Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s bright, buttery, and irresistibly sweet: this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe is my secret weapon for weeknight dinners and festive feasts alike. Imagine fresh, juicy corn kernels kissed by golden butter, uplifted by a drizzle of honey, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs—all in just 15 minutes. It’s no wonder this side disappears faster than you can say “seconds, please!” Whether you’re making a comforting Sunday supper or a summertime barbecue spread, this recipe delivers big flavor with the simplest ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each component of the Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe brings its own delicious touch to the party. The lineup is short, but every ingredient has a purpose, adding sweetness, creaminess, savory notes, or a fresh finish.
- Fresh or frozen corn kernels (4 cups): Whether you have summer’s bounty or a handy bag from the freezer, this is the star of the show—sweet, juicy, and vibrant.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Using unsalted butter lets you control the seasoning, and it delivers that classic, creamy richness.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Honey brings a delicate, floral sweetness that makes the corn shine and gives this dish its signature glaze.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Just the right amount to enhance the other flavors and keep the dish perfectly balanced.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a little gentle spice, making every bite pop with flavor.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a hint of smoky warmth, this is a fun twist that pairs beautifully with sweet corn.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): This bright green garnish gives the final dish that restaurant-style color and a pop of freshness.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely—you’ll want those lovely buttery aromas to fill your kitchen and set the foundation for the whole dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Corn
Add the fresh or frozen corn kernels straight into the skillet. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for some of the kernels to take on a slight golden brown color and get a bit caramelized around the edges. That’s flavor!
Step 3: Add Honey, Seasonings, and Toss
Pour in the honey, sprinkle over the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes. This step is magical—the honey glazes the corn, turning it glossy and sweet while the spices wake up the whole skillet.
Step 4: Finish and Garnish
Take the skillet off the heat and immediately scatter the chopped fresh parsley on top. The herbs will wilt slightly, infusing the skillet corn with fresh, green notes that perfectly balance the buttery sweetness.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Transfer the Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe to your favorite serving bowl and enjoy while it’s still warm and glossy. It’s simple, cheerful, and sure to be the hit of any meal!
How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra-special finish, try a sprinkling of flaky sea salt or a little bit more chopped parsley right before serving. If you love a bit of heat, a dusting of cayenne or a few chili flakes will layer in a gentle kick.
Side Dishes
The comforting sweetness of this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, barbecue ribs, or even a meatless main like a hearty veggie casserole. Its sunny color and bright flavor make it a standout on any table.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual gatherings, serve directly from the skillet for that rustic, “help yourself” vibe. Hosting a fancier dinner? Try spooning the corn into individual ramekins for an elegant touch, or top each serving with a curl of butter and a sprig of parsley.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe is just as delicious the next day. Store cooled corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It doesn’t take long to reheat and won’t lose its wonderful sweet-buttery flavor.
Freezing
If you want to freeze for later, simply cool the corn completely and transfer it to a zip-top freezer bag. Label and date it, and enjoy within 2 months for the best flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the corn gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding an extra pat of butter or a splash of water to avoid drying out. A quick zap in the microwave also works in a pinch—just cover to keep the kernels plump and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using canned corn, just be sure to drain it well before sautéing. The flavor and texture might be a bit softer, but it’ll still taste fantastic in this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe.
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
Yes! Simply swap the butter for your favorite plant-based margarine and use agave syrup instead of honey. You’ll still get that beautiful sweetness and creamy finish.
Can I make this ahead for parties?
Definitely—this recipe is a lifesaver when you need to prep in advance. Just cook as directed, let cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently right before serving, and garnish with fresh herbs for best color and flavor.
How can I add more flavor?
Try stirring in a bit of grated parmesan, a squeeze of lime, or a handful of diced bell pepper during the last minute of cooking. The recipe is flexible, so have fun experimenting!
Does this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe work as a main course?
It’s usually a side, but you can easily bulk it up by tossing in cooked beans, diced chicken, or crumbled feta for a satisfying bowl meal. It’s comfort food, your way.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for something simple, spectacular, and guaranteed to bring a smile to the table, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe is the answer. Give it a try the next time you need an easy side that tastes like you fussed for hours—you’ll be hooked, and so will everyone else!
Print
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe. Fresh corn kernels are sautéed to golden perfection in a honey butter glaze, seasoned with a hint of smoked paprika and fresh parsley for a delightful side dish.
Ingredients
Fresh Corn:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
Honey Butter Mixture:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: Heat a skillet over medium heat, melt butter, add corn, and cook until slightly browned.
- Add Flavor: Stir in honey, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook to glaze.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra sweetness, drizzle with more honey before serving.
- For a mild kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
