If you’re searching for a comforting, sweet, and buttery side that pairs beautifully with just about any Southern feast, the Southern Skillet Corn Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish takes simple corn kernels and transforms them into a luscious, creamy delight with a perfect balance of sweetness and seasoning. It’s that kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on your plate and never fails to bring smiles around the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore Southern classics, this skillet corn will quickly become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each adds its own magic, from the sweetness of the corn and sugar to the richness of butter, making this dish truly shine in your skillet.
- 3 cups corn kernels: Fresh from the cob is ideal for sweetness, but frozen works just fine when fresh isn’t available.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances natural flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ¼ tsp pepper: Adds a subtle kick to keep the dish lively.
- 1 Tbsp sugar: Brings out the corn’s natural sweetness for that authentic Southern touch.
- ¼ cup butter: The key to richness and a velvety texture you’ll adore.
- ½ cup water: Helps steam the corn, keeping it juicy and tender.
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the corn mixture to creamy perfection.
- ¼ cup milk: Adds creaminess and smoothness for the perfect finish.
How to Make Southern Skillet Corn Recipe
Step 1: Simmer the Corn Mixture
Start by combining the corn, salt, pepper, sugar, butter, and water in a 10-inch skillet. Once everything is nestled together, cover the skillet and let it simmer gently over medium heat for about 15 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully and to prevent sticking. This step lets the corn soften and soak up the buttery sweetness, creating the foundation for that signature Southern charm.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Flour Mixture
While the corn is simmering away, mix the all-purpose flour and milk until smooth. This simple blend is the secret that thickens the dish, turning the renowned Southern Skillet Corn Recipe from just cooked corn into a luscious, creamy side. You want it completely smooth without lumps so that it integrates flawlessly in the next step.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Now stir the creamy flour and milk mixture into the skillet with your corn. Keep the heat on medium and cook for an additional five minutes, stirring constantly. This ensures the flour mixture thickens evenly and the dish achieves that irresistible creamy texture without lumps. In no time, you’ll be rewarded with a piping hot, golden skillet of Southern comfort.
How to Serve Southern Skillet Corn Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and a little herbal brightness without overpowering the dish. For a bit of extra indulgence, a small pat of butter melting on top just before serving takes this Southern Skillet Corn Recipe to a whole new level of yum.
Side Dishes
This skillet corn makes an ideal companion to main courses like fried chicken, barbecued ribs, or roasted pork. Its sweetness and creamy texture perfectly complement the savory and smoky flavors that are hallmarks of Southern cooking. You can’t go wrong pairing it with mashed potatoes and a crisp green bean salad too.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or add a festive touch, serve Southern Skillet Corn Recipe in a warm cast-iron skillet right at the table. Another fun idea is topping it with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or a handful of sharp shredded cheddar to introduce textures and extra layers of flavor. It’s an easy way to customize and elevate this humble dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Southern Skillet Corn Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors mellow and deepen, making your next meal just as enjoyable as the first.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, keep in mind the creamy texture might change slightly upon thawing. If you decide to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for best taste and quality.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its creamy consistency. Adding a splash of milk can help bring back some of the original creaminess lost during storage or freezing.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen for the Southern Skillet Corn Recipe?
Yes, canned corn can be used in a pinch, but the texture and sweetness won’t be as vibrant as fresh or frozen corn. Rinse canned corn to reduce excess sodium for best results.
Is this Southern Skillet Corn Recipe spicy?
No, the pepper in the recipe offers just a hint of warmth, keeping this dish mild and approachable for all ages and palates.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk to make a creamy, dairy-free version that still honors the spirit of this Southern favorite.
How do I keep the Southern Skillet Corn Recipe from becoming watery?
Be sure to simmer uncovered for the final cooking steps if you find it too watery, and the flour-milk mixture will help thicken it nicely.
What is the best skillet to use for this recipe?
A 10-inch cast iron skillet works beautifully as it holds heat evenly and adds an authentic touch, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will do just fine.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Southern Skillet Corn Recipe that makes it a timeless addition to any home-cooked meal. It’s simple, satisfying, and brimming with flavor that feels both nostalgic and fresh. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find it’s the sort of dish you’ll want to come back to again and again, sharing a little bit of Southern sunshine with every spoonful.
Print
Southern Skillet Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
This Southern Skillet Corn recipe is a comforting and flavorful side dish made with fresh or frozen corn kernels simmered with butter, sugar, and seasonings, then thickened with a creamy milk and flour mixture. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any Southern-inspired meal, offering a slightly sweet and buttery taste with a rich, velvety texture.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 cups corn kernels, cut fresh from cob (can use frozen)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- ¼ cup butter
- ½ cup water
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup milk
Instructions
- Simmer Corn Mixture: Combine corn, salt, pepper, sugar, butter, and water in a 10-inch skillet. Cover and simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Thickening Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with the milk, whisking until the mixture is completely smooth without lumps.
- Thicken and Finish Cooking: Stir the milk and flour mixture into the simmering corn. Continue to cook for an additional five minutes on medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh corn cut from the cob, but frozen corn works well as a convenient alternative.
- Adjust sugar according to sweetness of your corn or personal taste.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent burning and sticking.
- This dish can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
