Get ready to transform your ordinary corn into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have everyone at the dinner table begging for seconds! This Hot Honey Butter Skillet Corn is not just a side dish; it's a flavor explosion that combines the sweetness of honey, the richness of butter, and a tantalizing kick of red pepper flakes. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want to elevate your meal with a simple yet sensational recipe that takes just 15 minutes to prepare.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. If using fresh corn, shuck the corn and cut the kernels off the cob to yield about 4 cups. If using frozen corn, measure out 4 cups and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely and start to bubble slightly.
- Add the corn to the skillet, stirring it into the melted butter. Cook the corn for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and starts to caramelize slightly.
- While the corn is cooking, in a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix well until the red pepper flakes are evenly distributed in the honey.
- Once the corn has cooked, reduce the heat to low and drizzle the honey mixture over the corn. Stir well to coat the corn evenly with the honey and red pepper flakes.
- Season the corn with salt to taste, adjusting according to your preference. Stir to combine all the flavors.
- Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the honey to warm and the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the hot honey butter skillet corn to a serving dish. Serve immediately, garnished with additional red pepper flakes or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Corn Selection Matters: Fresh corn will give the best flavor, but high-quality frozen corn works wonderfully too. If using fresh corn, choose ears that are bright, plump, and have tight, milky kernels.
- Butter Browning Technique: Let your butter melt and slightly bubble before adding corn. This creates a beautiful golden color and adds a nutty depth to the dish.
- Caramelization is Key: Don't rush the cooking process. Allow the corn to develop those delicious caramelized edges by stirring occasionally and letting it sit in the hot skillet.
- Honey and Spice Balance: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference. Start with less if you're sensitive to spice, and add more for a bolder kick.
- Serving Suggestions: This corn is versatile! Serve it alongside grilled meats, as a standalone side dish, or even as a topping for salads and tacos.
- Make-Ahead Tip: While best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and quickly cook just before serving to maintain optimal texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 195kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
