Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Name: Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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

Published: October 17, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey and butter creates a rich and sweet glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of corn.
Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this dish in no time.
Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option for any meal.
Easy Cleanup: Using a single skillet means less mess and easier cleanup after cooking.
Kid-Friendly: The sweet taste appeals to children, making it an excellent way to incorporate vegetables into their diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make Honey Butter Skillet Corn, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having these items ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast-iron skillet
Spatula
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Cast-iron skillet: Excellent heat retention ensures even cooking and adds flavor.
Spatula: Helps you stir and combine ingredients easily without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Corn 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

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. Once melted, add the frozen corn or corn ribs and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn is cooked through.

Step 2: Add Cream Cheese and Seasonings

Add the chunks of cream cheese, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cream cheese is melted, and the mixture is well combined.

Step 3: Serve Immediately

Serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn immediately. Any leftovers can be stored in a covered container in the fridge. Enjoy this delightful side dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Its creamy sweetness and delightful texture make it a fantastic side that complements a variety of main dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Grilled Meats

BBQ Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet corn.
Steak: A juicy steak alongside this corn dish creates a satisfying combination for any meat lover.

As Part of a Vegetarian Platter

Roasted Vegetables: Combine with seasonal roasted veggies for a colorful and healthy option.
Quinoa Salad: Serve alongside a refreshing quinoa salad for a hearty vegetarian meal.

In Tacos or Burritos

Taco Filling: Use as a sweet filling in soft or hard-shell tacos for an unexpected twist.
Burrito Addition: Add to burritos for added texture and flavor, balancing savory ingredients.

As a Standalone Snack

Tasty Appetizer: Serve in small cups as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
Comfort Food Bowl: Enjoy it alone in a bowl, topped with fresh herbs or cheese for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Honey Butter Skillet Corn

To achieve the best results with your Honey Butter Skillet Corn, keep these tips in mind:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn will elevate the flavors. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s high quality.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your taste preferences; less honey makes it less sweet.
Experiment with Spices: Try adding cayenne pepper or paprika for an extra kick of flavor.
Perfect Cream Cheese Melting: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier melting and smoother incorporation into the corn.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Honey Butter Skillet Corn pairs well with numerous side dishes that complement its sweetness and texture. Here’s a list of great options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic add richness to any meal.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the corn’s sweetness.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances out the flavors and adds crunch.
Grilled Asparagus: The slight char from grilling asparagus creates a nice contrast to the sweet corn.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor enhances the overall dish while adding texture.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair perfectly, enhancing the corn theme in your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Honey Butter Skillet Corn, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Using the wrong type of corn: Always use frozen corn or fresh corn that has been properly prepared. Canned corn can be too mushy and won’t provide the desired texture.
Not adjusting cooking time: Overcooking the corn can lead to a loss of sweetness and crunch. Keep an eye on it and cook just until heated through.
Skipping the cream cheese: Cream cheese adds a rich creaminess that balances the honey’s sweetness. Don’t skip it for the best flavor profile.
Ignoring seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance the dish’s flavor. Be sure to add them according to taste for a well-rounded experience.
Not serving immediately: This dish is best served hot, right after cooking. Letting it sit too long may cause it to lose its creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Honey Butter Skillet Corn can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Place in a freezer-safe container.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the corn to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely with a lid. Heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between, until hot.
Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Honey Butter Skillet Corn.

What is Honey Butter Skillet Corn?

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a sweet and savory side dish made with tender corn kernels, honey, butter, and cream cheese, creating a deliciously creamy texture.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh corn can be used if it’s properly cooked off the cob. Just ensure it’s tender before adding it to the skillet.

How do I customize my Honey Butter Skillet Corn?

You can add ingredients like herbs, spices, or even jalapeños for a kick! Feel free to experiment with flavors that you enjoy.

Is Honey Butter Skillet Corn suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week.

How long does this dish take to make?

The total time for preparing Honey Butter Skillet Corn is about 20 minutes, making it a quick side option for any meal!

Final Thoughts

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is not only delightful but also very versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish or even enjoyed on its own. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or toppings; you’re sure to create something special that everyone will love! Give this recipe a try today—you won’t regret it!

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