Skillet Corn

5 from 2 votes

This Garlic Butter Skillet Corn is a quick, flavorful side dish made with sweet corn sautéed in browned butter and fresh garlic. With just five simple ingredients and a cast iron skillet, it comes together in 15 minutes and adds a warm, savory touch to any meal.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free

Servings:

Calories: 53kcal

Author: Ned Adams

Equipment

1 12" Cast Iron Skillet

Ingredients

2 (15-ounce) cans whole kernel corn drained well
2 tablespoons salted butter
2 garlic cloves minced or grated
½ teaspoon salt or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Drain corn well and set aside. For best results, spread kernels on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and pat dry.
Mince or grate fresh garlic and set aside.
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt until it just starts to brown and smell nutty.
Add minced or grated garlic and cook about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
Stir in drained corn. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and lightly golden in spots. For more caramelization, cook an additional minute or two longer.
Season with salt and pepper. Stir well to coat.
Remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes

Drain the corn thoroughly. Excess liquid will steam the kernels instead of sautéing them, and you will not get those golden caramelized spots.

For jarred garlic, use about ½ teaspoon for each clove of garlic. Fresh garlic gives the recipe a brighter, stronger flavor.

Frozen corn works great. Thaw it first and drain off any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

Fresh corn from the cob is delicious when in season. You will need about 3 cups of kernels, which is roughly 4 to 5 ears.

Topping ideas: freshly grated parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley.

To keep warm for a party: transfer finished corn to a slow cooker on the warm setting for up to 2 hours. Add an extra tablespoon of butter to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally.

Nutrition