This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a sweet and buttery side dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s easy to make and adds a lovely touch of sweetness to your table.
You just cook the corn in a skillet with honey and butter until everything is warm and mixed just right. Trust me, it’s so tasty, you might just want to eat it straight from the pan! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is ideal for the best flavor and sweetness, but frozen corn works great too! If fresh corn is not available, you could even use canned corn—just be sure to drain it well before cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the saltiness. For a healthier option, you can substitute with coconut oil or a plant-based butter, which still gives a nice richness.
Honey: Local honey adds a wonderful flavor, but if you’re looking for alternatives, maple syrup or agave syrup can give a similar sweetness, making this dish vegan-friendly too!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley really brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can work in a pinch—just use them sparingly!
How Do You Get the Perfect Caramelization on the Corn?
The key to achieving a nice caramelization is to cook the corn in a hot skillet without overcrowding it. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is heated properly before adding butter and corn. This helps create a lovely sear on the corn.
- Stir occasionally but allow the corn to sit on the skillet for a bit before stirring, so it can develop those golden-brown bits.
- Cook until the corn is slightly softer and has a beautiful golden color, about 5-7 minutes, before adding honey.
Don’t rush this step! The caramelization adds flavor that makes this dish so special.
Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: fresh herbs (e.g., thyme, sage, or parsley) or sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy side for any meal. It’s mostly hands-on, so you can be enjoying that sweet buttery goodness in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating a cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. This will ensure that the corn cooks evenly and gets those lovely caramelized bits.
2. Melt the Butter:
Once the skillet is hot, add the unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, making sure it doesn’t brown too much. You want it to add rich flavor without burning!
3. Cook the Corn:
Add the corn kernels to the skillet, stirring well to coat them in the melted butter. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the corn to soften and develop a little golden color.
4. Sweeten it Up:
Drizzle the honey evenly over the corn. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the honey to mix with the butter and create a glossy glaze around the corn.
5. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in the salt and pepper, adjusting these as needed for your taste. Stir well to combine everything nicely.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs or sliced green onions on top for an added touch of freshness. Serve this warm directly from the skillet as a perfectly sweet and buttery side dish!
Enjoy your Honey Butter Skillet Corn! It’s sure to be a hit at your dining table!
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well before adding it to the skillet. Since canned corn is already cooked, reduce the cooking time to about 3-4 minutes to heat it through without overcooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version that’s just as delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring gently.
What Dishes Pair Well with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
This sweet side dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, pork chops, or barbecued meats. It also complements a fresh green salad for a light meal option!
