Description
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe is a simple yet incredibly satisfying side dish that transforms humble frozen corn into a creamy, sweet, and savory delight. It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and effortless cooking. In just minutes, you can create a dish that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The natural sweetness of honey, combined with the rich, salty butter and the tangy cream cheese, creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick side to accompany your weeknight dinner or a comforting addition to your holiday spread, this skillet corn is a winner. It’s easy enough for a beginner cook to master, yet sophisticated enough to impress even the most discerning palates. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the magic it creates with just a few, readily available ingredients. Prepare to be amazed by the transformation of ordinary frozen corn into an extraordinary culinary experience.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll fall in love with this Honey Butter Skillet Corn for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. No need to spend hours in the kitchen; this recipe comes together in less than 15 minutes. Secondly, it’s versatile. It pairs well with a wide variety of main courses, from grilled chicken and steak to roasted vegetables and fish. Thirdly, the flavor combination is simply irresistible. The sweetness of the honey perfectly complements the saltiness of the butter and the tanginess of the cream cheese, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Fourthly, it’s a great way to get even picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables. The creamy texture and sweet taste make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike. Finally, it’s a wonderful way to elevate a simple bag of frozen corn into something truly special. This recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp salted butter – adds richness and depth
- 2 tbsp honey – for a touch of natural sweetness
- 1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn – the base of the dish
- 2 oz cream cheese, cut into chunks – makes it extra creamy
Preparation:
step 1: Gather Your Ingredients: Before you begin, make sure you have all your ingredients measured and ready to go. This will streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling. Have your butter, honey, frozen corn, and cream cheese chunks within easy reach. It’s also helpful to have your skillet ready on the stovetop.
Step 2: Melt the Butter: Place a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely. Swirl the skillet occasionally to ensure the butter coats the bottom evenly, preventing the corn from sticking later on. The butter should be shimmering but not browning. If it starts to brown, reduce the heat slightly.
Step 3: Incorporate the Honey: Once the butter is fully melted, pour in the 2 tablespoons of honey. Stir continuously with a spatula or wooden spoon until the honey is thoroughly incorporated into the melted butter. This creates a luscious, sweet and savory base for the corn. The mixture should be smooth and evenly combined.
Step 4: Cook the Corn: Add the entire bag (16 oz) of frozen corn to the skillet. Stir constantly to ensure that every kernel is coated with the honey-butter mixture. Continue to cook the corn for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is heated through. The corn should be tender and slightly softened. Stirring frequently prevents the corn from sticking and ensures even cooking.
Step 5: Melt in the Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the 2 ounces of cream cheese, cut into chunks, to the skillet. Stir gently and continuously until the cream cheese melts and combines with the corn, creating a smooth, creamy texture. This step may take a few minutes, so be patient and keep stirring. Make sure the cream cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed throughout the corn mixture. There should be no visible chunks of cream cheese remaining.
Step 6: Simmer and Serve: Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. The corn should be heated through, and the sauce should be smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. You can add a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance the flavors further. Serve hot immediately and enjoy the sweet, creamy goodness!
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Grilled Chicken or Steak: The sweetness of the corn complements the savory flavors of grilled meats perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a complete and balanced meal.
- Pork Chops: The creamy corn provides a delicious contrast to pan-fried or baked pork chops.
- Fish: It’s a great side dish for baked or pan-seared fish, such as salmon or cod.
- Tacos or Fajitas: Add a scoop of Honey Butter Skillet Corn to your tacos or fajitas for an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.
- Holiday Meals: This dish makes a wonderful addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners, providing a sweet and creamy alternative to traditional corn recipes.
- As a Topping: Spoon it over baked potatoes or polenta for a decadent and flavorful twist.
Tips:
- Use good-quality butter and honey for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the corn, as it can become mushy.
- If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the corn.
- To make this dish vegan, use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives, and substitute the honey with agave nectar or maple syrup.
- Fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, can be added as a garnish for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- If you want a chunkier texture, you can add some chopped bell peppers or onions to the skillet along with the corn.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Adjust the amount of honey to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey slightly.
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
15 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, may vary depending on specific ingredients)
- Calories: 200-250 per serving
- Protein: 3-5g
- Sodium: 150-200mg
Conclusion
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and delicious flavors. Its quick preparation time, versatile nature, and irresistible taste make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to impress. So, grab a bag of frozen corn, a few pantry staples, and get ready to experience the magic of Honey Butter Skillet Corn. You won’t be disappointed! It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite, requested time and time again. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Q1: Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! Fresh corn is a fantastic alternative. If using fresh corn on the cob, you’ll need about 3-4 ears, depending on their size. Shuck the corn and cut the kernels off the cob. Since fresh corn takes a bit longer to cook than frozen, you might need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Keep an eye on it and cook until the kernels are tender and slightly caramelized. Fresh corn will add a wonderful sweetness and texture to the dish, making it even more delicious, especially during corn season.
Q2: What if I don’t have cream cheese? Can I substitute it with something else?
A: Yes, you can definitely substitute the cream cheese! A great alternative is sour cream or Greek yogurt. These will provide a similar creamy texture but with a slightly tangier flavor. Start with the same amount (2 oz) and adjust to taste. Another option is mascarpone cheese, which will give a richer, creamier result, very similar to cream cheese. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Just be aware that the flavor might be slightly different depending on the brand you choose.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While Honey Butter Skillet Corn is best served immediately, you can certainly make it ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry after refrigeration. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different after reheating, as the corn may soften a bit more.
Q4: Can I add any other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Definitely! This recipe is very adaptable, and you can easily add other vegetables to make it even more nutritious and flavorful. Chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) work well and add a pop of color. Diced onions or shallots can be sautéed in the butter before adding the corn for extra depth of flavor. Other great additions include diced zucchini, chopped spinach, or even some roasted red peppers for a smoky twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on the vegetables you choose.
Q5: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: There are several ways to add a spicy kick to your Honey Butter Skillet Corn. One of the easiest is to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the corn. You can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For a more complex flavor, try adding a small amount of finely chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper. If you prefer a milder spice, consider using smoked paprika. You can also sprinkle a little chili powder. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste until you reach your desired level of spiciness. Remember, you can always add more spice, but it’s hard to take it away once it’s in there!
