Are you ready to elevate your side dish game? Honey Butter Skillet Corn is simple, sweet, and bursting with flavor! With just a few fresh ingredients, this recipe turns ordinary corn into a delicious treat. In this article, I’ll guide you step-by-step through making this easy dish, along with tips and fun variations to try. Let’s dive into the sweet and savory world of Honey Butter Skillet Corn!
Ingredients
Fresh Corn Kernels
You need 4 cups of fresh corn kernels. This is about 6-8 ears of corn. Fresh corn gives the best taste and texture. Shucking the corn and cutting off the kernels is easy. The sweet crunch of fresh corn makes this dish shine.
Unsalted Butter
You will need 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. This butter adds richness to the dish. It melts smoothly and helps the corn cook evenly. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level. This way, you can adjust the flavor to your liking.
Honey
For sweetness, use 1/4 cup of honey. Honey adds a lovely glaze to the corn. Its natural sweetness balances well with the salt. This ingredient makes the dish unique and special. Try to use pure honey for the best flavor.
Seasonings and Garnish
You will need a few seasonings:
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
These seasonings enhance the corn’s taste. The sea salt brings out the sweetness. Black pepper adds a bit of heat. Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor if you choose to use it.
For garnish, use 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley. This adds color and freshness to your dish. The parsley makes the dish look bright and inviting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Corn
First, you need fresh corn. Shuck about 6 to 8 ears of corn. Remove all the silk. Next, cut the kernels off the cob. This should give you about 4 cups of corn. Fresh corn adds great flavor.
Melting the Butter
Grab a large skillet and place it on the stove. Turn the heat to medium. Add 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Let it melt until it bubbles. This step is key for the rich flavor.
Cooking the Corn
Once the butter is melted, add the corn to the skillet. Stir it well so all the corn gets coated. Cook the corn for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally. You want it tender but still crisp.
Adding Honey and Seasoning
Now, drizzle 1/4 cup of honey over the corn. Then, add 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika if you like it smoky. Stir to mix everything together. This makes the corn sweet and savory.
Final Cooking Steps
Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes. Let the corn caramelize a bit while stirring gently. This adds a nice color and flavor. After it’s cooked through, taste it. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Transfer the corn to a serving dish. Top it with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley. This adds color and freshness. Enjoy your honey butter skillet corn warm. It’s a great side dish for any meal!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Corn
When you pick corn, fresh is best. Look for bright, green husks and plump kernels. The corn should feel firm and moist. Try to use corn that is in season. This ensures the best flavor and sweetness. If fresh corn is not available, you can use frozen corn too. Just make sure it’s high quality.
Adjusting Sweetness and Seasoning
Taste is a big part of cooking. You may want to change the sweetness. If you like it sweeter, add more honey. Start with a little and taste as you go. For salt, use sea salt for a great flavor. Black pepper adds a nice kick. If you want a smoky taste, add smoked paprika. Just a bit can enhance the dish.
Avoiding Overcooking
Cooking corn too long can ruin the texture. You want it to be tender but still crisp. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often. When you add honey, cook for another 3-5 minutes. Watch it closely. Remove the corn from heat when it looks lightly caramelized. This gives you the best flavor without soggy corn.
Variations
Spicy Honey Butter Skillet Corn
To spice things up, add chili powder or cayenne pepper. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and taste. This will give your dish a nice kick. The sweet honey balances the heat well. You can also mix in diced jalapeños for more texture and flavor.
Adding Cheese
For a creamy twist, sprinkle in cheese. Try crumbled feta or cotija for a tangy touch. You can also use shredded cheddar for a rich flavor. Add the cheese right before serving. This way, it melts into the warm corn. It creates a delicious, gooey dish that everyone will love.
Using Frozen Corn
If fresh corn is not available, frozen corn works great too. Just thaw and drain the corn before cooking. You can skip the shucking and cutting steps. The dish will still taste great. Cook the frozen corn for a few extra minutes. This ensures it heats through nicely.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
After you enjoy your Honey Butter Skillet Corn, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the corn fresh and tasty. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Your leftovers will last about three to four days. Remember to check for any changes in smell or color before eating.
Reheating Tips
When you want to enjoy the corn again, reheating is easy. You can use a skillet for the best results. Heat the skillet over medium heat and add a small bit of butter. Then, add the corn and stir gently. Cook until warmed through, about five minutes. You can also use the microwave. Place the corn in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat for one to two minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Freezing Honey Butter Skillet Corn
If you have too much corn, freezing is a great option. First, let the corn cool completely. Then, place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Your corn can last for up to six months in the freezer. To use it later, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn. It works well in this recipe. Frozen corn is picked at its peak ripeness, so it still has great flavor. Just thaw it before cooking. This will help it heat evenly. You can skip the step of cutting kernels off the cob, saving you time.
How long does Honey Butter Skillet Corn last in the fridge?
Honey Butter Skillet Corn lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of water to keep it moist.
What can I serve with Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
Honey Butter Skillet Corn pairs nicely with many dishes. Try it with grilled chicken or fish. It also goes well with burgers or BBQ ribs. For a light meal, serve it with a fresh salad. This sweet corn adds color and flavor to any plate.
This guide detailed how to make Honey Butter Skillet Corn. You learned about the key ingredients like fresh corn, butter, and honey. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking. Tips helped with choosing corn and avoiding overcooking. Variations like adding cheese or spice add fun. You can also store and reheat leftovers easily. Now, you have everything you need to enjoy a delicious dish. Dive in and try making it yourself!
