If you’re searching for the fastest way to transform a regular veggie into a crave-worthy side dish, let me introduce you to the magic of Honey Butter Skillet Corn. In just fifteen minutes, this colorful concoction melds golden corn, creamy butter, luscious honey, and a hint of cream cheese into a sweet, savory, and ultra-creamy treat. Whether served at a family weeknight dinner or as a gleaming centerpiece at your next cookout, it’s guaranteed to be devoured by both kids and adults—the kind of cozy classic you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts of Honey Butter Skillet Corn is how a handful of simple ingredients can deliver delicious complexity. Each component has a role, from lending richness to intensifying sweetness!
- Frozen corn kernels: The star! Choose supersweet or regular, or even swap with fresh corn during peak season for extra pop.
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the corn to give a gorgeous, glossy finish and irresistible buttery flavor.
- Honey: Adds a natural sweetness that complements the corn, balancing out the creamy and savory notes.
- Cream cheese: The secret ingredient for luscious texture; it melts into the corn, making every bite rich and smooth.
- Salt: Enhances the sweet, subtle flavors and keeps the dish from tasting flat.
- Black pepper: Lends a gentle warmth and tiny burst of heat, perfect next to all that buttery sweetness.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by setting a large skillet over medium heat and add your unsalted butter. Let it melt slowly, swirling the pan occasionally so the butter coats the entire bottom. This step infuses the base of the dish with delicious, golden richness—don’t rush it!
Step 2: Add the Corn
Pour the frozen corn kernels straight into the skillet with your melted butter. Stir occasionally as they sizzle and soften, and let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re warmed through and starting to glisten.
Step 3: Stir in Honey and Cream Cheese
Now comes the moment when Honey Butter Skillet Corn becomes entirely irresistible. Drizzle in the honey and add dollops of cream cheese, then scatter in your salt and black pepper. Stir gently; the cream cheese will melt to envelop every sweet kernel.
Step 4: Simmer and Finish
Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring until the cream cheese is thoroughly melted and you have a creamy, dreamy coating on every spoonful. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—go ahead and sneak a bite, just to be sure!
Step 5: Serve Warm
As soon as the Honey Butter Skillet Corn is perfectly creamy, remove it from the heat and transfer to your favorite bowl or platter. Be sure to serve immediately for that soft, comforting, straight-from-the-skillet bliss.
How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley adds a burst of color and a subtle herbal brightness on top of the warm, golden corn. For a little extra twinkle, a light dusting of smoked paprika or a ring of cracked black pepper looks and tastes beautiful.
Side Dishes
This dish was simply made to pair with sizzling grilled meats, tangy barbecue, or any comfort food from fried chicken to roast turkey. It’s also a dream alongside mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or hearty vegetarian mains thanks to that savory-sweet backbone.
Creative Ways to Present
Try piling Honey Butter Skillet Corn onto baked sweet potatoes, spooning it inside warm tortillas for a twist on street corn, or scattering it over a crisp green salad. It also makes a brilliant, unexpected topping for cornbread or as a hearty addition to creamed soups.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making your lunch or next dinner even better.
Freezing
For longer storage, let the corn cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, and be sure to give it a good stir once reheated to restore its creaminess.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or dollop of butter if needed to revive that silky texture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring often until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn cut straight from the cob will make the flavors even brighter and the texture extra crisp. Just reduce your cooking time by a minute or two, as fresh kernels cook fast.
Is Honey Butter Skillet Corn gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful side dish option for those with gluten sensitivities or wheat allergies—just double-check your cream cheese if you need to be extra cautious.
What kind of honey works best in this recipe?
A mild clover or wildflower honey melts beautifully into the butter, but feel free to explore with richer or darker honeys for a bolder flavor profile. Choose what you enjoy most!
Can I make Honey Butter Skillet Corn dairy-free?
You can! Substitute plant-based butter and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. The result will still be creamy, smooth, and totally delicious.
How do I keep the corn from getting too watery?
If you notice excess liquid, just cook the corn a minute or two longer, letting some of the moisture evaporate before stirring in the cream cheese. This keeps the end result wonderfully rich and never soupy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re new to Honey Butter Skillet Corn, prepare to be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create something so spectacularly delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall for its sweet-savory creaminess just like I did—don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular at your family table!
Print
Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the creamy sweetness of Honey Butter Skillet Corn, a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. This quick and easy recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with rich honey, butter, and cream cheese for a decadent twist.
Ingredients
Corn:
- 4 cups frozen corn kernels
Seasonings:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Cook Corn: Add the frozen corn and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in honey, cream cheese, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until cream cheese is melted.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use fresh corn kernels instead of frozen, adjusting honey to taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg