Name: Honey Butter Skillet Corn: A Sweet Comfort Food Classic
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter (use salted for enhanced taste); 2 tablespoons honey; 3 cups frozen corn (or corn ribs; fresh corn can be substituted when in season); 4 ounces cream cheese (cut into chunks for easy melting); to taste salt (adjust to taste if using salted butter); to taste black pepper (freshly ground is preferable)

As I stood over the stove, the scent of melting butter mingled with the sweet aroma of honey, a feeling of nostalgia washed over me. Just one bite of this Honey Butter Skillet Corn transports me back to summer barbecues and family gatherings, where each kernel sparkled with joy. This recipe not only delivers a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, but it also offers a quick, hassle-free solution for busy weeknights. With its creamy, buttery glaze, this dish is sure to become a staple that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Ready to bring a little sweetness and warmth to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to brighten any meal!

What Makes This Corn So Irresistible?

Delightful Flavor Burst: Each bite of Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a heavenly fusion of sweet and savory, with buttery richness that brings everyone to the table.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making meal prep breezy and stress-free.

Versatile Side Dish: Whether grilled meats or vegetarian spreads, it complements a variety of dishes, ensuring it shines at any gathering.

Feel-Good Comfort Food: Packed with tender, juicy corn, it’s like a warm hug on a plate—guaranteed to evoke delightful memories of family gatherings.

Healthy Indulgence: This dish incorporates fresh ingredients and can easily be customized with your favorite herbs, making it a nutritious addition. If you’re looking for more quick ideas, check out my Garlic Butter Chicken that pairs beautifully or try the refreshing Honey Mustard Turkey for a complete meal.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Ingredients

For the Corn Dish

Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use salted for enhanced taste.
Honey – Provides natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the butter.
Frozen Corn (or Corn Ribs) – Base ingredient; offers a tender and juicy texture. Fresh corn can be substituted when in season.
Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy consistency; make sure it’s cut into chunks for easy melting.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavors of the dish; adjust to taste if using salted butter.
Black Pepper – Adds a little heat and depth; freshly ground is preferable for optimal flavor.

This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delightful mix of sweet and savory — perfect for your next meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Honey
In a large skillet, preferably cast iron for optimal heat retention, heat 4 tablespoons of salted butter and 2 tablespoons of honey over medium-high heat. Stir gently as the butter melts, creating a smooth and fragrant mixture. This should take about 2-3 minutes; watch for the butter to bubble lightly, indicating that it’s ready for the next ingredient.

Step 2: Add the Frozen Corn
Once the butter and honey mixture is bubbling, add in 3 cups of frozen corn or corn ribs. Stir well to ensure the corn is evenly coated with the buttery glaze. Continue to cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn is heated through and vibrant, showing a slight golden hue.

Step 3: Incorporate Cream Cheese
Lower the heat to medium and add 4 ounces of cream cheese, cut into chunks, along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted into the corn, creating a creamy, luscious texture that envelops the kernels.

Step 4: Serve Warm
Once the cream cheese is fully incorporated and everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your delightful Honey Butter Skillet Corn immediately, savoring the sweet and savory flavors. For the best experience, enjoy it alongside your favorite grilled meats or as a comforting standalone dish.

Expert Tips for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Skillet Choice: Use a cast-iron skillet for optimal heat retention and flavor. It helps achieve that perfect caramelization and richness.
Mix Thoroughly: Stir the corn well after adding it to the skillet. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking for a delightful Honey Butter Skillet Corn experience.
Cream Cheese Prep: Let your cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it to the dish. This allows it to melt smoothly, blending seamlessly with the corn.
Herb Enhancement: For a fresh twist, consider adding chopped herbs like chives or parsley. This adds color and brightness to your Honey Butter Skillet Corn.
Spice It Up: For a little heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder. This can elevate the sweet-savory balance, making each bite a flavor adventure.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this recipe to your liking! Each twist and substitution brings a new layer of flavor and joy to your dining experience.

Greek Yogurt: Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a tangy and lighter option. It’s a refreshing change that adds a nice zing!
Fresh Herbs: Add chopped chives or parsley for a burst of freshness. This simple addition elevates the dish, making it vibrant and visually appealing.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder for an exciting heat level. This twist adds a delightful warmth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey.
Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top just before serving for cheesy goodness. It melds wonderfully with the creamy corn, creating an irresistible combination!
Smoky Flavors: Add cooked bacon or smoked paprika to enhance the dish with a smoky richness. It brings depth and complexity, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser.
Nutty Profile: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor dimension. The texture contrast with the soft corn is simply delightful.
Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free twist, add coconut milk instead of cream cheese. This creamy alternative brings a tropical flair and a unique sweetness that’s hard to resist.

If you’re seeking more delicious recipes to complement your meals, consider trying my Garlic Butter Chicken or the fresh and tangy Honey Mustard Turkey.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled Honey Butter Skillet Corn in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, to retain its creamy texture and flavor.
Avoiding Freezer Burn: Ensure the dish is well-wrapped or sealed to prevent freezer burn, which can compromise the taste and quality of your delicious corn.

What to Serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?

Honey Butter Skillet Corn creates a delightful symphony of sweetness and creaminess, making it the perfect addition to any meal, from backyard cookouts to cozy family dinners.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken beautifully contrasts with the sweet corn, creating a balanced and satisfying plate. A zesty marinade can enhance this pairing.
Barbecue Ribs: Juicy, saucy ribs paired with the creamy corn bring a comforting home-style feel and a perfect harmony of flavors that make taste buds dance.
Roasted Vegetables: Bright, roasted veggies add a fresh crunch and earthy tones to your meal, enhancing the vibrant sweetness of the corn. A sprinkle of herbs can elevate this combination.
Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint, brightening up the meal while complementing the rich taste of the skillet corn.
Cornbread: The subtle sweetness and crumbly texture of cornbread pair perfectly with Honey Butter Skillet Corn, bringing a classic touch to your family gathering. Feel free to add a hint of jalapeño for spice!
White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweet and savory notes of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience with its bright acidity.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy textures of coleslaw add a delightful crunch and vibrant flavor that perfectly balance the velvety corn—ideal for picnics and potlucks.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like homemade lemonade or sweet iced tea serve as the perfect palate cleanser, enhancing the comforting vibes of your meal.
Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, fudgy brownies offer a satisfying sweet finish to your meal, contrasting beautifully with the honey-infused corn and wrapping up the experience on a high note!

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Butter Skillet Corn is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the corn and honey-butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the first two steps of the recipe; simply melt the butter with honey and add the frozen corn. Allow the mixture to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. To maintain quality, ensure it’s tightly sealed to avoid any moisture buildup. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat and then stir in the cream cheese, salt, and black pepper, cooking until everything is well combined. Enjoy the comforting flavors with minimal effort on busy nights!

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
You can use frozen corn for this recipe as it offers convenience and consistent texture. If fresh corn is in season, feel free to substitute with fresh ears for an even sweeter taste. Just make sure to remove the kernels properly from the cob!

How should I store leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat it on the stovetop to bring back its creamy consistency.

Can I freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the cooled corn in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently on the stove.

What should I do if my corn mixture is too thick?
If you find your Honey Butter Skillet Corn is thicker than you’d like, just add a splash of milk or cream while reheating. Stir well until you achieve your preferred consistency. This will help bring back that delightful creaminess without compromising flavor!

Are there any dietary concerns for pets or allergies with this recipe?
Yes, it’s important to note that both butter and cream cheese can upset some pets’ stomachs, so keep any leftovers out of reach. Additionally, be aware of your guests’ allergies—this dish contains dairy and honey, which might not be suitable for everyone. Adjust ingredients as necessary for any dietary restrictions.