Honey Butter Skillet Corn: A Deliciously Sweet and Savory Side Dish Recipe

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delightful dish that brings a touch of sweetness and warmth to any meal. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think about the rich history of corn in American cuisine, particularly in the Southern states where it has been a staple for generations. This dish not only celebrates the natural sweetness of corn but also elevates it with the creamy goodness of butter and the golden touch of honey.

People love Honey Butter Skillet Corn for its irresistible taste and texture. The combination of tender corn kernels, melted butter, and a hint of honey creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to whip up, making it a perfect side dish for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Join me as we dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6-8 ears of corn) or 2 cans of corn, drained
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Corn

1. If you’re using fresh corn, start by shucking the corn. Remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn. This can be a bit messy, but it’s part of the fun! 2. Once the corn is shucked, hold each ear upright in a large bowl and use a sharp knife to cut down the sides, removing the kernels. Make sure to cut close to the cob to get all the sweet corn goodness. 3. If you’re using canned corn, simply drain the corn and set it aside.

Making the Honey Butter Mixture

4. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. I love using a heavy-bottomed pan for this because it distributes the heat evenly and prevents the butter from burning. 5. Once the butter is melted, add the honey to the pan. Stir the mixture gently with a whisk or a wooden spoon until the honey is fully incorporated into the butter. This should take about 1-2 minutes. 6. Add the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) to the butter and honey mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors. The aroma will be heavenly at this point!

Cooking the Corn

7. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or a little more butter over medium-high heat. This will help prevent the corn from sticking to the pan. 8. Once the oil is hot, add the corn kernels to the skillet. If you’re using fresh corn, you’ll want to sauté it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the corn to be tender and slightly caramelized. If you’re using canned corn, sauté for about 3-4 minutes until heated through. 9. After the corn is cooked, pour the honey butter mixture over the corn in the skillet. Stir well to ensure that every kernel is coated in that delicious honey butter goodness. 10. Add the fresh thyme leaves to the skillet and stir again. The thyme adds a lovely herbal note that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.

Finishing Touches

11. Continue to cook the corn mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You’ll notice the corn will start to glisten with the honey butter sauce. 12. Taste the corn and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a pinch more salt or a drizzle of honey, depending on your preference. 13. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat.

Serving the Dish

14. Transfer the honey butter skillet corn to a serving dish. I like to use a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant color of the corn. 15. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. This not only makes the dish look appealing but also adds a nice flavor contrast. 16. Serve the honey butter skillet corn warm as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, barbecued chicken, or even as a topping for tacos.

Storage and Reheating

17. If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), let the corn cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 18. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or a little more butter to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Variations and Tips

19. Feel free to customize this recipe! You can add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top for a tangy flavor. 20. If you want to make this dish a bit more substantial, consider adding cooked bacon or diced bell peppers to the corn while it’s cooking. 21. For a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey. This

Conclusion:

In summary, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their side dish game. The combination of sweet honey and creamy butter creates a delightful flavor that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the corn. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or even as a quick weeknight side, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delicious corn with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a topping for tacos. You can also experiment with variations by adding spices like paprika or chili powder for a little kick, or mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an extra layer of flavor. I encourage you to give this Honey Butter Skillet Corn a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how you made it your own or any unique twists you added! So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this sweet and savory dish that will surely become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking! Print