Name: Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter (I use salted); 2 tablespoons honey; 1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn (any frozen corn works); 2 ounces cream cheese (cut into chunks); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Introduction to Honey Butter Skillet Corn

When it comes to mealtime, homemade sides have the magic to transform any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Honey Butter Skillet Corn is one of those gems! With its delightful combination of sweet honey and creamy butter, this recipe not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of your plate. According to a recent article by the USDA, incorporating diverse vegetables, like corn, into your meals can enhance your overall health, providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Making your sides at home gives you the opportunity to customize flavors to your liking and control the ingredients you use. It’s easy and often more economical than store-bought options. Picture this: you’re sitting down for dinner, and your guests’ faces light up as they taste your Honey Butter Skillet Corn. It’s simple, yet the sweet and savory notes elevate even the simplest of meals.

Plus, when you whip up this comforting dish, you're not just cooking; you're creating an experience. So, whether you're pairing it with grilled chicken or enjoying it with Turkey Bacon at brunch, Honey Butter Skillet Corn is sure to steal the spotlight. Ready to bring some sweetness to your table? Let's get started!

Ingredients for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Essential ingredients for a delightful dish

To create your delicious honey butter skillet corn, you'll need just a few simple, yet rich ingredients that come together beautifully. Here's what you'll need:

2 tablespoons butter (I recommend using salted for an extra flavor kick)
2 tablespoons honey (just the right sweetness)
1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn (my favorite is gold n' white corn, but any variety works well)
2 ounces cream cheese (cut into chunks for creaminess)
¼ teaspoon salt (to enhance all those flavors)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (for a subtle hint of warmth)

These ingredients are not only easy to find, but they also combine effortlessly to create a side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Optional ingredient variations

Feel free to get a little creative! You can add ingredients like chopped chives for a fresh twist or even a sprinkle of cheese for an indulgent touch. For a bit of spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or even a splash of lime juice for brightness. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize your honey butter skillet corn to suit your taste! If you’re curious about other ways to elevate your corn dish, check out more tips on The Spruce Eats for fresh ideas.

Preparing Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Creating the perfect Honey Butter Skillet Corn dish is easier than you might think! This delightful side dish combines the sweetness of honey and butter with the savory flavor of corn, resulting in a crowd-pleaser that complements almost any meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the steps!

Gather your ingredients

Before you start cooking, it's essential to gather all your ingredients ahead of time. Here's what you'll need for this honey butter skillet corn recipe:

2 tablespoons of butter (I suggest using salted for added flavor)
2 tablespoons of honey
1 bag (16 oz) of frozen corn
2 ounces of cream cheese, cut into chunks (this will add creaminess)
¼ teaspoon of salt
¼ teaspoon of black pepper

Having everything ready at your fingertips not only streamlines the cooking process but can make it a lot more enjoyable. Don’t forget to set up your cooking area to make it efficient!

Melt the butter and honey

In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, combine the butter and honey. As the butter melts, it creates a wonderful aromatic base for the dish. Stir the mixture gently to ensure they blend well. The goal here is to create a sweet, buttery sauce that will coat the corn beautifully. It’s hard to beat that rich scent wafting through your kitchen. Can you smell it yet?

Cook the frozen corn

Once your butter and honey mixture is ready, it's time to add the frozen corn into the skillet. Gently stir it into the melted butter and honey mixture, ensuring every kernel is coated. Cook it for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You'll want the corn to be heated through and tender. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.

If you’d like more tips on cooking frozen corn, check out this expert guide on how to prepare it perfectly!

Add cream cheese and seasonings

Next up is the fun part—incorporating the cream cheese and seasonings! Add the chunks of cream cheese along with the salt and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes. The cream cheese will melt and mingle with the other flavors, yielding a rich, creamy consistency. This is where your humble corn transforms into a restaurant-worthy side dish.

Serve and savor your delicious creation

Once everything is perfectly mixed and warmed through, it's time to serve your honey butter skillet corn. Scoop it into a serving dish, and get ready to dig in! This dish is best served hot, but it also keeps well as leftovers. Just cover it in a container and pop it into the fridge for another day of tasty enjoyment.

Now, go ahead and enjoy this delicious creation! It’s a wonderful addition to any meal, and I can guarantee it will become a family favorite in no time!

Variations on Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Honey Butter Rainbow Corn with Veggies

Looking to brighten up your honey butter skillet corn? Try adding colorful, fresh veggies! Bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes not only enhance the dish's visual appeal but also pack it with nutrients. Sauté chopped vegetables alongside the corn for a delightful, crisp bite and a burst of flavors. This version is not just tasty but also a feast for the eyes!

Savory Honey Butter Skillet Corn with Spices

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more robust, consider infusing your honey butter skillet corn with savory spices. A sprinkle of smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a dash of cumin can elevate the dish to new heights. These spices add depth and complexity, creating a cozy side that pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to a fresh garden salad.

For more inspiration, check out these cooking blogs to explore the endless variations you can create!

Cooking notes for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Why you should use frozen corn

When it comes to making honey butter skillet corn, frozen corn is an absolute game changer. Not only is it convenient, but it also locks in flavor and sweetness at peak freshness. Frozen corn can be just as delicious as fresh corn, and it's often picked and frozen at the height of its season. This means you can enjoy summer sweetness any time of the year without breaking the bank. Plus, using frozen corn saves on prep time—simply toss it directly into the skillet, and you're good to go!

Best cookware for your skillet dish

For an exceptional honey butter skillet corn experience, a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal. These types of cookware distribute heat evenly, allowing for perfectly sautéed corn that caramelizes beautifully. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a nonstick frying pan will work well too, ensuring that your honey butter mixture doesn’t stick. Just make sure your skillet is large enough to accommodate all that delicious corn! When cooking, consider using utensils like wooden spoons or silicone spatulas to prevent scratching your pan.

For extra tips on cookware options, check out this guide on choosing the right skillet!

Serving suggestions for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Pairing with proteins for a complete meal

To create a well-rounded dining experience, consider serving your honey butter skillet corn alongside some tasty proteins. Grilled chicken breast or turkey bacon adds a savory touch, while beef steaks complement the sweet flavors beautifully. If you're in the mood for something different, chicken ham can also be an excellent choice. The sweetness of the corn balances perfectly with the savory notes of these proteins, making every bite delightful and satisfying.

Creative serving ideas to impress your guests

When it comes to serving your honey butter skillet corn, presentation is key! Try layering it in a clear glass bowl for a pop of color, or serve it in individual ramekins for a more intimate gathering. For an upscale twist, garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to elevate the dish. You could also sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top for added flavor and texture. These small touches will surely impress your guests and make your meal feel special! For additional inspiration, check out these entertaining tips.

Time Details for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Preparation Time
Getting started with this delicious recipe takes just about 5 minutes. It’s a breeze to gather the ingredients and get everything set up!

Cooking Time
Once you're in the kitchen, you'll need an additional 10-13 minutes to whip up this tasty side dish. That’s all it takes to turn frozen corn into a warm, honey-infused delight.

Total Time
In less than 20 minutes, you can indulge in this delightful honey butter skillet corn. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings! If you want to learn more about preparing easy side dishes, check out resources like Food Network for inspiration.

This detailed time section is designed to fit seamlessly into your recipe article, guiding readers through their cooking journey!

Nutritional Information for Honey Butter Skillet Corn

When it comes to enjoying a delicious side dish like honey butter skillet corn, it’s always helpful to know what you’re putting into your body. Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional highlights per serving:

Calories

With just 161 calories per serving, this dish offers a sweet and buttery flavor without overwhelming your daily intake.

Carbohydrates

You'll be indulging in 24 grams of carbohydrates. This makes it a satisfying option for your meals, providing the necessary energy for your day-to-day activities.

Protein

While it’s not a primary source, the dish contains 3 grams of protein, complementing the delightful sweetness of the corn and cream cheese.

If you’re looking to explore more about nutrition, consider visiting resources like the USDA FoodData Central for deeper insights into various food components. Balancing delicious recipes with nutritional information ensures you can enjoy every bite without compromising your health goals!

FAQs about Honey Butter Skillet Corn

How do I store leftovers?
Leftover honey butter skillet corn can be safely stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or a little extra butter to keep it moist. Trust me, it’s just as tasty the second time around!

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn will give your dish a vibrant flavor and texture. If you decide to use fresh corn, just make sure to cut the kernels off about 4-5 ears. You may want to briefly blanch the corn before adding it to the skillet for an even sweeter taste.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this recipe?
Pair your honey butter skillet corn with a refreshing mixed green salad, some grilled chicken, or even turkey bacon strips for a deliciously balanced meal. To explore more side dish ideas, check out this guideline on complementary flavors.

These tips will not only enhance your meal but ensure you enjoy every bite of this delightful corn dish!

Conclusion on Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Enjoy your homemade side dish for every occasion!

In conclusion, honey butter skillet corn elevates any meal with its sweet, buttery goodness. Its simplicity and flavor make it perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even as a tasty snack. So why not whip up this delightful dish today? Your taste buds will thank you!