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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
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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
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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.