Honey Butter Skillet Corn

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Honey Butter Skillet Corn. This delightful dish is a wonderful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it an instant hit at any table. Whether you’re busy on a weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this recipe shines in its simplicity and taste.

What I love most about Honey Butter Skillet Corn is how it brings everyone together. The creamy texture of the corn paired with the rich honey glaze creates a delicious harmony that complements everything from grilled meats to hearty vegetarian meals. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll find yourself making this dish over and over again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the sweet and buttery flavor – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Versatile side: Pairs beautifully with grilled dishes or can be enjoyed on its own for a satisfying vegetarian option.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Simple ingredients: Made with wholesome pantry staples, this dish is easy on both your wallet and your schedule.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful Honey Butter Skillet Corn. These are easy to find and will bring out the best flavors in your dish!

• 2 tablespoons butter (salted preferred)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 bag (16 oz frozen corn or corn ribs)
• 2 ounces cream cheese (cut into chunks)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about Honey Butter Skillet Corn is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand.

• Add some spice: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Mix in herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
• Cheesy goodness: Swap out cream cheese for shredded cheddar for an extra cheesy twist.
• Sweeten the deal: Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for a unique flavor profile that adds another layer of sweetness.

How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Honey

In a skillet pan (I prefer cast-iron), melt the butter and honey over medium-high heat. The combination of these two ingredients creates a luscious base that coats the corn beautifully. Once melted, add in your frozen corn or corn ribs. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn is cooked through. This step ensures every kernel gets that sweet buttery goodness.

Step 2: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Next, add the chunks of cream cheese, salt, and black pepper right into the skillet. Stir everything together gently as it cooks for another 3-5 minutes. This allows the cream cheese to melt completely, creating that creamy texture we all love. Keep stirring occasionally so everything combines nicely – it’s all about bringing those flavors together!

Step 3: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Honey Butter Skillet Corn immediately while it’s warm and fresh. It makes such an inviting side dish that everyone will want to dig in! If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare), store them in a covered container in the fridge for later enjoyment.

Pro Tips for Making Honey Butter Skillet Corn

With just a few simple tricks, you can elevate your Honey Butter Skillet Corn to perfection!

• Use fresh corn if possible: Fresh, in-season corn offers a sweetness and crunch that frozen options can’t quite match. If you have access to it, cut the kernels off the cob and use them in this recipe for an extra burst of flavor.

• Adjust the sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, you can modify the amount of honey. If you like it sweeter, add a little more; if you’re looking for a less sweet option, reduce the honey slightly. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your family’s liking.

• Experiment with spices: While black pepper adds a nice kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. These spices can enhance the dish without overpowering its sweet essence.

• Keep stirring: Stirring the corn mixture regularly ensures even cooking and prevents any parts from sticking to the skillet. This not only helps achieve that creamy consistency but also enhances the overall texture.

• Serve immediately for best results: This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the skillet while it’s warm and gooey. If you can, try to time it so that it finishes just as you’re ready to eat!

How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Serving Honey Butter Skillet Corn is all about presentation! With its vibrant color and creamy texture, it makes a beautiful addition to any meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the sweetness of the corn.
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese: While these may seem like animal-derived options, there are plant-based alternatives available that mimic their flavors beautifully and add richness.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving brightens all the flavors and brings a zesty contrast to the sweet honey butter.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables tossed with olive oil and grilled until tender offers a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the corn.
• Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, a quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to this rich side dish.
• Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements Honey Butter Skillet Corn perfectly while adding fiber and nutrients.
• Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with your favorite spices create a satisfying contrast in texture while contributing protein to your meal.

Enjoy creating this delightful dish! Whether it’s for an everyday dinner or special gathering, Honey Butter Skillet Corn is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is an excellent choice for meal prep! It’s quick to make and stores beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeks ahead. Here’s how to ensure your delicious creation stays fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked corn to cool completely.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool entirely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Honey Butter Skillet Corn that might help you out!

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen in Honey Butter Skillet Corn?

Yes! If you have fresh corn on hand, simply cut the kernels off the cob and add them to the skillet. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly as fresh corn usually cooks faster than frozen.

Is Honey Butter Skillet Corn suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Honey Butter Skillet Corn is great for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and also freezes nicely, allowing you to enjoy this side dish throughout the week.

How do I make Honey Butter Skillet Corn dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese option or cashew cream for a delicious dairy-free version.

What dishes pair well with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?

This delightful side complements grilled meats wonderfully but also shines alongside salads and vegetarian mains. It’s versatile enough to be included in any meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired to bring this Sweet and Savory Honey Butter Skillet Corn into your kitchen! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a comforting experience filled with flavor and warmth that can elevate any meal. Enjoy making this recipe, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a favorite at your table!