Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Looking for a quick and flavorful side dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table? This Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and savory, featuring honey-infused corn kernels, creamy cream cheese, and buttery goodness. With only a handful of ingredients and a cook time of just 15 minutes, this dish is a must-have for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. In a skillet, melt the butter and honey over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to combine.
2. Once the butter and honey mixture is bubbling, add the frozen corn. Stir to coat the corn evenly and cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through.
3. Add the cream cheese chunks, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3–5 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this sweet and savory side dish.
5. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to restore creaminess.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn as a versatile side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. It pairs wonderfully with classic comfort foods like mashed potatoes, green beans, or mac and cheese. For holiday feasts, it’s a crowd-pleasing addition to turkey or ham. To add a gourmet touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of crumbled bacon before serving.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For freezing, transfer the cooled dish to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store for up to two months. When reheating, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture if needed. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the cream cheese to separate.

Variations

Cheesy Honey Butter Corn

Add 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the skillet during the final minute of cooking. Stir until melted for a cheesy twist.

Spicy Honey Butter Corn

Kick up the heat by adding 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. Perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and spicy flavor profile.

Garlic Herb Butter Corn

Replace the honey with minced garlic (1 clove) and add 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a savory and aromatic variation.

Honey Lime Corn

Add a fresh citrus zing by stirring in 1 tablespoon of lime juice and a sprinkle of lime zest before serving.

Creamy Bacon Corn

Stir in 1/4 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory upgrade.

Mexican-Inspired Corn

Mix in 1/2 teaspoon chili powder and top with crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice adds an authentic touch.

Fresh Corn Variation

Use fresh corn kernels instead of frozen for a vibrant and naturally sweet flavor. Simply cut kernels off the cob and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Sweet Maple Corn

Swap honey for maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the butter and cream cheese.

These variations make it easy to customize your Honey Butter Skillet Corn to suit your preferences or complement different cuisines!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen corn?

Yes, fresh corn works beautifully in this recipe. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and follow the same instructions, adjusting the cooking time to ensure the corn is tender.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives to make a dairy-free version. The flavor will still be delicious.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop before serving.

4. What other sweeteners can I use besides honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives if you don’t have honey on hand or prefer a different flavor.

5. How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat the corn in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture if needed.

6. Can I freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

7. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, replace butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives, and use agave nectar or maple syrup instead of honey.

8. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! This recipe is easy to scale. Just ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased quantity for even cooking.

9. What can I add for extra texture?

For a crunchy texture, stir in toasted nuts, crispy bacon bits, or chopped bell peppers. These additions complement the dish beautifully.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

These FAQs should answer common questions and help customize the dish to suit various tastes and dietary needs!

This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a simple yet irresistible side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its sweet and creamy flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holiday feasts, and everything in between. Try this recipe today and elevate your side dish game with minimal effort!

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