The aroma of sweet corn sizzling in a hot skillet is enough to transport me back to summer barbecues, where plates were piled high with vibrant flavors. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Skillet Corn with Honey Butter—a recipe that captures that spirit in just 15 minutes! This easy dish not only brings a delightful sweetness with its honey butter glaze but also features the comforting essence of perfectly cooked corn. Whether you need a quick side for dinner or a crowd-pleasing addition to your next potluck, this recipe is here to save the day. Trust me; it’s about to become a kitchen favorite that you’ll fall back on time and again. Can you guess just how perfectly that honey butter complements the corn? Let’s dive into the magic of this simple yet iconic dish!
Why is this corn recipe so special?
Simplicity is key! With just 15 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up this delicious side dish without breaking a sweat. Sweet and Savory combination: The honey butter elevates the corn to new heights, creating a delightful taste explosion in every bite. Versatile enough for any occasion—whether it's a summer BBQ or a cozy weeknight dinner, it fits right in. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even kids will love, making your kitchen a family favorite. Looking for more easy side dishes? Check out our recipe for Crispy Roasted Potatoes and bring some more joy to your meals!
Skillet Corn with Honey Butter Ingredients
• Get ready for a sweet twist!
For the Corn
• 2 cups corn kernels – You can use fresh or frozen for convenience!
For the Honey Butter
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds a rich, creamy flavor that complements the corn.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Provides that sweet touch, making it a key part of the Skillet Corn with Honey Butter.
For Cooking
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps to prevent sticking and adds extra richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a little kick to balance the sweetness.
For Garnish
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional) – A splash of color and freshness that brightens up the dish!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Skillet Corn with Honey Butter
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. The skillet should be warm enough that a drop of water sizzles upon contact. This initial step sets the stage for perfectly cooked corn that retains its sweet flavor and crisp texture.
Step 2: Add Olive Oil
Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the hot skillet, allowing it to warm for approximately 30 seconds until shimmering. This helps to prevent the corn from sticking and adds a subtle richness, creating a beautiful base for the Skillet Corn with Honey Butter.
Step 3: Cook the Corn
Add 2 cups of corn kernels to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, observing as the kernels turn bright yellow and begin to develop golden-brown spots. This caramelization enhances the sweetness, making your corn truly irresistible.
Step 4: Melt the Butter
As the corn cooks, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a separate small saucepan over low heat. Allow it to melt gently for around 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This ensures your butter remains smooth and creamy, ready to blend perfectly with the honey.
Step 5: Combine Honey and Butter
Once the butter has melted, stir in 2 tablespoons of honey and warm the mixture together for an additional 1-2 minutes. The aroma will be delightful, and you'll notice the honey blending seamlessly into the butter, creating a gorgeous glaze for your corn.
Step 6: Pour Honey Butter over Corn
Once the corn achieves a lovely caramelized look, pour the honey butter mixture over the corn in the skillet. Mix well, ensuring that each kernel is generously coated. The sweet buttery sauce will bring the Skillet Corn with Honey Butter to life, infusing it with divine flavor.
Step 7: Season the Corn
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, stirring gently to incorporate. This seasoning will enhance the overall flavor and balance out the sweetness from the honey butter. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the corn to absorb the delicious sauce.
Step 8: Final Touches and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and if desired, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley over the corn for a fresh, vibrant garnish. Serving immediately while hot ensures the Skillet Corn with Honey Butter is a delightful addition to any meal, bursting with flavor and warmth.
Make Ahead Options
These Skillet Corn with Honey Butter is perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal prep! You can prep the corn kernels and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the honey butter mixture can be made ahead of time and refrigerated—just melt it back down when you’re ready to cook. To maintain quality, store the honey butter in a sealed jar to prevent it from absorbing other flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat a skillet, add your corn, pour the warmed honey butter over, and stir to combine. Voila! You have a delicious, time-saving dish that's just as flavorful as if it were freshly made.
How to Store and Freeze Skillet Corn with Honey Butter
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking.
Freezer: If you want to save it longer, freeze the cooled corn in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet until heated through, stirring occasionally. This keeps the flavors vibrant in your Skillet Corn with Honey Butter.
Quick Tip: If you need a fast side dish again, just take out what you need from the freezer and follow the reheating instructions for a delightful meal!
Skillet Corn with Honey Butter Variations
Feel free to explore these enticing twists and adaptations to make this dish truly your own!
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Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the honey butter for a delightful heat that complements the sweetness. It’s a simple way to elevate the dish!
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Herb-Infused: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a fragrant touch. These herbs marry beautifully with the sweet corn, creating a captivating aroma.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta at the end for a rich, savory layer of flavor. The cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
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Vegan-Friendly: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of honey for a plant-based version that still delights. You won't miss the dairy!
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Zesty Citrus: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice just before serving. The acidity cuts through the sweetness, enhancing the corn's natural flavors.
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Nutty Flair: Incorporate ¼ cup of toasted sunflower seeds or chopped pecans for a delightful crunch. They add a wonderful texture contrast to the tender corn.
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Smoky Flavor: Sprinkle in some smoked paprika while cooking for a captivating depth that complements the sweetness of the dish. This little twist can take you on a flavor journey!
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Sweet & Savory: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top before serving. This balances the sweetness with a tangy bite, making it irresistible!
Looking for more delicious side dishes? Discover how to elevate your meals with our recipe for Garlic Butter Asparagus or add some crunchiness with our Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts.
Helpful Tricks for Skillet Corn with Honey Butter
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Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob delivers the best sweetness and crunch. If using frozen corn, thaw it and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
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Proper Skillet Heat: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding corn to promote caramelization. A skillet that’s too cold will steam the corn instead of browning it.
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Honey Variations: Experiment with flavored honey, like lavender or chili-infused for a unique twist in your Skillet Corn with Honey Butter.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the corn to avoid mushiness. Aim for a perfect golden-brown outside while keeping the kernels tender and juicy inside.
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Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust seasoning after adding salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for a hint of heat!
What to Serve with Skillet Corn with Honey Butter
Imagine a vibrant meal coming together, where each bite is a delightful contrast of sweetness and savory goodness.
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Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and aromatic, it pairs beautifully with the sweet corn, creating a satisfying and hearty combo. The slight char on the chicken accentuates the dish’s summer vibe.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing option, this salad adds a nutty flavor and light texture, perfectly balancing the creamy honey butter. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a burst of freshness.
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BBQ Ribs: The rich, smoky flavor of ribs enhances the sweetness of the corn, creating a comforting, indulgent dish that screams summer barbecue.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes lend a rich, velvety texture that complements the corn’s crunch. Perfect for mopping up any honey butter leftover on your plate!
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Roasted Asparagus: The crisp-tender stalks of asparagus add a fresh, earthy flavor to your meal, with a bit of salt and pepper enhancing both dishes' savory elements.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: A sweet, refreshing drink that pairs wonderfully with the Honey Butter Corn, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meal.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish off your dinner on a sweet note! The warm, gooey cookies are a comforting dessert that pairs well with the sweet flavors of the corn.
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Apple Pie: With its warm spices and flaky crust, apple pie offers a classic comfort dessert, echoing the sweetness of the honey in your corn dish.
With these pairings, you're sure to create a memorable meal that showcases the magic of Skillet Corn with Honey Butter!
Skillet Corn with Honey Butter Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh corn kernels, which will provide the sweetest flavor and best texture, or frozen corn for convenience. If using fresh, gently cut the kernels from the cob and be sure they are at their peak ripeness—look for bright yellow color and avoid any with dark spots.
How long can I store the Skillet Corn with Honey Butter?
Once prepared, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat to keep it from becoming overcooked and mushy.
Can I freeze Skillet Corn with Honey Butter?
Very! To freeze, allow the corn to cool completely, then transfer it to a zip-top freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my corn is too mushy?
If your Skillet Corn with Honey Butter turns out mushy, next time, try to cook it over higher heat to develop that beautiful caramelization while shortening the cooking time. Cooking for too long can indeed cause the corn to become soft. Keep an eye on it and taste it as it cooks to achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and bite.
Is this dish suitable for my pet?
While Skillet Corn with Honey Butter is delicious, it’s best to avoid feeding it to pets. The butter and honey can be too rich and sugary for them. Instead, you can offer plain cooked corn (no seasoning) in moderation to your furry friends, if they enjoy it!
What can I do to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can certainly adapt this Skillet Corn with Honey Butter to be dairy-free! Replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. This way, you can enjoy that same delicious flavor without any dairy!
Irresistible Skillet Corn with Honey Butter in Just 15 Minutes
Equipment
- large skillet
- small saucepan
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Corn
- 2 cups corn kernels You can use fresh or frozen for convenience!
For the Honey Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds a rich, creamy flavor that complements the corn.
- 2 tablespoons honey Provides that sweet touch.
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps to prevent sticking.
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds a little kick.
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley A splash of color and freshness.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until warm enough for water to sizzle.
- Pour olive oil into the hot skillet and allow it to warm for approximately 30 seconds until shimmering.
- Add corn kernels to the skillet, stirring occasionally, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until bright yellow with golden-brown spots.
- In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over low heat for around 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in honey into the melted butter and warm together for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Pour honey butter mixture over the corn, mixing well to coat each kernel.
- Sprinkle in salt and black pepper, stirring gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving hot.
