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 comfort to any meal. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think of the warm summer evenings spent with family, where the aroma of sweet corn mingles with the rich scent of melted butter. This dish has its roots in Southern cuisine, where corn is a staple ingredient, often celebrated for its versatility and flavor. People love Honey Butter Skillet Corn not just for its delicious taste, but also for its creamy texture and the way it effortlessly complements a variety of main courses. Whether served at a barbecue or as a side for a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and satisfying. Join me as we dive into this sweet and savory treat that’s 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 shucked, hold each ear of corn upright in a large bowl and carefully slice down the sides with a sharp knife to remove the kernels. Make sure to get as much of the corn off as possible. 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. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t brown too much; we want it just melted and bubbly. 5. Once the butter is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the honey. Mix well until the honey is fully incorporated into the butter. 6. Add the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) to the honey butter mixture. Stir until everything is well combined. The aroma of the honey and butter together is simply divine!

Cooking the Corn

7. 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 sear. 8. Once the skillet is hot, add the corn kernels. If you’re using fresh corn, you’ll want to cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’re using canned corn, cook for about 3-5 minutes until heated through. 9. As the corn cooks, you’ll notice it starting to caramelize slightly, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Keep stirring to ensure even cooking.

Combining the Ingredients

10. Once the corn is cooked to your liking, reduce the heat to low. Pour the honey butter mixture over the corn, making sure to coat all the kernels evenly. 11. Add the fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme) to the skillet and stir everything together. The thyme adds a lovely herbal note that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully. 12. 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

13. Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. 14. Transfer the honey butter skillet corn to a serving dish. I like to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. 15. Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite main course. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a topping for tacos!

Tips and Variations

16. If you want to add a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when cooking the corn. 17. For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. 18. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese on top for a savory twist. 19. This dish is also great for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve. Enjoy your delicious honey butter skillet corn! It’s a sweet and savory side dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

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 a holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. 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 a burst of freshness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating some diced jalapeños for a spicy twist! 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 it turned out for you and any creative twists you added to make it your own. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

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