There’s something magical about comfort food that comes together in minutes but tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Honey Butter Skillet Corn is one of those dishes. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, enjoying a backyard barbecue, or whipping up a weeknight meal, this sweet, buttery side dish adds a nostalgic warmth and irresistible flavor to any occasion.
My inspiration for this recipe comes from summers at my grandmother’s house in the Midwest, where corn was king. Fresh off the cob, tossed with butter, and just a drizzle of honey — it was the taste of summer on a plate. This version elevates that memory with the creamy richness of cream cheese and a modern twist on a classic flavor profile.
Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a quick weeknight side, this easy 15-minute skillet corn is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Butter Skillet Corn
If you’re new to skillet corn, prepare to be amazed. This recipe is:
- ✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
- ✅ Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike love its sweet and creamy flavor.
- ✅ Versatile – Perfect with grilled meats, holiday roasts, or even as a stand-alone snack.
- ✅ Uses Simple Ingredients – No fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients required.
- ✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for meal prep and storing leftovers.
Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a must-have recipe in your back pocket.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You probably already have most of these ingredients on hand, which makes this recipe even more appealing:
- 2 tablespoons butter (salted preferred): Butter adds richness and flavor. Salted butter brings out the sweetness in the corn and honey.
- 2 tablespoons honey: The key to that irresistible sweet note. Honey caramelizes slightly in the skillet, enhancing the corn’s natural sugars.
- 1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn: Frozen corn is a pantry staple and delivers a fresh taste without the shucking or prep. You can use fresh corn when in season.
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into chunks: This gives the dish its creamy, almost luxurious texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the natural sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle bite and depth to the dish.
These ingredients come together in perfect harmony to create a creamy, sweet, and savory side that’s simply unforgettable.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn
This recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Let’s break it down step by step:
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Honey
Start by placing a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and honey, allowing them to melt together into a golden, fragrant glaze. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Pro Tip: Use a nonstick skillet for easy cleanup and even cooking.
Step 2: Add the Corn
Once your butter and honey are beautifully combined, add the frozen corn straight from the bag. Stir to coat the kernels evenly. Continue cooking for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and slightly caramelized.
Fresh Corn Alternative: If you have fresh corn, cut the kernels off 4-5 ears and use those instead of frozen. Just note that fresh corn may cook slightly faster.
Step 3: Stir in Cream Cheese, Salt, and Pepper
Add the chunks of cream cheese, along with the salt and black pepper. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely and coats every kernel in a luscious, velvety sauce. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Optional Add-In: Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is melted and well combined, remove the skillet from the heat and serve immediately. The dish should be creamy, sweet, and full of buttery goodness.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
This recipe serves 6, making it perfect for small family dinners or a side dish at larger gatherings.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair With Skillet Corn
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a chameleon in the kitchen. It complements just about everything, but here are a few of our favorite pairings:
🍖 With Grilled Meats
Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or ribs for a BBQ feast.
🦃 With Holiday Favorites
It’s a perfect addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter tables. Pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib.
🍔 With Weeknight Meals
Round out a burger night or taco Tuesday with this comforting side dish.
🌿 Vegetarian Friendly Pairings
Pair it with a hearty grain salad, roasted vegetables, or a protein-packed lentil loaf for a satisfying vegetarian spread.
Tips & Tricks for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Corn: You want it tender, not mushy. Stick to the time frame and stir occasionally.
- Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: For the creamiest result, skip the low-fat versions.
- Make It Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne if you want to balance the sweetness with some heat.
- Double the Recipe for a Crowd: It scales beautifully and holds up well in a warm oven until ready to serve.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you!
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of milk or butter if it seems too thick.
- Freezer-Friendly? Not ideal. The cream cheese can separate and change texture when frozen and thawed.
Recipe Variations: Make It Your Own
Want to get creative? Here are some fun variations of this dish:
🧄 Garlic-Parmesan Skillet Corn
Add minced garlic to the skillet when you melt the butter, and finish with grated parmesan for a savory twist.
🧀 Cheddar Jalapeño Skillet Corn
Stir in shredded cheddar and a diced jalapeño for a spicy, cheesy variation.
🌶️ Southwest Style Corn
Add black beans, chopped red bell peppers, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
FAQs About Honey Butter Skillet Corn
❓Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?
Yes! Just drain it well. Frozen corn tends to have a fresher taste and better texture, but canned works in a pinch.
❓Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives, though the flavor will change slightly. Look for vegan cream cheese for best results.
❓Can I serve this cold?
This dish is best served warm, but leftovers can be served at room temperature in a pinch — especially during picnics or potlucks.
What Readers Are Saying
Here’s what people who’ve tried this recipe have said:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This is now my go-to corn side dish. My kids even asked for seconds — and they NEVER eat vegetables!” – Jessica M.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Served this at Thanksgiving and it was gone before the turkey. Everyone asked for the recipe!” – Tom B.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Tastes like a mix between creamed corn and corn pudding, but easier and faster. So good!” – Anita R.
Final Thoughts: Add This Dish to Your Recipe Rotation
Whether you’re looking to jazz up your dinner table or need a reliable holiday side that everyone will rave about, Honey Butter Skillet Corn delivers. It’s one of those deceptively simple recipes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen — without the hassle.
So the next time you’re staring at a bag of frozen corn wondering what to do with it, skip the microwave and bring out your skillet. A few simple ingredients, a little love, and about 15 minutes later, you’ll have a dish that’s sweet, creamy, buttery, and absolutely unforgettable.