Easy Honey Butter Skillet Corn (Sweet & Savory)

Looking for a quick and flavorful side dish that pairs well with almost any meal?

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is the perfect combination of sweet and savory, made with simple ingredients like corn, butter, and honey.

In just 15 minutes, you can create a rich, creamy, and slightly caramelized dish that will be a hit at holiday dinners, BBQs, or weeknight meals.

Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned corn, this easy skillet recipe delivers delicious results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Butter Corn

• Ready in under 15 minutes
• Uses basic pantry ingredients
• Pairs well with both casual and holiday meals
• Rich, buttery, and naturally sweet flavor
• Works with fresh, frozen, or canned corn

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this simple and delicious honey butter corn, you will need:

• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 3 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
• 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup heavy cream (for a rich texture)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional, for added depth)

How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt completely, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pan.

Step 2: Add the Corn

If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob. For frozen corn, thaw it slightly, and for canned corn, drain and rinse. Add the corn to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Drizzle in the Honey

Pour the honey over the corn and stir well to combine. The honey will start to caramelize slightly, adding a rich, sweet glaze.

Step 4: Add the Heavy Cream

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the corn evenly.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the creamy, buttery goodness.

Tips for the Best Honey Butter Corn

• Use fresh corn when in season for the best texture and natural sweetness.
• Adjust the honey-to-butter ratio based on your preference. Add more honey for extra sweetness or more butter for a richer taste.
• Cook in a cast-iron skillet for better caramelization and enhanced flavor.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

Variations & Add-Ins

Looking to switch up the flavors? Try these delicious variations:

• Cheesy Honey Butter Corn: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese before serving.
• Garlic Butter Corn: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic while sautéing the corn for a more savory profile.
• Spicy Corn: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Herb-Infused Corn: Sprinkle with fresh thyme, parsley, or chives for a fresh and aromatic touch.

What to Serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn

This sweet and buttery corn pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile side option. Here are some meal ideas:

• Grilled meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or BBQ ribs.
• Holiday meals: A perfect addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner with turkey or ham.
• Southern comfort food: Goes well with fried chicken, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.
• Quick weeknight dinners: Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or pasta.

Storing & Reheating

If you have leftovers, follow these simple storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the cream may separate upon thawing.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes! Frozen corn should be thawed slightly before cooking, and canned corn should be drained and rinsed to remove excess sodium.

Can I make honey butter skillet corn ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for the best texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.