Name: Sweet and Creamy Honey Butter Skillet Corn in 15 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Salted Butter (Use unsalted butter if preferred.); 2 tablespoons Honey (Maple syrup can be used as a substitute.); 16 oz Frozen Corn (No need to thaw.); 2 oz Cream Cheese (Use full-fat for best texture.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.)

As I stood in the kitchen, the warm aroma of sizzling butter filled the air, instantly whisking me back to those family gatherings where comfort food reigns supreme. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Honey Butter Skillet Corn—a creamy side dish that comes together in just 15 minutes! The delightful blend of sweet honey and rich butter creates an irresistible harmony, while the cream cheese adds that luxurious, velvety texture we all crave. It’s the perfect quick fix for busy weeknights or a crowd-pleasing addition to any potluck. Plus, using frozen corn means no fussing with extra prep time! Are you ready to elevate your side dish game and please even the pickiest of eaters? Let’s get started!

Why is Honey Butter Skillet Corn a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 15 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you need something delicious in a flash.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy, sweet flavor, it’s guaranteed to win over even the pickiest of eaters at family dinners or potlucks.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even tacos—the options are endless!
Simple Ingredients: Made with frozen corn, honey, and cream cheese, you likely have everything you need right at home. Check out my other recipes like Street Corn Cucumber and Louisiana Shrimp Corn for more quick meal ideas!
Kid-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love this dish, making it a winning choice for family gatherings.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Ingredients

For the Dish

Butter – Use salted butter for added richness; adjust salt if using unsalted.
Honey – Adds a sweet touch that perfectly complements the savory elements; maple syrup works in a pinch.
Frozen Corn – The star ingredient; choose sweet yellow or white corn, and there’s no need to thaw before cooking.
Cream Cheese – Ensure a creamy texture with full-fat block cream cheese; sour cream can be a lighter alternative.
Salt – A must to enhance flavors; tailor to suit the saltiness of your butter.
Black Pepper – Imparts a subtle heat and depth; feel free to adjust based on your taste.

Enjoy making this delightful Honey Butter Skillet Corn – it will soon become your go-to side dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Honey
In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of salted butter and 2 tablespoons of honey. Allow the mixture to bubble gently, stirring occasionally for about 2 minutes. Watch for the butter to fully melt and begin to froth, creating a warm, inviting base for your Honey Butter Skillet Corn.

Step 2: Add the Frozen Corn
Carefully pour in 16 oz (1 bag) of frozen corn, stirring it into the buttery honey mixture. Cook for approximately 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and tender. The kernels should be bright yellow and glistening, indicating they are ready to soak up all that delicious flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Cream Cheese and Seasoning
Reduce the heat to medium, and add 2 oz of cream cheese along with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper to the corn mix. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring the cream cheese melts entirely and combines seamlessly with the corn, creating a creamy, luscious sauce that envelops each kernel.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the dish is warm, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn immediately while hot, allowing everyone to relish the sweet and creamy goodness. This delightful side pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, ensuring that you have a crowd-pleaser on your table.

What to Serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn

This creamy side dish is the perfect companion for your favorite main courses, transforming any meal into a heartfelt celebration of flavors.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet and creamy corn, creating a delightful contrast.
BBQ Ribs: Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn alongside BBQ ribs for a balanced plate that marries sweet and savory elements, ideal for summer gatherings.
Tacos: Whether vegetarian or loaded with meat, tacos and their vibrant flavors match perfectly with the richness of the corn, making each bite a fiesta.
Roasted Vegetables: Crispy, charred roasted vegetables add a necessary crunch and earthiness that complements the tender sweetness of the corn beautifully.
Cornbread: Nothing says comfort like cornbread! The combination of these two corn dishes amplifies that warm, homestyle vibe everyone loves.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal, bringing a refreshing contrast to the creamy sweetness of the corn.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, an apple crisp provides a fruity finish, echoing the sweetness of the corn while introducing warm spices that tantalize the taste buds.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this creamy side dish to suit your tastes!

Fresh Corn: Swap frozen corn for fresh corn cut off the cob for a vibrant, summery twist. Just be sure it’s cooked first!
Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, like cashew cream or coconut yogurt, for a vegan-friendly version.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the corn mix for a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or chives at the end for a fresh, aromatic pop that brightens the dish.
Cheesy Variation: Mix in shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, after adding the cream cheese for extra cheesiness that kids will love.
Nutty Flavor: Top your corn with a sprinkle of toasted almond slivers or crushed walnuts to add a nice crunch and nutty element.
Sweet & Savory: Try stirring in some crispy, crumbled bacon or pancetta for a sweet and smoky flavor combination that’s simply delicious.
Maple Twist: For a different sweet note, substitute honey with maple syrup to create an equally luscious glaze.

Check out my other recipes, like the Street Corn Chicken or Mexican Street Corn, that bring a twist to classic flavors! Enjoy exploring these variations!

Expert Tips for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Cream Cheese Prep: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature or slightly softened before adding it to prevent clumping in the hot corn.
Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, mix in spices like Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes. They complement the sweetness of the Honey Butter Skillet Corn beautifully.
Timing is Key: Serve this dish immediately for the best texture. Reheating may alter the creamy consistency due to the cream cheese.
Fresh vs. Frozen: While frozen corn is the star here, fresh corn cut off the cob can elevate the dish—just make sure it’s cooked properly!
Adjust the Sweetness: Taste as you go! If you prefer a sweeter dish, feel free to add more honey, but balance it with additional salt to keep the flavors vibrant.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the mixture thickens.
Freezer: You can freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn for up to 2 months. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen corn, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop, stirring well.
Reheating: When reheating, aim for a low heat to maintain the creamy texture—avoid boiling to keep the sauce from separating.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Butter Skillet Corn are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the corn mixture (butter, honey, and seasonings) up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Simply cook the frozen corn and incorporate the prepped mixture when you’re ready to finish the dish. For the best quality, wait to add the cream cheese until you’re ready to serve, as this ensures a creamy consistency without clumping. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, just heat the corn mixture in a skillet, stir in the cream cheese until melted, and you’ll have a delicious side dish that’s just as wonderful as when freshly made!

Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best frozen corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting frozen corn, look for bags that contain bright, plump kernels without any dark spots or ice crystals. This often indicates freshness. You can choose sweet yellow corn, white corn, or even a mix, based on your personal preference. The key is to make sure it’s of good quality for the best flavor in your Honey Butter Skillet Corn!

What is the best way to store leftovers of Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Store any leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop. If the mixture thickens, don’t forget to add a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture!

Can I freeze Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Yes, you can! To freeze this dish, first allow it to cool completely. Then, place portions into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting, then reheat on the stovetop.

What if my cream cheese clumps in the skillet?
No worries! To prevent this, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the hot corn. It’s also a good idea to stir continuously once you add it, allowing it to melt evenly into the corn. If you notice clumping, you can use a whisk to help break it up and achieve that creamy consistency.

Is this Honey Butter Skillet Corn suitable for everyone, including children?
Very! This dish is incredibly kid-friendly, with its sweet and creamy flavors that appeal to even the pickiest eaters. Additionally, it can be made nut-free, and with simple ingredient swaps (like using dairy-free cream cheese), it can be suitable for various dietary preferences. Always check for allergies if serving to guests, just to be safe!

How long can I serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn after cooking?
This dish is best served immediately while it’s warm and creamy. However, you can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 hours if needed. Beyond that, it’s advisable to refrigerate any leftovers to maintain its quality and safety.