Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6-7 ears of corn, or 1-2 bags of frozen corn)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for a touch of smokiness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Corn:
- If using fresh corn, husk the ears and remove the silk. Stand each ear on its flat end and use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob. Measure out about 4 cups of kernels. If using frozen corn, thaw it according to package instructions, then drain well to remove excess moisture.
- Heat the Skillet:
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering.
- Cook the Corn:
- Add the corn kernels to the hot skillet. Spread them out evenly in the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until the corn starts to turn golden and slightly charred. If you like a bit more caramelization, let the corn sit without stirring for a minute or two at a time before stirring.
- Prepare the Honey Butter Mixture:
- While the corn is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the honey until well combined. Remove from heat.
- Combine and Season:
- When the corn is cooked to your liking, pour the honey butter mixture over the corn. Stir well to ensure all the corn is coated. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the honey butter corn to a serving dish. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. If desired, serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick.
Tips:
- Corn Variations: You can use this recipe with other types of corn, such as bi-color or sweet corn, depending on what’s available and your preference.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Spice It Up: If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the paprika.
- Additional Toppings: For extra texture, you might like to sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or finely chopped scallions on top before serving.
This honey butter skillet corn is a delightful side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, barbecues, or simply as a satisfying addition to any meal. Its blend of sweet honey and savory butter, combined with the natural sweetness of the corn, makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy and delicious. Enjoy!
