Honey Butter Skillet Corn

As a baker and home cook, I’ve always gravitated toward recipes that bring comfort to the table while being simple enough to whip up on a busy day. This Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe is one of my absolute favorites—it has a warmth and sweetness that instantly elevates any meal. Whether I’m hosting a family gathering or preparing a casual weekday dinner, this creamy, buttery corn dish never fails to please. I remember the first time I tried a version of it at a friend’s potluck—it was gone before anything else, and I knew I had to recreate it in my kitchen with my own twist.

What makes this recipe so lovable is the way it combines just a few humble ingredients—corn, butter, honey, and cream cheese—into something that tastes decadent and homey all at once. The balance of sweet and savory, rich and creamy, creates a side dish that people can’t stop scooping onto their plates. It’s the kind of recipe that surprises people with how good it is, and they always ask for seconds (and the recipe!).

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this skillet corn for so many reasons. First, it comes together in under 15 minutes, making it a lifesaver when you need a last-minute side dish. It’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or freezer, and yet the result tastes like something far more special. The combination of honey and butter gives the corn a beautiful glazed texture, while the cream cheese adds richness and smoothness. It’s also a one-pan dish—so minimal cleanup!

Versatile

This corn recipe is incredibly versatile. I often serve it with roast chicken, grilled turkey sausages, or baked fish. It also makes a great addition to holiday spreads, barbecues, and potlucks. You can use frozen, fresh, or canned corn depending on what you have on hand, and you can easily scale it up to feed a crowd.

Affordable

One of the best things about this recipe is how budget-friendly it is. All of the ingredients are inexpensive and widely available, and yet the flavor tastes gourmet. It’s proof that you don’t need to spend a lot to make something truly delicious and memorable.

Ingredients for the Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make Honey Butter Skillet Corn:

• 4 cups corn kernels (frozen, fresh, or canned)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)

• Salt and pepper to taste

HOW TO PREPARE THIS RECIPE

Preparing Honey Butter Skillet Corn is one of the easiest ways to add a rich, flavorful side to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. I love how this dish comes together quickly in just one pan, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Even if you’re not a confident cook, this recipe is so foolproof that it’s nearly impossible to get wrong.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients
Start by measuring out all your ingredients so everything is ready to go. If you’re using frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw it. For canned corn, be sure to drain it well. If you’re lucky enough to have fresh corn, slice the kernels off the cob and measure 4 cups.

Step 2: Melt butter and honey
Place a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of honey to the pan. Let the butter melt completely, stirring often so the honey and butter blend together smoothly. This combination creates the signature sweet, buttery base of the dish.

Step 3: Add the corn
Once the butter and honey are melted and well mixed, add 4 cups of corn kernels directly into the skillet. Stir to coat the corn evenly with the honey-butter mixture. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and begins to take on a glossy look.

Step 4: Incorporate cream cheese
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. The cream cheese will slowly melt and create a creamy, luxurious coating over the corn. Stir continuously until everything is fully combined and smooth. This step takes about 3–4 minutes. Make sure there are no visible lumps of cream cheese.

Step 5: Season and serve
Taste the corn and season it with salt and pepper as needed. I usually add a pinch of each, but you can adjust based on your preference. Stir once more to distribute the seasoning. Serve immediately while hot.

Quick and Easy

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how quick it is from start to finish. From melting the butter to serving the dish, it takes no more than 15 minutes total. There’s no chopping or pre-cooking needed—just a few simple steps using pantry staples. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when time is short but you still want something warm, hearty, and satisfying.

Customizable

This dish is also highly customizable, depending on your mood or the meal you’re planning. Sometimes I like to add a handful of chopped green onions or freshly cracked black pepper for a bit of contrast. If I want a smoky kick, I’ll stir in a touch of smoked paprika. For those who like things a little spicy, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a nice heat. You can even stir in a handful of grated cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy version.

I’ve also served this with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor. And when I’m preparing a holiday meal, I’ll often double or triple the recipe to make sure there’s enough for everyone to enjoy. It holds up well and can be kept warm in a slow cooker or warm oven if needed.

Popular With Many People

This Honey Butter Skillet Corn has become a go-to favorite among friends and family. It’s one of those side dishes that everyone reaches for first. Even picky eaters love it! The sweet, creamy texture appeals to kids, while adults enjoy the balance of flavors and the rich, satisfying mouthfeel. It fits seamlessly alongside turkey bacon-wrapped chicken, grilled vegetables, beef meatloaf, or even a hearty lentil stew. No matter what’s on your menu, this corn dish always earns compliments.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, canned corn works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid in the skillet, which can make the dish watery.

Q: Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but be mindful when adding salt later. Since salted butter already contains salt, taste the dish before seasoning to avoid over-salting.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cream cheese. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q: How long can I keep leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it warm. Just reheat gently and add a splash of milk or cream if it becomes too thick.