Description
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delightful side dish combining the sweetness of honey and fresh corn with savory butter and aromatic herbs. Perfectly caramelized and infused with a hint of smoked paprika, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to complement any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Corn
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6-8 ears of corn) or 2 cans of corn, drained
Honey Butter Mixture
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
Herbs and Oils
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, shuck the corn by removing the husks and silk. Stand each ear upright in a bowl and carefully slice down the sides to remove the kernels. If using canned corn, simply drain it and set aside.
- Make the Honey Butter Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it becomes bubbly. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the honey until fully combined. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using, mixing thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Cook the Corn: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook fresh corn for about 5-7 minutes or canned corn for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn is slightly caramelized and flavorful.
- Combine Corn and Honey Butter: Reduce the heat to low, then pour the honey butter mixture evenly over the corn, stirring well to coat all kernels. Add fresh thyme (or dried thyme), and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally to infuse the herb flavors.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the honey butter corn to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm as a delicious and sweet-savory side dish.
Notes
- For a smoky twist, do not skip the smoked paprika, but feel free to omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Fresh corn offers the best texture and sweetness, but canned corn is a convenient substitute.
- You can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme if fresh herbs are unavailable.
- Serve this dish immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust the amount of honey to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet side.
