This sweet and buttery skillet corn is a perfect side dish for any meal. It’s quick to make and packed with yummy flavor that everyone will love!
You can’t go wrong with the combo of honey and butter—it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds. I often make this to brighten up weeknight dinners. It’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is a fantastic choice because it brings delicious sweetness and crunch. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works just fine. It’s easy to keep on hand and still offers great flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for this recipe as it lets you control salt levels. You could substitute with olive oil or a dairy-free spread if you’re looking for a lighter or vegan option.
Honey: Honey adds that sweet touch. For a vegan alternative, consider maple syrup or agave nectar. They both bring a unique flavor that works well in this dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives an amazing aroma and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute in half the amount, but fresh is always better when you can!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory?
The key to this skillet corn is how you blend the honey and salt. Start by sautéing the garlic in butter, which creates a tasty base. Then when you add honey, mix well to balance out the flavors. The sweetness should complement the garlic, not overpower it.
- Cook the corn until just tender; this keeps it crisp and flavorful.
- Always taste before serving! Adjust the salt and honey to your preferred flavor.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs like chives or parsley adds color and a fresh note that brightens the dish.
Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn if fresh)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it a fantastic addition to any meal without spending too much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparation of the Skillet:
Start by heating a cast-iron skillet or regular frying pan over medium heat. This step is crucial as it ensures the butter melts evenly and prevents sticking.
2. Melting the Butter:
Once your skillet is warm, add in the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely while keeping an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
3. Sautéing the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic into the melted butter and sauté for about 30 seconds. You want to cook it just until it becomes fragrant, giving your dish a wonderful aroma. Be careful not to let it brown or burn!
4. Adding the Corn:
Now it’s time to add the corn kernels! Stir them into the skillet, coating them well with the buttery garlic mixture.
5. Mixing in the Honey:
Drizzle in the honey, mixing everything together so that all the flavors blend beautifully. This is where the magic happens!
6. Cooking the Corn:
Cook the corn for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the corn to be tender and heated through but still have a nice crunch.
7. Seasoning:
Don’t forget to season your corn! Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste. Start with a little, and you can always add more if needed!
8. Final Touch and Serving:
Remove the skillet from the heat. If you like, sprinkle some chopped chives or parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
9. Enjoy!
Your honey butter skillet corn is ready to serve warm! This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, barbecues, or even as a tasty side for your favorite comfort dinners. Enjoy the sweet, buttery goodness!
This easy recipe promises a delightful mix of sweet, buttery flavors, making it a surefire hit at any mealtime!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh Corn?
Absolutely! Frozen corn is a great alternative and usually cooks faster than fresh. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the skillet for even cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the corn and sauté it ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, then reheat in the skillet with a little extra butter to revive the flavors.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet flavor, start with 1 tablespoon of honey, taste, and then add more if desired. You can also substitute with less sweet options like agave or even skip the honey altogether for a savory twist.
What Should I Serve With Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, barbecued foods, or even as a topping for tacos. It also makes a great addition to any holiday spread or potluck!
