I absolutely love sharing dishes that bring warmth and comfort with every bite, and this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe is one of those that always brightens my day. It’s a quick, sweet, and creamy side that pairs perfectly with so many meals, yet feels a bit luxurious thanks to the harmony of honey and butter melting together with tender corn. Every time I make it, I’m amazed at how a few simple ingredients can create such a rich, satisfying dish that’s both homely and special.
Why You'll Love This Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
From the very first time I tried this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe, I was hooked on its flavor profile. The sweetness from the honey complements the natural sweetness of corn, but the real magic happens when the butter melts in and adds that luscious, velvety finish. The cream cheese brings a silky texture that elevates the dish from simple corn to something truly indulgent. It strikes a perfect balance between sweet, creamy, and slightly savory, making it incredibly addictive.
One of the best parts for me is just how easy this recipe is to make. I often find myself pressed for time, and this skillet corn is ready in about 15 minutes from start to finish. It's a one-pan wonder with minimal cleanup, and you don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. That simplicity means I can whip it up quickly for a weeknight dinner, yet it’s special enough to serve at gatherings or holiday meals when I want a crowd-pleaser without the stress.
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe stands out because it transforms a humble vegetable into a standout side dish. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or pork chops, and sometimes I even enjoy it as a cozy snack on its own. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive occasion, it always earns compliments, and I find myself eager for seconds every time.
Ingredients You'll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential, contributing to the perfect blend of creaminess, sweetness, and savory depth that makes this dish unforgettable.
TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below
- Butter: I prefer salted butter for its rich flavor and perfect seasoning.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and a touch of floral aroma that pairs beautifully with corn.
- Frozen Corn: Convenient and maintains great texture when cooked properly.
- Cream Cheese: Creates a creamy, dreamy texture that makes the skillet corn extra indulgent.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Black Pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and spice, elevating the overall taste.
Directions
Step 1: Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter and honey. Let them melt together completely, creating a glossy, fragrant base for your corn.
Step 2: Once the butter and honey are melted and mixed, add the frozen corn to the skillet. Cook it for about 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the corn to be cooked through but still maintain a slight crunch for texture.
Step 3: Next, add the cream cheese chunks, along with the salt and black pepper. Stir everything together gently so the cream cheese melts evenly and the seasoning is well dispersed. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese has formed a rich, creamy coating on the corn.
Step 4: Serve this delicious Honey Butter Skillet Corn immediately while it’s warm and creamy. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for later.
Servings and Timing
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe yields about 6 generous servings, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. The prep time is incredibly quick, only about 2 minutes to gather and ready your ingredients. Cooking takes around 13 minutes total — 8 minutes for the corn and honey butter to cook and an additional 5 minutes to melt the cream cheese and finish the dish. Overall, you’re looking at a total time of approximately 15 minutes, with no additional resting or cooling time required.
How to Serve This Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
When I serve this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe, I like to keep things simple but thoughtful. It pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats like chicken, pork chops, or even a juicy steak. The creamy, sweet flavor is a lovely contrast to savory main dishes. For a complete meal, I often add a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side to brighten the plate.
Presentation-wise, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top adds a burst of color and fresh flavor that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. I serve it straight from the skillet or transfer it to a warm serving dish to keep it cozy. Portion-wise, I find that about half a cup per person complements the main course nicely without overwhelming the plate.
As for drinks, I love pairing this dish with a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly hoppy craft beer to balance the honeyed richness. For a non-alcoholic option, an iced herbal tea or sparkling water with a twist of lemon keeps things refreshing. This dish works wonders for casual weeknight meals but also shines at holiday dinners or potluck parties due to its crowd-pleasing flavors served warm and comforting from the skillet.
Variations
I enjoy experimenting with this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe depending on what I have on hand or the mood I’m in. For a dairy-free or vegan version, I swap the butter for plant-based margarine and use a vegan cream cheese alternative. The honey can be replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar, which provides a slightly different sweetness but keeps that comforting vibe.
For a smoky twist, I love adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle powder to the skillet. It adds a depth of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the honey’s sweetness. Sometimes, I stir in fresh or frozen diced green chilies for a mild heat punch that livens up this classic side.
If you prefer a little crunch, try tossing in some toasted pecans or crispy bacon bits just before serving. You could even give the skillet corn a quick broil for a couple of minutes to get a lightly browned, caramelized top which adds texture and complexity. I’m all about making this recipe flexible but still simple, so feel free to play around with it and make it your own.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe, I recommend storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep nicely for up to 3 days. I find glass containers with tight-fitting lids work best to maintain freshness without picking up fridge odors. Just make sure to cool the corn to room temperature before sealing the container to avoid condensation buildup.
Freezing
While this dish can technically be frozen, I personally find that the texture of the cream cheese and corn changes slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, place the cooled corn in a freezer-safe container or bag, ideally portioned out for one or two servings. It will keep frozen for up to 1 month. When thawing, do so overnight in the refrigerator rather than thawing quickly at room temperature for the best results.
Reheating
When it comes to reheating, I prefer using a skillet over low heat, stirring gently to warm the dish evenly and help revive the creamy texture. Microwaving is quicker but can sometimes make the corn a bit watery, so I recommend covering loosely and reheating in short bursts, stirring between intervals. Avoid overheating as that can cause the cream cheese to separate or the dish to dry out. Adding a small splash of milk or cream while reheating helps bring back the smooth consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen in this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels work wonderfully and add even more natural sweetness and crunch. I recommend cutting the kernels off about 4 ears of fresh corn and sautéing them until tender, roughly 5 to 7 minutes, before adding the cream cheese and other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
If you prefer your skillet corn less sweet, you can reduce the honey by half or swap it for a small amount of brown sugar or maple syrup for a more subtle sweetness. Adjusting the honey also lets the savory butter and cream cheese flavors shine through more prominently.
Can I add other vegetables or mix-ins to this dish?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, green onions, or even chopped spinach stirred in at the end bring some extra color and nutrition. I also enjoy mixing in some crispy bacon or crumbled feta cheese for additional texture and flavor layers.
What type of skillet is best for making this dish?
A non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet works beautifully. The non-stick ensures easy stirring and prevents sticking, while cast iron helps develop a slight caramelization on the corn for added flavor. Either choice heats evenly and makes cooking a breeze.
Can I prepare this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe in advance?
You can prepare and cook it a few hours ahead, then keep it covered and warm on the stove or in a low oven. For best texture and flavor, I recommend serving it freshly made, but it holds up well if lightly reheated before serving.
Conclusion
I hope you feel inspired to try this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe because it truly is a staple that brings joy and warmth to any meal. It’s simple, fast, and downright delicious — a recipe that has found a permanent place in my kitchen and heart. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish makes every bite feel like a comforting celebration. I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do!
Print
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a quick and flavorful side dish featuring tender sweet corn cooked with rich butter, honey, and creamy cheese, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. Ready in just 15 minutes, this comforting skillet recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter (salted)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into chunks
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt butter and honey: In a skillet pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter and honey together until fully combined and bubbly.
- Cook the corn: Add the frozen corn to the skillet and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and tender.
- Add cream cheese and seasonings: Stir in the cream cheese chunks, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Store leftovers covered in a container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For best results, use salted butter, but unsalted can be used with a pinch more salt added.
- You can substitute fresh corn if available, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a subtle kick.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
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