Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Category: Food That Makes People Think You've Got Life Figured Out

Sweet kernels of corn simmer gently in a blend of melted butter, golden honey, and a touch of sour cream, all brought together in a single skillet. A sprinkle of cayenne gives warmth, while the honey enriches the creamy sauce with subtle sweetness. Whole kernel white and gold corn stay juicy as they absorb the flavors. Stirring ensures the sauce becomes silky and coats each kernel. Serve warm straight from the pan and garnish with a crack of black pepper for contrast. With a short prep and cook time, this dish makes for a flavorful, comforting addition to any table and keeps well for later enjoyment.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Tue, 05 Aug 2025 20:39:24 GMT
A wooden spoon in a bowl of corn. Save
A wooden spoon in a bowl of corn. | lilicooks.com

Nothing beats a skillet full of sweet and buttery corn that comes together in just minutes This honey butter skillet corn is pure comfort and always disappears fast at cookouts and family dinners

My first time making this was for a summer barbecue I ended up standing at the stove sneaking bites and now it is a must for every family gathering

Ingredients

  • Butter: adds essential creamy richness and ties everything together look for good quality unsalted butter for best flavor
  • Honey: provides natural sweetness go for local honey if you can it makes a difference
  • Sour cream: brings creaminess and a subtle tang use real full fat sour cream for best results
  • Salt: enhances all the flavors use flaky sea salt for a touch of luxury if available
  • Cayenne pepper: adds warmth and a little kick control the spice based on your preference
  • White and gold whole kernel corn: gives a fun mix of color and sweetness look for cans with crisp kernels or use peak season fresh corn sliced right off the cob
  • Black pepper: for finishing a crack of fresh black pepper takes it over the top and adds complexity

Step by Step Instructions

Start the Sauce:
Add the butter honey sour cream salt and cayenne pepper to a large skillet Set the skillet over medium high heat Stir constantly to help everything melt evenly
Cook Until Bubbly:
Continue stirring for about five minutes until the butter melts and the sauce begins to bubble around the edges This bubbling means everything is marrying together for a luscious sauce
Add the Corn:
Pour in the drained corn and stir to coat every kernel with the honey butter mixture Keep the heat at medium high so the corn heats all the way through
Finish and Serve:
Let the corn cook for three to five minutes stirring occasionally You want the corn hot but not mushy Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed Serve right away topped with a sprinkle of black pepper
A wooden spoon is scooping corn from a pan. Save
A wooden spoon is scooping corn from a pan. | lilicooks.com

You Must Know

Corn has always been my comfort food I love the way a simple ingredient turns into such a crowd favorite My kids look forward to scraping out the last bits from the skillet

Storage Tips

Leftover skillet corn keeps beautifully Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days For best results reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to restore creaminess or microwave in short bursts stirring each time

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have sour cream try swapping in plain Greek yogurt for a similar texture and a little extra tang You can use all yellow or all white corn if that is what is on hand Frozen corn works too just thaw and drain well before using If you prefer less sweetness reduce the honey or try maple syrup for a different vibe

A wooden spoon in a bowl of corn. Save
A wooden spoon in a bowl of corn. | lilicooks.com

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines as a fast side for barbecue chicken grilled steaks or even simple oven baked fish It makes a fun taco topping or can be folded into burritos and rice bowls Garnish with fresh herbs like chives parsley or cilantro for extra freshness

Cultural Context

Corn is a staple in many American kitchens and this sweet buttery version is inspired by Southern comfort food traditions Using both white and gold corn adds visual interest and a nod to farmers markets where fresh sweet corn is a summer highlight

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of corn works best for this dish?

Both canned white and gold whole kernel corn are ideal. You can also substitute with fresh or frozen if drained well.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness?

Absolutely. Add more or less cayenne pepper based on your preferred heat level, or omit for a milder taste.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep any remaining corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Is it possible to use different sweeteners?

Honey is preferred for the special flavor, but pure maple syrup can be a substitute for a unique twist.

→ What is the best garnish for serving?

Freshly ground black pepper adds a bold finish and helps balance the sweet and savory notes.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Tender corn in honey butter sauce, quick to prepare in one pan for a creamy, irresistible dish.

Preparation Time
5 min
Cooking Time
10 min
Overall Time
15 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Party & Snacks

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves

Dietary Options: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1/4 cup butter
02 3 tablespoons honey
03 3 tablespoons sour cream
04 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
06 2 cans (15.25 ounces each) white and gold whole kernel corn, drained
07 Black pepper for garnish

Steps

Step 01

Add the butter, honey, sour cream, salt, and cayenne pepper to a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring continuously, until the butter melts and the mixture becomes bubbly (about 5 minutes).

Step 02

Add the drained corn to the skillet and continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through.

Step 03

Serve the dish warm and garnish with freshly ground black pepper.

Tips

  1. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Required Tools

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (butter, sour cream)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 180
  • Fats: 10.6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20.4 g
  • Proteins: 2.1 g