If you’re looking for an easy and irresistible side dish that’ll have everyone going back for seconds, Honey Butter Skillet Corn is it. This sweet and savory combo comes together in minutes with frozen corn, rich butter, sweet honey, and a creamy twist from cream cheese. It’s comfort food in its simplest, most delicious form — buttery, creamy, and kissed with a hint of honey.
Corn has been a staple on dinner tables for generations, but this version takes it up a notch with a glossy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that even picky eaters will love. Think of it as an upgrade from traditional corn on the cob or plain boiled kernels. And if you enjoyed our Creamed Corn Bake, this quick stovetop version will become your new go-to for weeknight meals or holiday spreads. Let’s get cookin’!
What is Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
You might be wondering: what happens when you mix corn, butter, and honey in a skillet? Pure magic! Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a simple side dish where sweet corn is sautéed in a luscious blend of melted butter and honey, then finished with cream cheese for an ultra-creamy finish. It’s like sweet corn meets creamed corn but without the fuss of baking. And as they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach — this dish is proof. Give it a try, and your dinner guests will be licking their plates clean!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Corn Side Dish
Simple & Fast: With only six ingredients and one pan, this dish is ready in under 15 minutes. It’s the definition of no-fuss cooking.
Budget-Friendly Goodness: Using frozen corn and pantry staples, this recipe won’t break the bank. Yet, it tastes like something you’d get at a Southern-style restaurant.
Sweet & Savory Flavor: The honey brings natural sweetness, the butter adds richness, and the cream cheese makes it perfectly creamy. It’s like creamed corn, but better.
If you loved our Buttery Garlic Green Beans, this is another easy veggie side dish you’ll want to add to your regular rotation. Try it once, and it’ll be a permanent fixture on your menu!
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Quick Overview
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is perfect for busy weeknights and festive gatherings. It takes just one pan and a handful of ingredients to create this creamy, sweet-savory side dish in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter (salted)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn (gold n’ white variety preferred, but any will do)
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into chunks
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté the Base: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and honey together until smooth and bubbling.
- Add the Corn: Stir in the frozen corn and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and tender.
- Cream It Up: Add the cream cheese chunks, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy and evenly coated.
- Serve Hot: Dish it up straight from the skillet while it’s still warm and creamy.
What to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn With
This dish is super versatile and pairs well with:
- Grilled or roasted chicken
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Meatloaf or burgers
- Holiday meals alongside turkey or ham
Round out the meal with other favorites like Mashed Potatoes or a crisp garden salad.
Top Tips for Perfecting Honey Butter Corn
- Use Quality Corn: Gold n’ white frozen corn adds extra sweetness and color, but any 16 oz frozen variety works great.
- Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese: It brings the creaminess that sets this dish apart from basic sautéed corn.
- Double It for a Crowd: This recipe easily scales up for potlucks or large family dinners.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring to maintain creaminess.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?
Yes, just drain it well before using. Fresh corn also works if it’s in season.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Try using vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, but note the flavor and texture may vary.
Can I add herbs or spices?
Absolutely! A pinch of paprika, thyme, or parsley adds extra flavor.
Is this sweet or savory?
Both! It’s the perfect balance of buttery, sweet, and creamy with a savory finish.
Conclusion
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is the ultimate easy side dish: creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Ready in minutes and devoured in seconds — that’s a win in any kitchen!
Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Salted Butter
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- 16 oz Frozen Corn Gold n' white preferred
- 2 oz Cream Cheese Cut into chunks
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and honey together until smooth and bubbling.
- Add frozen corn and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and tender.
- Add cream cheese chunks, salt, and pepper. Stir until cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Serve hot, straight from the skillet.