Sweet, buttery, and incredibly easy to make, Honey Butter Skillet Corn is the perfect side dish for busy weeknights, holiday dinners, potlucks, and backyard barbecues. Tender corn kernels are coated in a rich honey-butter glaze that creates the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 15 minutes of cooking time, this comforting side dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 15 minutes
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory
- Great for holidays and weeknight meals
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Pairs well with chicken, beef, pork, and seafood
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 bag (16 ounces) frozen corn kernels
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Green onions
- Crumbled bacon
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Honey Butter
Place a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the butter and honey, stirring until the butter is completely melted and combined with the honey.
Step 2: Cook the Corn
Add the frozen corn directly to the skillet.
Stir well to coat all the kernels in the honey-butter mixture.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and tender.
Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese
Reduce the heat to low.
Add the cubed cream cheese and stir continuously until melted and fully incorporated into the corn.
The sauce should become smooth, creamy, and glossy.
Step 4: Season
Add the salt and black pepper.
Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the corn to a serving bowl and garnish with parsley, green onions, bacon, or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Use Quality Honey
A good-quality honey adds rich flavor and natural sweetness to the dish.
Don’t Overcook
Cook just until the corn is heated through to maintain its sweet, juicy texture.
Fresh or Canned Corn Works Too
If fresh corn is in season, substitute 4 cups of fresh kernels. Drained canned corn may also be used.
Add a Little Heat
For a sweet-and-spicy variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Delicious Variations
Cheesy Honey Butter Corn
Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for an extra creamy side dish.
Bacon Honey Butter Corn
Add crispy crumbled bacon for smoky flavor and crunch.
Garlic Honey Butter Corn
Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves in the butter before adding the honey.
Southwest Honey Corn
Mix in diced jalapeños, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
What to Serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn
This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken
- BBQ ribs
- Meatloaf
- Roast turkey
- Baked ham
- Pork chops
- Steak
- Fried chicken
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
