Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe – Sweet, Buttery, and Perfectly Caramelized

Looking for a sweet and savory side dish that’s packed with flavor? This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delicious combination of sweet honey and rich butter, caramelized with fresh corn right in your skillet. It’s an easy-to-make dish that pairs perfectly with everything from barbecue to roasted chicken or holiday meals.

Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful honey butter skillet corn recipe!

Ingredients for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

This recipe uses basic pantry staples and fresh or frozen corn to create a rich, caramelized side dish with a hint of sweetness.

Basic Ingredients:

  • 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained and rinsed if using canned)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (or use salted and omit extra salt)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (your favorite variety)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for a bit of extra richness)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:

  • A pinch of smoked paprika: for a smoky, savory note.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic: adds extra savory depth.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: for a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn

This recipe comes together quickly and easily in a skillet, making it the perfect side dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil to the skillet, letting the butter melt completely and bubble slightly. The combination of butter and oil helps the corn caramelize without burning.

Step 2: Add the Corn

Once the butter has melted, add the corn to the skillet. Stir to coat the corn evenly in the butter and oil mixture.

Step 3: Stir in Honey and Seasonings

Drizzle the honey over the corn and stir to combine. Add the salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings (like garlic powder or smoked paprika). Continue to stir and cook the corn for about 8-10 minutes, allowing it to brown and caramelize. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, but let the corn sit for a minute or two between stirs to get a nice golden color.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Once the corn is caramelized and cooked through, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more honey for extra sweetness or more salt and pepper for balance.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top (if using). Serve the honey butter skillet corn warm as a side dish.

How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn

This sweet and savory dish is a versatile side that can be served with a variety of meals. Here are some ideas:

  • Serve with grilled meats: This corn pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, or ribs for a barbecue-inspired meal.
  • Pair with roasted vegetables: Add this sweet corn alongside roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
  • Serve as a holiday side dish: Honey butter corn makes a great side for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal.
  • Top with cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan, cotija, or cheddar on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for the Best Honey Butter Skillet Corn

  • Use fresh or frozen corn: Fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture, but frozen corn works well when fresh isn’t available. Canned corn can be used, but be sure to drain and rinse it before cooking.
  • Don’t stir too often: Allow the corn to sit in the skillet for a minute or two between stirs to let it caramelize and get that golden-brown color.
  • Adjust sweetness and seasoning: If you like your corn a little sweeter, add more honey. For a savory twist, add extra garlic or smoked paprika.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or margarine to make this recipe dairy-free.

2. How long will Honey Butter Skillet Corn last?
Leftover corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

3. Can I use canned corn for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned corn, but be sure to drain and rinse it before cooking to remove excess liquid. Fresh or frozen corn will give the best flavor and texture, though.

4. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the honey.

Conclusion

This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delicious, easy-to-make side dish that balances the natural sweetness of corn with rich butter and a touch of honey. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, holiday dinners, or as a weeknight side dish. The caramelized, golden-brown corn has a slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory meals.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet, buttery goodness of honey butter skillet corn!

Whip up a batch of Honey Butter Skillet Corn and let me know how you like to serve it! Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a holiday feast, this flavorful dish is sure to be a hit.