Corn in a Honey Butter Skillet is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and buttery goodness. The sweetness of honey enhances the natural flavor of corn, while the rich butter creates a smooth and creamy texture. This easy-to-make side dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to summer barbecues or even simple weeknight dinners. With a quick cook time and a few pantry staples, this dish will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn, if using fresh)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for added crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- A squeeze of fresh lime (optional for extra zest)
Instructions:
- Prep the Corn:
- If using fresh corn, carefully remove the husks and cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife. If using frozen corn, simply thaw and drain the kernels before use.
- Heat the Skillet:
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil (if using) to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt completely and start to bubble lightly.
- Cook the Corn:
- Once the butter is melted, add the corn kernels to the skillet. Stir the corn gently to coat it evenly with the butter. Let the corn cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to turn golden and becomes slightly crispy in some spots. This adds extra flavor and texture to the dish.
- Sweeten with Honey:
- Drizzle the honey over the cooked corn. Stir to combine, allowing the honey to melt into the corn and coat it evenly. The heat will caramelize the honey slightly, giving the corn a rich, golden sweetness.
- Season:
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir well to ensure the seasonings are distributed evenly.
- Finish and Garnish:
- Once the corn is cooked and well-seasoned, remove the skillet from the heat. Optionally, squeeze a little fresh lime juice over the top for a citrusy zing. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve:
- Transfer the honey butter corn to a serving dish, and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a stand-alone snack.