Introduction
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a sweet, savory, and buttery side dish that transforms simple corn into a show-stopping accompaniment for any meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, holiday feast, or backyard barbecue, this dish combines the natural sweetness of corn with rich butter and a touch of honey for irresistible flavor.
This recipe is quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality side that pairs beautifully with chicken, pork, steak, or fish. It’s also perfect for food websites targeting keywords related to easy sides, comfort food, and seasonal meals.
Why Honey Butter Skillet Corn Is So Popular
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in under 15 minutes
- Sweet and savory flavor balance appeals to both kids and adults
- Versatile side dish for all seasons
- Minimal ingredients with maximum flavor impact
- Visually appealing for food photography and social media
It’s a classic comfort food favorite that remains a high-performing, evergreen recipe.
Ingredients Overview
Core Ingredients
- Fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels
- Butter
- Honey
- Salt
- Black pepper
Optional Enhancements
- Garlic, minced or powdered
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, chives)
- Paprika or cayenne for a mild kick
- Grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Step 1: Prepare the Skillet
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
Step 2: Cook the Corn
Add corn to the skillet and sauté for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Add Honey and Seasonings
Drizzle honey over the corn and stir to coat evenly. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional spices or herbs.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired.
Tips for Perfect Skillet Corn
- Use fresh corn when in season for the sweetest flavor
- Don’t overcook to maintain a slight crunch
- Allow butter to bubble gently, avoiding browning too quickly
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
Flavor Variations
Spicy Honey Butter Corn
Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle heat.
Garlic Honey Butter Corn
Sauté garlic in the butter before adding the corn.
Parmesan Honey Butter Corn
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan before serving for a savory twist.
Herb-Infused Corn
Add thyme, rosemary, or parsley to enhance aroma and freshness.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a small pat of butter to refresh flavor
Avoid storing for too long to prevent the corn from becoming watery.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Butter Skillet Corn pairs well with:
- Grilled or roasted chicken
- Baked or fried fish
- Steaks or pork chops
- Holiday meals or barbecue sides
It’s also great on a buffet table or as part of a comfort-food spread.
Nutritional Notes
This side dish is naturally rich in flavor but moderate in calories. To lighten it:
- Reduce the butter slightly
- Use a drizzle of honey instead of a full tablespoon
- Pair with protein-rich main dishes for balance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, just thaw slightly or cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Can this be made ahead?
Yes, but add honey and butter just before serving for best flavor.
Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely, the sweetness makes it popular with children.
Can I add spices?
Yes, paprika, cayenne, or garlic powder work well.
Final Thoughts
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a fast, flavorful, and versatile side dish that elevates any meal. Its sweet and buttery taste, combined with easy preparation and visual appeal, makes it perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this skillet corn is sure to become a family favorite and a staple for comfort-food enthusiasts.
Print
Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Ingredients
• 4 cups fresh, frozen (thawed), or canned corn (drained)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives, parsley, or thyme
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter.
- Add corn; cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and tender.
- Stir in honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook 1–2 more minutes until glossy and fragrant.
- Remove from heat. Stir in fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve warm as a side to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or holiday mains.
Prep Time: 5 min | Cook Time: 8 min | Total Time: 13 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: 160 | Net Carbs: 24g | Fats: 7g | Protein: 3g