Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the rich, buttery flavor enhanced by honey and cream cheese. This dish is perfect for any meal, whether it’s a family dinner, a festive holiday gathering, or a summer barbecue. The creamy texture and sweet-savory taste make it a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is both quick and delicious, ensuring you can whip it up even on busy days.

Ingredients

For the Honey Butter Skillet Corn:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn
• 2 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Honey

Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of salted butter and 2 tablespoons of honey in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and fragrant. This step ensures that the butter and honey are well-combined, creating a sweet and rich base for the corn.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

Add the entire bag of frozen corn to the skillet. Stir the corn occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking. Cook the corn for 5-8 minutes until the kernels are tender and have absorbed the flavors of the honey butter. The corn should start to turn a lovely golden color, indicating that it’s well-coated and cooked through.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese and Seasonings

Once the corn is cooked, add the cubed cream cheese to the skillet. Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper over the corn. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and has blended into the corn mixture. The cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture, making the dish even more indulgent.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the Honey Butter Skillet Corn to a serving dish. The dish is now ready to be enjoyed. Each spoonful offers a delightful mix of sweet, creamy, and savory flavors that complement many main dishes.

Serving

Suggested Serving Options:

• With Grilled Meats: Pair this creamy corn with grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops.
• Alongside Roasted Vegetables: Serve it as a side with a medley of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.
• At Holiday Gatherings: Add it to your holiday table alongside classic dishes like turkey, ham, or roast beef.

Serving Size:

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. It can be easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.

Nutritional Information:

While this recipe is indulgent, it offers a delightful balance of flavors. Keep portion sizes in mind to enjoy it as part of a balanced meal.

Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.

Notes

Tips for Best Results:

• Fresh Corn: If you have fresh corn available, you can substitute the frozen corn with fresh kernels cut from the cob. This will enhance the flavor and texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey to 1 tablespoon.
• Additional Flavors: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when adding the salt and pepper.

Variations:

• Cheesy Corn: Add a handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese along with the cream cheese for an extra cheesy version.
• Herb-Infused Corn: Stir in some fresh chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme to add a fresh, aromatic flavor.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn instead of frozen corn?

Yes, you can use canned corn. Be sure to drain and rinse the corn well before adding it to the skillet. Canned corn might be slightly softer, so reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a dairy-free cream cheese. Ensure the honey is also suitable for a vegan diet if necessary.

How do I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cream cheese. Store the cooked corn in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet and add the cream cheese just before serving.

Can I use fresh corn on the cob for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh corn will enhance the flavor of the dish. You’ll need about 4-5 ears of corn to replace a 16 oz bag of frozen corn. Cut the kernels off the cob and proceed with the recipe as directed.

What other seasonings can I add to this dish?

Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or cumin to give the dish different flavor profiles.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you add the salt and pepper. Hot sauce can also be stirred in at the end for a spicy kick.

Can I serve this dish cold?

While this dish is typically served warm, you can serve it cold as part of a summer salad. Allow the corn to cool completely and mix it into a cold pasta salad or serve it on its own as a chilled side dish.

What main dishes pair well with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?

This versatile side dish pairs well with a variety of main dishes, including:

• Grilled or roasted chicken
• Baked salmon or other fish
• Barbecued ribs or pulled pork
• Vegetarian dishes like stuffed peppers or quinoa salad

Is Honey Butter Skillet Corn suitable for children?

Yes, this dish is kid-friendly due to its sweet and creamy flavor. However, if serving to very young children, ensure the corn is soft enough for them to chew safely.

Can I add protein to this dish to make it a main course?

Certainly! You can add cooked and shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, or diced ham to the skillet when adding the cream cheese. This will turn the side dish into a more substantial main course.

Conclusion

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a versatile and delicious side dish that brings together the sweetness of honey, the richness of butter and cream cheese, and the natural flavor of corn. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, festive gatherings, or any meal where you want to impress with minimal effort. The creamy texture and sweet-savory taste make it a favorite among both adults and children. With a few simple ingredients and just 20 minutes, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this delightful treat and the smiles it brings to your table!