Honey Butter Skillet Corn

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Every time I make this Honey Butter Skillet Corn, it becomes an instant favorite. There’s something magical about how such a simple list of ingredients transforms into a side dish that everyone talks about long after the meal is over. The moment that sweet butter melts into the warm corn, and the honey starts to bubble at the edges of the skillet, the smell alone pulls everyone straight into the kitchen.

I love that it only takes about 10 minutes to prepare, yet it always feels like such a treat. Whether I’m hosting a casual dinner or throwing something together on a weeknight, this skillet corn fits perfectly. The buttery creaminess, the kiss of honey, and that light seasoning of salt and pepper balance everything so well. It even gets a little caramelized at the edges if you let it cook just a touch longer – pure bliss.

I first made this as a side for some spicy barbecue chicken and a slab of cornbread, and it just stole the spotlight. Since then, it’s been my go-to comfort side dish, especially in summer when corn is fresh and sweet. And let me tell you, when it’s hot off the skillet and scooped straight onto the plate, there’s no resisting it.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Butter Skillet Corn

This recipe is the definition of quick and cozy. It comes together with ingredients you probably already have, like butter, honey, frozen corn, and a splash of cream. The flavor is unbeatable for something so simple. The butter makes it rich, the honey adds just the right amount of sweetness, and the cream smooths it all into silky perfection.

It’s also incredibly flexible. You can serve it with grilled meats, roast chicken, or even as part of a holiday spread. It’s kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and works year-round. You can even give it a little kick with a sprinkle of cayenne or a hint of smoked paprika. If you like creamy corn dishes, don’t miss my super cozy corn pudding recipe and hearty funeral potatoes which make perfect pairings.

And cleanup? One pan. One spoon. One delicious bowl of sweet, creamy corn.

How to Make the Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Step 1: Melt the butter
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of butter. Let it melt completely and begin to bubble slightly, releasing that rich, golden aroma. This is your flavor base.

Step 2: Add the corn
Pour in your corn—frozen or fresh both work beautifully. Stir to coat all the kernels in that buttery goodness. Let it cook for a few minutes so the corn heats through and begins to get lightly golden in spots.

Step 3: Sweeten with honey
Drizzle in the honey, stirring well to make sure it evenly coats the corn. Let it cook for another few minutes, just until the honey starts to slightly caramelize around the edges.

Step 4: Cream it up
Add a splash of heavy cream. It turns the dish from tasty to heavenly. The cream thickens slightly as it warms, creating a rich, velvety texture that clings to every kernel.

Step 5: Season and serve
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can finish it with a tiny sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped parsley for extra flair.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy-sweet balance.
• Cheesy version: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or crumbled cotija for a cheesy twist.
• Vegan option: Use vegan butter, a touch of maple syrup instead of honey, and coconut cream.
• Herbed: Fresh thyme or chopped chives make a lovely herbal accent.
• Roasted corn: For more depth, use fire-roasted corn or char some fresh corn before adding it.

This dish welcomes creativity, so don’t be afraid to customize it to your meal or mood.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Honey Butter Skillet Corn fits effortlessly into just about any meal. I love serving it with spicy grilled meats like barbecue chicken or ribs—the sweetness balances out the heat beautifully. It’s also a standout next to baked ham, turkey, or roasted pork, especially during the holidays.

Pair it with hearty casseroles, too. It works great as a creamy contrast to something like a taco casserole or meatloaf. I even like spooning leftovers into warm tortillas with some black beans and salsa for a quick, sweet-savory taco.

If you’re making a big brunch, add it to the spread alongside savory egg dishes or crispy breakfast potatoes. It also complements Southern staples like cornbread, fried chicken, or smothered pork chops.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare in my house!), store the corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back its silky texture.

You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the creamy sauce can separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned corn?

Yes, canned corn works fine. Just be sure to drain it well before using to avoid watering down the butter and honey.

What type of cream should I use?

Heavy cream is best for richness and thickness, but half-and-half or whole milk can also work in a pinch.

Is this dish very sweet?

It has a touch of sweetness, but it’s well-balanced by the butter and cream. You can always adjust the honey to your taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day ahead and gently reheat it on the stove with a splash of cream before serving.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter, skip the cream or use a dairy-free alternative like canned coconut milk, and substitute the honey with maple syrup.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love how cozy and comforting this Honey Butter Skillet Corn is, then you’ll definitely want to try some of my other creamy and sweet-savory dishes. My corn pudding recipe is a soft, custard-like side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of corn in a whole new way. It’s a family favorite during holidays and potlucks.

Another recipe I highly recommend is funeral potatoes—a creamy, cheesy hash brown casserole topped with crispy cornflakes. It’s the kind of dish people line up for seconds and thirds.

Looking for a cozy, one-pan dinner that pairs beautifully with this corn? Try my shipwreck dinner or the ultra-comforting creamy garlic chicken breasts. Both will turn any meal into something special with very little effort.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

This Honey Butter Skillet Corn deserves a spot on your Pinterest board—pin it now so you always have this easy, delicious side dish on hand! Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner, summer barbecue, or just need a last-minute idea, it’s always a hit.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Send it in a text, drop it in the group chat, or share it on Facebook or Instagram. When a dish is this simple and satisfying, it’s meant to be shared.

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