Honey Butter Skillet Corn: A Deliciously Sweet and Savory Side Dish Recipe

Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delightful dish that brings a touch of sweetness and warmth to any meal. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think about the rich history behind it. Corn has been a staple in many cultures, particularly in the Americas, where it has been celebrated for centuries. This dish combines the natural sweetness of corn with the lusciousness of honey and butter, creating a flavor profile that is simply irresistible.

People love Honey Butter Skillet Corn not just for its taste, but also for its delightful texture. The tender kernels, coated in a creamy, buttery glaze, create a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can stand alone as a satisfying vegetarian option. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Join me as we dive into this sweet and savory treat that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6-8 ears of corn) or 2 cans of corn, drained
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Corn

1. If you’re using fresh corn, start by shucking the corn. Remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn. This can be a bit messy, but it’s part of the fun! 2. Once the corn is shucked, hold each ear upright in a large bowl and use a sharp knife to cut down the sides, removing the kernels. Make sure to cut close to the cob to get all the sweet corn goodness. 3. If you’re using canned corn, simply drain the corn and set it aside.

Making the Honey Butter Mixture

4. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. I love using a heavy-bottomed pan for this because it distributes the heat evenly. 5. Once the butter is melted, add the honey to the pan. Stir the mixture gently with a whisk or a wooden spoon until the honey is fully incorporated into the butter. 6. Add the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) to the butter and honey mixture. Stir well to combine. The smoked paprika adds a lovely depth of flavor, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a more classic taste. 7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside.

Cooking the Corn

8. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or a little more butter over medium-high heat. This will help prevent the corn from sticking and give it a nice golden color. 9. Once the oil is hot, add the fresh corn kernels (or drained canned corn) to the skillet. Spread them out evenly in the pan. 10. Let the corn cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes. This allows the corn to caramelize slightly, enhancing its natural sweetness. 11. After 3-4 minutes, stir the corn and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the corn to be tender but still have a bit of crunch. 12. Once the corn is cooked to your liking, reduce the heat to low.

Combining the Ingredients

13. Pour the honey butter mixture over the cooked corn in the skillet. Stir gently to coat all the corn evenly with the sweet and buttery goodness. 14. Add the fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme) to the skillet. Stir again to combine. The thyme adds a wonderful herbal note that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully. 15. Allow the corn to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together.

Serving the Dish

16. Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. 17. Transfer the honey butter skillet corn to a serving dish. I like to use a large bowl or a platter to showcase the vibrant colors of the corn. 18. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This step is optional, but it adds a nice touch! 19. Serve the honey butter skillet corn warm as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, barbecued chicken, or even as a topping for tacos.

Tips and Variations

20. If you want to add a bit of heat, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the skillet while cooking the corn. 21. For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. 22. If you have leftover corn, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. This honey butter skillet corn is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. The combination of sweet honey, rich butter, and fresh corn creates a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

In summary, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their side dish game. The combination of sweet honey and creamy butter creates a delightful flavor that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the corn. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or even as a quick weeknight side, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delicious corn with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a topping for tacos. You can also experiment with variations by adding spices like paprika or chili powder for a little kick, or mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an extra layer of flavor. I encourage you to give this Honey Butter Skillet Corn a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how you made it your own or any unique twists you added! So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this sweet and savory dish that is bound to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

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