright yellow in color. You want to achieve a nice warm temperature while the kernels start to caramelize a bit, adding depth to the Honey Butter Skillet Corn.
Step 4: Incorporate Cream Cheese
Lower the heat to medium and introduce 2 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese, along with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing the cream cheese to melt and blend smoothly into the corn mixture. The result will be a creamy and rich consistency that’s sure to please.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Once everything is well combined and creamy, taste your Honey Butter Skillet Corn and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the dish hot as a delicious side, and take a moment to enjoy the warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. This comforting side dish is perfect for any meal or gathering with family.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the corn overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little liquid as needed to keep the texture creamy.
Serving Tip: This dish retains its delicious flavor, making it perfect for quick lunches or side dishes for future meals.
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting recipe to make it your own, enhancing flavors and textures that delight your taste buds!
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Greek Yogurt: Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy alternative that still packs in creaminess.
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Crispy Bacon Bits: Add crispy bacon for an irresistible smoky flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the corn.
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Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique sweet profile that brings an intriguing depth to the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Introduce a spicy element by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños—perfect for those who love a little heat!
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Fresh Herbs: Stir in bright, refreshing herbs like basil or cilantro to elevate the dish and add a pop of color.
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for an extra cheesy delight that melts beautifully into the corn.
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Heartiness: Combine with diced sweet potatoes for a heartier version. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes enhances the flavor even more.
Feel free to serve this delightful dish alongside my flavorful Skillet Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes or enjoy it in a meal with my delightful Baked Lemon Butter Chicken to create memorable dining experiences!
What to Serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Create a delicious meal by pairing the creamy, sweet sensations of this corn with complementary flavors and textures.
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Grilled Chicken: The smoky, charred flavors of grilled chicken contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the corn, creating a satisfying bite.
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Crispy Bacon Salad: A fresh salad with crispy bacon brings crunchy textures to the table, balancing the richness of the Honey Butter Skillet Corn. The salty bacon elevates the sweet notes perfectly.
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Steak: A juicy steak cut is the ideal meaty partner, with its robust flavors enhancing the rich creaminess of the dish.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, roasted veggies add a variety of flavors and textures, and their earthiness complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
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Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, buttery cornbread muffins are an unbeatable combination; the comforting pairing makes every meal feel like home.
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Herb-Infused Rice: Lightly seasoned rice infused with herbs offers a delicate backdrop that enhances the overall meal experience without overwhelming the palate.
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Margaritas: A refreshing margarita is the perfect drink to wash down this dish, providing a zesty contrast that brightens up every bite.
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Chocolate Brownies: Finish off the meal with rich, fudgy brownies. The chocolate’s sweetness rounds out the dinner, ensuring your guests will be talking about this cozy night for weeks!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Butter Skillet Corn sides are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the corn mixture (but hold off on adding the cream cheese) up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Simply melt the butter and honey, stir in the corn, and let it cool before sealing. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the corn mixture in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, then add the room-temperature cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavor and creamy texture with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Honey Butter Skillet Corn
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Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent clumping; this will help create a silky texture in your Honey Butter Skillet Corn.
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Watch the Heat: Avoid cooking on too high heat when adding the corn; this can lead to sticking or burning. Stir frequently for an even cook.
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Balance Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey based on your taste preferences; more honey leads to sweeter corn. Start with less and add more if needed!
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Storage Savvy: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
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Fresh Corn Alternative: If using fresh corn, be sure to cook it longer to enhance its natural sweetness and achieve a nice char. This elevates your Honey Butter Skillet Corn to new heights!
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works exceptionally well for this recipe due to its convenience and sweetness. However, fresh corn on the cob can be a delightful substitute. If using fresh, simply cut the kernels off the cob and adjust cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through and tender.
How should I store leftovers of Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s sealed properly to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to restore the creamy texture.
Can I freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Yes, you certainly can! To freeze, let the Honey Butter Skillet Corn cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will last for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
What if my cream cheese clumps when cooking?
Very! If your cream cheese isn’t at room temperature, it may clump when added. To avoid this, ensure that it sits out for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If it does clump, simply whisk it vigorously in the skillet until it melts and incorporates smoothly into the corn mixture.
Is Honey Butter Skillet Corn suitable for vegetarians or those with allergies?
This dish is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet. For allergy considerations, ensure you’re using a honey substitute like maple syrup for vegan preferences. Always double-check the ingredients in your cream cheese and butter to avoid any allergens.
How can I customize the recipe if I don’t have certain ingredients?
Absolutely! You can adjust what you add based on availability. For a lighter touch, swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt. Feel free to add crispy bacon for a smoky flavor, or throw in some fresh herbs like basil for a refreshing twist. The more variations, the merrier with this versatile side!
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Side Dish for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of honey once butter has melted, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add 16 ounces of frozen corn and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-8 minutes.
- Lower the heat to medium, add 2 ounces of cream cheese, 1/4 teaspoon of salt and black pepper, stir for 3-5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve hot.
