Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
If you’re searching for a side dish that’s as easy as it is irresistibly delicious, Honey Butter Skillet Corn is about to become your new go-to recipe. Each bite is a celebration of plump, sweet corn kernels tossed in a lush, creamy sauce made from golden butter, honey, and just the right hint of salt and pepper. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this dish wins hearts fast and pairs with nearly anything on the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This beautifully simple recipe leans on a handful of pantry staples, each one playing a starring role. From the rich silkiness of butter to the pop of sweet corn, every ingredient is there for a reason—delivering layers of flavor and a wonderfully creamy texture that make Honey Butter Skillet Corn truly special.
- Unsalted Butter: Gives a rich, creamy base that lets the other flavors shine; unsalted keeps the dish from becoming overly salty.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and a glossy finish while balancing the salty and creamy notes.
- Frozen Corn: Offers convenience and consistent sweetness; no need to thaw before using—just add straight to the pan.
- Cream Cheese: Makes the sauce extra luxurious and gives an irresistible creamy texture; be sure to cube it for even melting.
- Salt: Enhances every other ingredient, making those sweet and creamy flavors pop.
- Black Pepper: Lends a gentle peppery heat that keeps the dish balanced and vibrant.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Begin by setting your skillet over medium heat and adding the unsalted butter. Let it melt slowly, swirling occasionally, until it’s completely liquid and smells deliciously nutty. The butter is your flavor foundation—don’t rush it!
Step 2: Stir in the Honey
Once your butter’s melted, pour in the honey. Use your spoon to stir them together until the mixture is smooth, golden, and fragrant. At this stage, you’ll notice the honey and butter combining into a luscious, glossy sauce—the heart of Honey Butter Skillet Corn.
Step 3: Add the Frozen Corn
Dump the frozen corn straight from the bag into the skillet—no thawing needed! Stir to coat every kernel in that sweet honey-butter goodness. Continue cooking, occasionally stirring, for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the corn is heated through and just starting to turn a bit golden at the edges.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Scatter in the cubes of cream cheese, then stir gently as they melt. This is what transforms the dish from just “buttery corn” into luxuriously creamy Honey Butter Skillet Corn. It should only take a couple minutes for the cream cheese to melt and coat every kernel.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Now for the finishing touches! Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Give everything a good mix, then taste to see if you’d like a bit more seasoning. Remove from the heat, and your side dish is ready to impress. Serve it warm for maximum creaminess and flavor impact.
How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and flavor, try topping your Honey Butter Skillet Corn with finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, or even a sprinkle of mild red pepper flakes. A dusting of smoked paprika can add beautiful visual appeal and just a whisper of smoky flavor.
Side Dishes
This creamy corn side is incredibly versatile. It’s a natural match for grilled chicken, sizzling steaks, or barbecue salmon. On the holidays, it happily shares the stage with turkey, ham, or a classic roast. You could even serve it alongside a crisp green salad or baked potatoes for a cozy vegetarian meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Honey Butter Skillet Corn looks especially stunning in a cast-iron skillet, straight from the stove to the table. Want to jazz it up? Spoon it into individual ramekins for dinner parties, or use it as a vibrant topping for cornbread or baked sweet potatoes. It also makes an unforgettable filling for stuffed peppers or savory pies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Honey Butter Skillet Corn (although leftovers vanish quickly!), let it cool to room temperature first. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, staying creamy and flavorful.
Freezing
Freezing is a breeze! Portion the corn into freezer-safe containers or bags, squeeze out the excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture may be slightly creamier, but the flavor remains fantastic.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Honey Butter Skillet Corn in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently. If it thickens too much, just splash in a tablespoon of milk or water to restore creaminess. You can also use the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re lucky enough to have fresh corn, slice it off the cob and follow the recipe. Your Honey Butter Skillet Corn will be even more vibrant and sweet during peak season.
What’s the best way to make this spicier?
To add some gentle heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during step 3. The spice blends beautifully with the honey-butter creaminess and wakes up the flavors.
Can I make Honey Butter Skillet Corn ahead of time?
You sure can! Simply prepare the dish as described, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk just before serving, and it’ll taste freshly made.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes—Honey Butter Skillet Corn is completely gluten-free as written. Always double-check your ingredient labels if you have strict dietary needs, but this recipe is a safe and satisfying choice for many diets.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches if needed. This side scales up easily, making it perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or festive holiday dinners.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a side that wows with buttery comfort and a whisper of sweetness, you owe it to yourself to try Honey Butter Skillet Corn. It’s destined to become a favorite on your table, whether you’re hosting a celebration or making a simple weeknight meal. Give it a try and watch everyone fall in love!
Print
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a creamy and sweet side dish that is quick and easy to make. The combination of butter, honey, and cream cheese creates a luscious sauce that coats the tender corn kernels perfectly.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 package (16 ounces) frozen corn
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Combine honey: Stir in the honey until smooth and combined.
- Add corn: Add the frozen corn and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in cream cheese: Add the cream cheese cubes and stir until melted and creamy.
- Season: Season with salt and black pepper.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen corn with fresh corn kernels when in season.
- For a touch of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or as a holiday side.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg