Honey Butter Skillet Corn

First off—thank you so much for stopping by. Whether you’re here looking for the perfect side dish for a weeknight dinner, a holiday meal, or just something easy and irresistible to serve up with grilled chicken or barbecue ribs—this Honey Butter Skillet Corn is about to earn a permanent place in your recipe box.

It’s creamy, sweet, salty, buttery, and ready in just 15 minutes. YES, really! Minimal ingredients, major flavor, and total comfort food vibes.

If you love recipes like this, be sure to subscribe to my email list so you don’t miss the next must-make side dish. I promise—this one is a keeper.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn: The Sweet & Savory Side Dish Everyone Loves

This simple little side is made with frozen corn (no shucking or boiling needed!), a rich honey butter glaze, and a splash of cream cheese for luscious, velvety texture. It hits that perfect sweet-salty-creamy balance that somehow works with everything.

Whether you serve it for Thanksgiving or Tuesday night tacos, it’s one of those dishes that disappears fast and gets recipe requests every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 15-minute side dish with minimal effort
• Made with simple pantry/freezer staples
• Sweet and savory flavor combo everyone loves
• Naturally gluten-free
• Easy to double for a crowd or potluck

What Does Honey Butter Skillet Corn Taste Like?

Each bite is buttery, lightly sweet, and incredibly creamy. The honey adds a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the salt and richness of the butter. The corn pops with freshness, and the cream cheese gives it this silky, almost custard-like finish. It’s like creamed corn grew up and went to culinary school—but still tastes like home.

Benefits of This Recipe

• No oven needed—cooks entirely on the stove
• Great way to dress up frozen or canned corn
• Family-friendly flavor profile
• Pairs beautifully with everything from BBQ to roasted chicken
• Reheats like a dream (leftovers = YES)

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for this creamy honey butter corn magic:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 (16 oz) bag frozen corn (or 2 cans, drained)
• 2 oz cream cheese (about ¼ cup), cubed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• Pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
• ¼ tsp garlic powder for extra depth

Tools You’ll Need

• Medium to large skillet (nonstick or cast iron)
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons

That’s it—simple tools for a simple, stunning side!

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

This recipe is totally flexible, and you can play around with the flavors to suit your mood or meal:

• Use canned corn if needed—just make sure it’s well drained.
• Swap honey for maple syrup if you want a richer, deeper sweetness.
• Make it dairy-free with vegan butter and plant-based cream cheese.
• Add a little heat with crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.
• Top with crispy bacon for an epic savory-sweet crunch.

How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the Butter & Honey:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the honey. Let them bubble together for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden and fragrant.

2. Add the Corn:
Stir in the frozen corn (no need to thaw!). Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and just starting to caramelize on the edges.

3. Make It Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low, then add the cream cheese. Stir gently until melted and smooth, about 2–3 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper.

4. Serve Hot:
Spoon into a serving dish or right from the skillet, garnished with chopped herbs if you like. Serve immediately and watch it vanish.

What to Serve With Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Honestly? This goes with everything. But here are some pairings I absolutely love:

• Grilled or roasted chicken
• Pulled pork sandwiches or BBQ ribs
• Meatloaf or baked ham
• Tacos or enchiladas (yes, it works!)
• Holiday spreads with turkey and stuffing
• Crispy tofu or veggie patties

Tips for Making the Best Skillet Corn

• Don’t overcook it – You want to warm the corn through, not turn it to mush.
• Use full-fat cream cheese – It melts smoother and gives that ultra-creamy finish.
• Let the butter and honey caramelize slightly – That’s where the flavor lives!
• Taste before seasoning – Some frozen corn is already salty.

Storage & Reheating

To Store:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To Reheat:
Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick.

To Freeze:
Let it cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

General Information

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side dish
• Cuisine: American comfort food
• Difficulty: Very easy

FAQ: Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Use about 3 cups of fresh corn cut off the cob. It’s amazing in summer.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Just reheat before serving and stir well to re-incorporate the creaminess.

Can I double or triple this recipe?
Yep! Just use a large enough skillet and increase ingredients proportionally.

Is this sweet like dessert?
It’s more of a savory-sweet balance—think sweet cornbread vibes.

Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese. Swap honey for agave or maple syrup.

Conclusion: The Side Dish You Didn’t Know You Needed

There’s just something magical about Honey Butter Skillet Corn—it’s humble, homey, and totally addictive. Whether you’re dressing up dinner or adding one more side to your holiday table, this dish checks every box. It’s fast, flavorful, and made from ingredients you probably already have.

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