Honey Butter Skillet Corn

This hearty Honey Butter Skillet Corn has become my go-to summer side dish for everything from backyard barbeques to weeknight dinners. The perfect balance of sweet honey and rich butter creates a dish that elevates humble corn to something truly special.

I first created this recipe when looking for a quick side dish for an impromptu backyard gathering. It was such a hit that guests actually asked for the recipe before leaving that night.

Ingredients

• Butter: preferably salted for that perfect savory foundation
• Honey: adds natural sweetness that caramelizes slightly while cooking
• Frozen corn or fresh corn ribs: work equally well depending on what you have available
• Cream cheese: creates a luxurious creamy texture that coats each kernel
• Salt: enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
• Black pepper: adds a subtle warmth and depth to the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Base:

In your cast iron skillet, heat the butter and honey over medium-high heat until completely melted and starting to bubble slightly. This initial step builds the caramelized foundation of flavors that will coat every kernel.

Cook the Corn:

Add your corn directly to the bubbling honey butter mixture. Allow it to cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. You want the corn to take on some color from the honey butter mixture, which adds depth of flavor.

Create the Creamy Finish:

Add chunks of cream cheese along with salt and pepper to the hot corn. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the cream cheese completely melts and coats every kernel of corn. The mixture will become gloriously creamy while still allowing each corn kernel to maintain its texture.

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The cream cheese is what truly transforms this dish. I discovered this secret ingredient by accident when I was low on heavy cream one day and needed a substitute. The result was even better than my original recipe with a silky texture that clings perfectly to each kernel.

Perfect Pairings

This corn shines alongside grilled meats, especially barbecued chicken or ribs. The sweetness of the corn provides the perfect counterpoint to smoky grilled flavors. I love serving this with pulled pork sandwiches, as the creamy sweetness cuts through the rich barbecue sauce beautifully.

Make It Your Own

While this recipe is perfect as written, feel free to customize it to your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat, minced jalapeño for spice, or fresh herbs like chives or basil just before serving. For a more substantial dish, mix in crispy bacon bits or diced bell peppers. My family particularly loves when I add a handful of shredded cheddar cheese at the very end.

Storage Tips

This corn keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. The flavors actually develop and deepen overnight, making this an excellent make-ahead side dish for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh corn. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and cook as directed in the recipe.

→ What type of skillet is best for this dish?

A cast-iron skillet is preferred for even cooking and a rustic presentation, but any large skillet will work.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much when reheating.

→ Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?

You can use sour cream or heavy cream as a substitute, but it may alter the dish's creamy texture slightly.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.