Introduction
Transform humble corn into a sensational side dish with this Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe! It’s unbelievably easy, bursting with flavor, and perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to fancy BBQs. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this crowd-pleasing treat – it’s so good, you’ll want seconds (and thirds!).
Why This Works
This recipe hits all the right notes: sweet, savory, and a touch of salty. The honey and butter create a luscious glaze that perfectly complements the corn’s natural sweetness. It’s also incredibly easy – minimal prep and cleanup make it a winner for busy weeknights! Plus, the skillet method ensures perfectly tender corn with slightly charred kernels for added texture.
Key Ingredients
- 🌽 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
- 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 🍯 1/4 cup honey
- 🧂 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 🌶️ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Corn: If using fresh corn on the cob, remove the kernels from the cob. You can do this by holding the cob upright and using a sharp knife to cut down the sides.
2️⃣ Melt the Butter: In a large skillet (cast iron is ideal!), melt the butter over medium heat.
3️⃣ Add the Corn: Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kernels begin to brown slightly.
4️⃣ Sweeten It Up: Stir in the honey, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the honey is bubbling and the corn is coated in a delicious glaze.
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder along with the salt and pepper.
- If you don’t have fresh corn, you can use frozen corn – just be sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the skillet.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! If you have a lot of corn, work in batches to ensure even cooking.
Heat Control
Medium heat is key here. Too high, and the butter will burn before the corn is cooked through. Too low, and the corn will steam instead of getting that lovely caramelization. Keep a close eye on it and adjust as needed.
Crunch Factor
The slight char on the corn kernels adds a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy honey butter glaze. It’s a delightful combination of tender and slightly crunchy!
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a smoky flavor, try grilling the corn on the cob before cutting off the kernels.
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end brightens up the flavors beautifully.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Storage Tips
Leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This delicious side dish makes a fantastic gift! Package it in a pretty mason jar or a small, heat-safe container. Tie a ribbon around it and add a handwritten tag with the recipe.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Honey Butter Corn: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
🌟 Citrusy Honey Butter Corn: Add the zest and juice of half a lime or lemon for a refreshing twist.
🌟 Cheesy Honey Butter Corn: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking.
🌟 Maple-Honey Butter Corn: Replace half of the honey with maple syrup for a richer, deeper flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Burnt Butter: If the butter burns, start again with fresh butter and lower the heat.
- Dry Corn: If the corn seems dry, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to the skillet while cooking.
FAQ
- Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best served immediately, but you can prepare the corn and glaze ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.
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What kind of honey is best? Any type of honey will work, but a darker honey, like buckwheat or clover, will add a more robust flavor.
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Can I use frozen corn? Yes, just make sure it’s completely thawed before adding it to the skillet.
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What can I serve this with? This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is delicious with grilled meats, fish, or poultry. It also makes a fantastic addition to tacos or burritos.
Conclusion
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe is a total winner! It’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. So grab some corn, gather your family, and get cooking! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on Ratemyrecipes.com – we can’t wait to see your photos!