Need a fast, feel-good side dish? This Honey Butter Skillet Corn is creamy, sweet, and buttery in all the right ways. It’s a 15-minute wonder that takes simple pantry staples and turns them into something irresistible.

Skillet corn is a timeless American side dish, but adding honey and butter turns it into a sweet-savory dream that’s perfect for everything from summer BBQs to holiday dinners. Inspired by Southern cooking and ready in a flash, this version gets a creamy upgrade with a touch of cream cheese—think comfort food with just the right amount of flair.
Looking for more summer-friendly recipes? Try our Best Creamy Broccoli Bacon, Creamy Tuscan Salmon with Sundried Tomatoes, or Spanakopita with Puff Pastry—they all pair beautifully with this easy corn dish!
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💖 Why This Recipe Works
- Sweet and Savory: The honey and butter combo is a match made in flavor heaven.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes. Total weeknight win.
- Versatile: Goes with everything—grilled meats, plant-based mains, or just a fork straight from the pan.
⭐ Star Ingredients
Here’s what really makes this skillet corn shine:
- Sweet Corn: Fresh or frozen—both work! I use frozen when I’m in a rush.
- Salted Butter: Adds depth and makes the corn extra caramelized and golden.
- Honey: Natural sweetness that takes it to the next level.
- Cream Cheese: Makes everything extra rich and dreamy.
For the complete list of ingredients with measurements and instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
📖 Substitutions & Variations
- No Cream Cheese? Try a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or cheddar on top.
- Garlic Twist: Sauté minced garlic with the butter for a bolder flavor.
- Zesty Finish: A squeeze of lime juice before serving brightens it beautifully.
- Fresh or Frozen Corn: Fresh has extra snap, but frozen is quick and reliable.
- Smoky Kick: Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder for heat and depth.
Looking for more summer-friendly recipes? Try our Avocado Salad, Lemon Orzo Asparagus Salad, or Charred Corn Salad With Tomatoes next!
🔪How To Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn?
- Step 1: In a large skillet, melt together the butter and honey.
- Step 2: Add the frozen corn in honey butter mixture, and stir over medium high heat for 6 to 8 minutes.
- Step 3: Add in the cream cheese and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, to allow the cream cheese to melt.
- Step 4: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Your honey butter skillet corn is now ready to serve.
💡 Hint: This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. It also reheats beautifully, so you can make it ahead for easy entertaining or leftovers.
👩🍳 Expert Tips
- Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: Fresh corn adds extra juiciness, but frozen is perfect for busy nights.
- Use White, Yellow, or Both: All varieties work—choose what you love.
- Want Garlic? Add it early with the butter.
- Lime Juice Pop: A little lime at the end brightens everything.
- Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese, and swap honey for maple syrup.
🕔 5-Minute Pantry Hack Version
In a serious rush? You can totally make this with canned corn and a microwave—no skillet needed!
- Drain 2 cans of corn and pat dry.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add 2 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoon honey, and half a block of cream cheese.
- Microwave for 1–2 minutes until melted, stir in corn, then heat another 2–3 minutes until hot and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
✨ It’s a game-changer for lazy nights, college dorms, or tiny kitchens!
💭 FAQs
Yes! Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.
While cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture, you can substitute it with a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the dish's consistency and flavor.
To make Honey Butter Skillet Corn dairy-free, use a plant-based butter alternative and either omit the cream cheese or use a dairy-free version. Be aware that the flavor and texture may differ from the original recipe.
Store any leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
💖 Serving Suggestions
Here’s what I love to serve with this honey butter skillet corn:
- Sliced Chicken: The sweet and savory skillet corn pairs perfectly with juicy grilled chicken breast for a balanced meal.
- Mexican Steak & Rice: The sweet corn balances spicy, savory flavors.
- Spicy Tofu Wraps: Totally delicious combo!
- Almond Milk Mashed Potatoes: Creamy + creamy = dreamy.
🍽 More Fantastic Skillet Recipes
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Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Ingredients
- 24 ounces Sweet Corn frozen
- ½ Butter Stick salted
- 2 tablespoon Honey
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt together the butter and honey.
- Add the frozen corn in honey butter mixture, and stir over medium-high heat for 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add in the cream cheese and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, to allow the cream cheese to melt.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Your honey butter skillet corn is now ready to serve.
Sweet, creamy, and totally dreamy—this corn dish is like a warm hug in a skillet! Perfectly balances savory and sweet for a side that's hard to resist.