Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe

Introduction

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is one of those recipes that instantly makes you think of comfort food at its finest. The first time I tried it was during a summer cookout in Texas, where sweet corn was at the center of nearly every dish on the table. My neighbor handed me a plate of golden corn kernels glistening with butter and honey, and I knew I had stumbled upon a side dish that was both simple and extraordinary.

What makes this recipe truly magical is how it transforms just a few pantry staples into something unforgettable. The corn is lightly charred in a hot skillet, which brings out its natural sweetness, then coated with a luscious blend of melted butter and honey. The result? A dish that’s sweet, savory, slightly smoky, and totally irresistible.

The best part? It’s quick. In less than 15 minutes, you’ve got a side dish that pairs with just about anything — from grilled chicken to barbecued ribs, or even as a snack on its own. And unlike complicated casseroles, this one doesn’t require the oven or hours of prep work. Just a skillet, a handful of ingredients, and you’re set.

If you’re into easy but flavor-packed sides, you’ll also enjoy this Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe, which offers the same refreshing balance of flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

For the Corn

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon honey

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• Smoked paprika

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

• Red pepper flakes

Directions for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

1. Heat the Skillet
   Place a large skillet over medium heat. Cast iron works beautifully here because it holds the heat well. Melt the 2 tablespoons of butter, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly.

2. Cook the Corn
   Add the corn kernels — fresh or frozen both work perfectly. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to develop a light char. That caramelization adds depth and a smoky sweetness.

3. Add Honey and Seasonings
   Drizzle in the honey, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any of your chosen add-ins like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes. Stir everything together so the corn is evenly coated. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

4. Finish with Toppings
   If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it in and stir until it melts, creating a creamy coating. For a fresh finish, toss in chopped parsley or cilantro.

5. Serve and Enjoy
   Transfer the hot skillet corn to a serving bowl, or bring the skillet straight to the table for a rustic touch. Enjoy while warm.

Tips & Variations for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a little kick.

• Cheesy Version: Mix in Parmesan cheese for a creamy, savory twist.

• Tex-Mex Style: Toss in some lime juice and chopped cilantro.

• Make It a Meal: Top with grilled shrimp or chicken for a one-pan dinner.

• Other Ideas: If you love hearty sides, this Basic Vegetable Soup is another easy recipe to keep on hand for busy nights.

Storage for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

This Honey Butter Skillet Corn stores best in the refrigerator. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in a small knob of butter to refresh the flavor.

For longer storage, you can freeze the corn. Spread it out on a baking sheet first so it doesn’t clump together, then transfer to freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Tools Used

• Large skillet (cast iron recommended)

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Measuring spoons

• Serving bowl

FAQ

Q1: Can I use canned corn for this recipe?
Yes, canned corn works, but it won’t char as nicely as fresh or frozen. Make sure to drain it thoroughly before adding it to the skillet.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can cook it a day ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet before serving to bring back that buttery shine and flavor.

Final Thoughts on Honey Butter Skillet Corn

When you’re looking for a side dish that’s fast, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, Honey Butter Skillet Corn checks every box. It brings together the sweetness of honey, the richness of butter, and the natural pop of corn into a single skillet. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or simply as a snack, it always delivers.

If you’re looking for more creative side dish ideas, don’t miss this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, another recipe that balances comfort and flavor perfectly.

And for extra inspiration on corn recipes, take a look at Delish’s corn recipe collection, where you’ll find endless variations from street corn to creamy chowders.

TINSUF RECIPES

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Sweet, savory, and buttery, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a quick 15-minute side dish made with corn, honey, and butter. Perfect for weeknight dinners or BBQ cookouts.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Corn
• - 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• - 1 tablespoon honey
• - ¼ teaspoon salt
• - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ### Optional Add-Ins
• - Smoked paprika
• - Grated Parmesan cheese
• - Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
• - Red pepper flakes

Equipment

• - Large skillet (cast iron recommended)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• - Serving bowl

Method

 

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter.
2. Add corn kernels and cook 6–8 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
3. Drizzle in honey, season with salt, pepper, and spices. Cook 1–2 minutes more.
4. Add Parmesan or herbs if desired.
5. Serve warm straight from the skillet or in a bowl.

Notes

- Best served fresh, but can be stored up to 3 days in the fridge.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika.
- Add lime juice and cilantro for a Tex-Mex twist.