
There's something incredibly comforting about the sound of corn sizzling in a hot skillet, blending harmoniously with the rich aromas of butter and sweet honey. I discovered this delightful Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe during one of those busy weekday evenings when I craved something homemade yet effortless. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish transforms simple frozen corn into a creamy, sweet side that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Imagine serving this luscious corn dish at your next family gathering, where its velvety texture and golden hue steal the spotlight. It's the kind of side you can pair with just about anything-grilled meats, barbecued favorites, or even tacos for a sweet twist. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for adding a touch of indulgence to your meals. Let's dive in and bring sweetness to your table!

Why is Honey Butter Skillet Corn so irresistible?
Simplicity: This easy recipe transforms frozen corn into a gourmet side dish with minimal effort.
Sweet and Creamy: The rich flavors of butter and honey meld seamlessly, creating an indulgent taste everyone will love.
Versatile: Perfect alongside grilled meats or as a topping for tacos, it's a fantastic addition to any meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, and watch it disappear-it's that good!
Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 15 minutes, it's ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something delightful.
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Ingredients
For the Skillet Corn
- Butter - This adds richness and ensures the corn doesn't stick during cooking.
- Honey - Sweetens the dish, perfectly balancing the savory butter flavor.
- Frozen Corn - The star ingredient! Its natural sweetness transforms this into comfort food; fresh corn can elevate the texture.
- Cream Cheese - Provides a luxuriously creamy mouthfeel; consider dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan alternative.
For Garnish and Spice
- Fresh Parsley or Chives (optional) - Adds a pop of color and freshness for visual appeal.
- Black Pepper or Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) - Introduces a gentle hint of spice to balance the sweetness of the dish.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn
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Heat the Skillet: Begin by heating a medium skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt until it fully coats the bottom, creating a luscious base.
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Add Honey: Next, stir in the honey, allowing it to blend with the warm butter. You'll know it's ready when the mixture is fragrant and slightly bubbly.
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Incorporate the Corn: Add frozen corn to the skillet, stirring continuously for about 5-7 minutes. Cook until the corn is heated through and tender, turning a vibrant yellow.
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Mix in Cream Cheese: Lower the heat to low, then add cream cheese. Gently stir until it melts seamlessly into the corn mixture, creating a creamy texture.
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Simmer to Perfection: Allow the dish to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will ensure everything is well combined and warm throughout.
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Serve and Garnish: Serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for added color. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle black pepper or red pepper flakes on top.
Optional: Drizzle a little extra honey before serving for an extra sweet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Freezer: You can freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn, but be aware that cream cheese may alter in texture. Consume within a month for best results.
- Thawing: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in a skillet, which helps restore its velvety consistency.
- Room Temperature: It's best to avoid leaving this dish at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to ensure safety and quality.
What to Serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Imagine the warm, buttery sweetness of this delightful corn side dish elevating your meal from ordinary to extraordinary!
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet and creamy corn, creating a comforting balance on your plate.
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Barbecue Ribs: The richness of barbecue ribs harmonizes perfectly with the sweet notes of the corn, making each bite a flavor explosion.
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Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a medley of roasted vegetables; their crispy texture contrasts wonderfully with the smooth creaminess of the corn.
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Tacos: Add this corn to your favorite taco fillings for a surprising sweet twist; it's like a festive fiesta in every bite!
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Cornbread: Pairing honey butter skillet corn with warm, buttery cornbread enhances that lovely sweetness, delivering the ultimate comfort food experience.
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Margaritas: A refreshing margarita can accentuate the sweetness of the corn while providing a zesty contrast that dances on your palate.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, bring out an apple pie. The combination of sweet corn and warm apple pie creates an irresistible end to your meal.
Expert Tips for Honey Butter Skillet Corn
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Melt the Butter Fully: Ensure the butter is fully melted before adding corn to prevent sticking and achieve a smooth texture.
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Stir Frequently: While simmering, stir the mixture often to maintain a creamy consistency and prevent clumping of the cream cheese.
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Fresh Corn Adjustment: If using fresh corn, remember to cook it a few extra minutes to soften it properly, ensuring the best Honey Butter Skillet Corn experience.
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Avoid Microwave Reheating: Instead of using a microwave to reheat, gently warm in a skillet to preserve the creamy texture and rich flavors.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don't hesitate to add smoked paprika or fresh herbs, enhancing the dish while keeping it sweet and creamy.
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Variations
Customize your Honey Butter Skillet Corn with these delightful twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap butter and cream cheese for vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese to keep it creamy without dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a warm, spicy twist that enhances the sweetness of the corn.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or cilantro during the last minute of cooking for a fragrant, garden-fresh flavor.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar or crumbled feta cheese just before serving for an extra creamy and savory punch.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or chopped walnuts on top for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
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Maple Twist: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a uniquely sweet and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with corn's natural sweetness.
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Meal Upgrade: Use this mixture as a filling for quesadillas or enchiladas for an unexpected yet satisfying meal.
Add a dash of creativity to your cooking, and watch as your Honey Butter Skillet Corn evolves into your new favorite dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Butter Skillet Corn are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the corn mixture (butter, honey, and cream cheese) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Simply combine the melted butter and honey, then cool before folding in the cream cheese. When you're ready to serve, simply heat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat, add the frozen corn, and stir for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This ensures the dish remains just as delicious and creamy without compromising on flavor and texture. Enjoy the time-saving benefits while still delighting your family with a warm, comforting side!

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Absolutely! While frozen corn works beautifully for this recipe, using fresh corn on the cob will give you a juicier, more vibrant dish. If you opt for fresh corn, simply cook it a few extra minutes until tender for the best results.
How should I store leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Store any leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain that delicious creamy texture.
Can I freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Yes, you can freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn! However, be mindful that the texture of the cream cheese might change. To freeze, place the corn in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring all air is removed. For best quality, consume within a month. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet for an optimal experience.
What can I do if my Honey Butter Skillet Corn is too sweet?
If the dish turns out sweeter than you'd like, you can balance it by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice. Both options will help offset the sweetness and enhance the overall flavors of this creamy side.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt Honey Butter Skillet Corn for various dietary needs. If you're vegan, just substitute the butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives. For those with allergies, make sure to choose honey that fits your specific dietary requirements, or consider using agave syrup as a substitute for a similar sweetness without the honey.
What if my corn sticks to the skillet?
If you experience sticking, ensure that the butter is fully melted and coats the skillet before adding corn. Stirring frequently while cooking also helps prevent sticking. If you're using cream cheese, make sure to maintain a lower heat as it melts; this will help maintain a smooth mixture without clumping.

Sweet and Creamy Honey Butter Skillet Corn You’ll Crave!
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
For the Skillet Corn
- 4 tablespoons Butter This adds richness and ensures the corn doesn’t stick during cooking.
- 3 tablespoons Honey Sweetens the dish, perfectly balancing the savory butter flavor.
- 16 ounces Frozen Corn The star ingredient! Its natural sweetness transforms this into comfort food.
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese Provides a luxuriously creamy mouthfeel; consider dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan alternative.
For Garnish and Spice
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley or Chives Adds a pop of color and freshness for visual appeal.
- Black Pepper or Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Introduces a gentle hint of spice to balance the sweetness of the dish.
Instructions
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn
- Begin by heating a medium skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt until it fully coats the bottom, creating a luscious base.
- Next, stir in the honey, allowing it to blend with the warm butter. You'll know it's ready when the mixture is fragrant and slightly bubbly.
- Add frozen corn to the skillet, stirring continuously for about 5–7 minutes. Cook until the corn is heated through and tender, turning a vibrant yellow.
- Lower the heat to low, then add cream cheese. Gently stir until it melts seamlessly into the corn mixture, creating a creamy texture.
- Allow the dish to simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will ensure everything is well combined and warm throughout.
- Serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for added color. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle black pepper or red pepper flakes on top.





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