This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a sweet and buttery side dish that’s super easy to whip up! Just fresh corn cooked with honey and butter creates a lovely flavor that everyone loves.
It’s perfect for BBQs or family dinners, and you might just find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!). I always keep a spoon handy for any leftovers—if there are any! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is best for this dish. However, if it’s off-season or you can’t find it, frozen corn can be a good substitute. Just thaw it before cooking to get a similar texture.
Honey: I love using local honey for its unique flavor, but agave or maple syrup can work too if you’re looking for a vegan option. They will give a lovely sweetness as well!
Butter: Unsalted butter provides a great base for flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut oil or vegan butter. Just keep in mind, it might alter the taste slightly.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a delicious smoky note, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika will work too. For a bit of heat, you could use cayenne pepper instead.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor Out of the Corn?
The key is in cooking the corn properly. Start by melting the butter in a hot skillet. This helps to create a rich, buttery flavor that you’ll want to coat the corn in. When cooking, make sure to sauté until the corn is tender and slightly golden. This roasting effect brings out the natural sweetness and gives it a lovely flavor.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the butter; this helps it melt evenly without burning.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but leave it alone long enough for it to get slightly golden!
Finally, adding honey at the end lets it glaze the corn beautifully without burning, keeping that sweet flavor intact!
Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Ingredients:
- 4 ears fresh corn, husked (about 4 cups corn kernels)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a slight smoky flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
Time Estimate:
This delicious Honey Butter Skillet Corn takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling to 25 minutes. Quick and easy enough for a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough for special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
Start by cutting the corn kernels off the cobs using a sharp knife. If you’d like to make your dish look fantastic, consider slicing a few cobs in half or quarters lengthwise. Then, you can cook them alongside the loose kernels for a great presentation.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat and let it heat up until hot. This is important for giving your corn a nice, golden color as it cooks.
3. Melt the Butter:
Add the butter to the hot skillet and allow it to melt. Swirl the pan to make sure the butter coats the bottom evenly, creating a delicious base for your corn.
4. Cook the Corn:
Now, add in the corn kernels (and cob pieces if you’re using them) to the skillet. Sauté the corn, stirring occasionally until it becomes tender and slightly golden, which should take about 6-8 minutes. The smell will be amazing!
5. Add Honey and Spices:
Next, stir in the honey and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Mix everything well to coat the corn evenly. This step gives the corn that sweet and smoky flavor we love!
6. Season and Finish Cooking:
Season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes so all the flavors meld together and the butter forms a delicious sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the chopped chives or parsley over the top. If you want an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese as well. This will give your dish some delightful richness!
8. Enjoy!
Serve the honey butter skillet corn warm, right from the skillet for a rustic look that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this sweet and savory side dish with your favorite meals!
This dish combines the sweetness of honey and corn with savory butter and a hint of smoked paprika, making a delightful side perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen corn is a great alternative. Just thaw it before cooking to ensure even heating and to achieve the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use agave syrup instead of honey for sweetness.
What Should I Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, BBQ, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. It’s versatile enough to complement a variety of meals!