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Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a quick and comforting side dish that brings together sweet, creamy, and buttery flavors in just minutes. This recipe is perfect when you want a hassle-free vegetable that feels special enough for family dinners or casual gatherings.
I made this for the first time on a busy weeknight and it quickly became a meal favorite. Now I always double the recipe when serving guests.
Ingredients
- Frozen corn: around 20 to 24 ounces adds a fresh sweetness and convenience—look for non-GMO or organic if you can
- Cream cheese: about a half block at room temperature melts smoothly for rich creaminess
- Butter: three tablespoons build the buttery base—salted or unsalted both work fine
- Honey: two tablespoons bring a natural sweetness that rounds out the flavors beautifully
- Salt: half a teaspoon enhances all the other ingredients
- Pepper: half a teaspoon adds just the right amount of warmth
- Dried parsley: two teaspoons optional but adds a nice pop of color and mild herb flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté and combine ingredients:
- Add frozen corn, softened cream cheese, butter, honey, salt, and pepper to a skillet over medium heat. Stir continuously so the cream cheese melts evenly and all ingredients blend together. Cook for seven to ten minutes until everything is heated through and creamy.
- Add parsley garnish:
- Sprinkle dried parsley over the cooked corn then give it one last gentle stir before serving. The parsley adds a fresh touch in both color and flavor.
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Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often to restore creaminess without drying out the dish. This is a great make-ahead for busy weeknights when you want something quick and tasty.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap cream cheese for a mix of cream or milk with a bit of flour to thicken if needed but the texture will differ. Maple syrup or brown sugar can replace honey in a pinch to keep the sweetness and add a deeper flavor. Fresh parsley can be substituted for dried but add it just before serving to keep the bright green color.
Serving Suggestions
This corn dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork chops and a simple green salad. It also works well spooned alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for an extra comforting meal. For a southern twist, serve with cornbread and collard greens.
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Cultural Context
Corn is a staple in many American and indigenous cuisines and has been enjoyed for centuries as a versatile vegetable. Adding butter and honey creates a nostalgic flavor combination often found in southern cooking traditions. This recipe celebrates simple, home-style comfort food with a modern easy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can fresh corn be used instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh corn can be substituted. Use about 3 cups of fresh kernels, and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they soften properly without overcooking.
- → Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese beforehand?
Softening cream cheese helps it melt evenly and blend smoothly with the corn, but if pressed for time, cutting it into smaller pieces can help it incorporate better.
- → Can salted butter be used without adding extra salt?
Salted butter can be used, but taste the dish toward the end and reduce the added salt accordingly to prevent over-seasoning.
- → What can be used in place of dried parsley?
Fresh parsley, chives, or green onions can be substituted to add a fresh herbal note. Adjust quantity based on preference.
- → How long should the dish be cooked to ensure creaminess?
Cooking over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes allows the cream cheese to melt fully and the flavors to meld without drying out the corn.