Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Sweet creamy and downright irresistible this Honey Butter Skillet Corn has become that little side dish everyone always asks for at holiday dinners and backyard barbecues The combination of melty butter luscious honey and soft cream cheese wraps every kernel in a glossy buttery glaze It is quick enough for a busy weeknight when you need a veggie with almost zero effort but decadent enough to set beside a roast chicken or holiday ham

I first tried this on a whim during a hectic Thanksgiving prep and it was gone before I could get a second helping Now my family asks me to double the batch every time they spot corn in the freezer

Ingredients

• Butter: Salted for rich flavor and silky texture Choose a high quality butter because it anchors this dish
• Honey: Delivers sweetness and glossy shine Local honey gives an extra floral note but any good honey works
• Frozen corn: Provides year round convenience and consistent texture Look for whole kernel varieties without added sauce or seasonings
• Cream cheese: Brings creamy body and tangy flavor Use block cream cheese for the best melt
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors A flaky sea salt can be extra nice here
• Black pepper: Gives a mellow heat and depth Freshly ground makes a real difference for aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Butter and Honey:

In a large skillet over medium high heat add the butter and honey Stir gently as they melt together You are looking for a lightly bubbling golden sauce that smells heavenly

Cook the Corn:

Pour in the frozen corn and spread it out Make sure every kernel gets a little butter bath Cook for about five to eight minutes stirring occasionally until the corn is bright yellow and steamy fully thawed but not mushy

Add Cream Cheese and Seasonings:

Scatter the cream cheese chunks over the hot corn along with the salt and pepper Stir often as the cream cheese melts into the sauce This should take three to five minutes and the corn will look saucy and creamy with no big lumps

Combine and Serve:

Once everything is silky and well combined taste for salt and serve right away while piping hot The sauce will thicken as it cools

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I have always been a fan of adding a dash more honey for extra shine It reminds me of my grandmas holiday spreads where every dish had a special twist We would gather in the kitchen to sneak bites of corn straight from the skillet before anyone noticed

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days When reheating you may need to add a splash of milk or a dab of butter to restore the creamy texture This corn does not freeze perfectly because the cream cheese sauce can separate but it is still pretty tasty if you decide to freeze a bit for lunches

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap fresh corn sliced off the cob when in season or use canned corn drained thoroughly Lactose free cream cheese can work for dairy sensitivities and for a savory twist try stirring in a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped chives If you only have unsalted butter just add a tiny extra sprinkle of salt to balance the flavors

Serving Suggestions

Pile this corn alongside grilled meats or roasted veggies for an instant comfort side Add spoonfuls over baked sweet potatoes or use leftovers to stuff into burritos or enchiladas At holidays it is a fun upgrade from plain corn and it pairs perfectly with ham turkey or creamy mashed potatoes

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You will find yourself making this Honey Butter Skillet Corn anytime you need a fast crowd pleasing side The flavor is so much more than the sum of its parts and there is never any left on the plate

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh corn works well. Simply cut kernels from the cob and cook as directed for similar results.

→ Is it necessary to use salted butter?

Salted butter enhances flavor, but unsalted butter can be used. Consider adding a pinch more salt if needed.

→ Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?

For a creamier or lighter version, try mascarpone or a dairy-free soft cheese alternative.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store any remaining corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, prepare in advance and gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring until warmed through.

→ Will this work as a holiday side?

Its creamy texture and balanced sweetness make it a delicious addition to festive meals or potlucks.