Trust me when I say this is soooo good! This simple yet flavorful side dish elevates corn to a whole new level. With the richness of butter, the subtle sweetness of honey, and the kick of jalapeños, this recipe is the perfect companion for any meal or cookout. The honey doesn’t make it sweet—it enhances the natural sweetness of the corn while the jalapeños add a mild, delicious heat.
Ingredients
- 4–6 ears of fresh corn on the cob (or 4 cups frozen/canned corn kernels)
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup milk (or 1/2 cup half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust to taste for spice level)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Boil the Water
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat .
Step 2: Make the Flavor Base
- Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter , honey , and milk (or half-and-half) to the pot. Stir gently until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Add the Corn and Jalapeños
- Carefully add the corn to the pot. If using fresh corn on the cob, leave the husks on for a softer texture or remove them for direct contact with the buttery mixture. If using frozen or canned corn, simply pour it into the pot.
- Add the sliced jalapeños to the pot. Don’t worry—the honey-butter mixture balances out the heat, making it flavorful without being overwhelming.
Step 4: Simmer the Corn
- Reduce the heat to low and let the corn simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally. If you prefer a more infused flavor, turn off the heat after 5 minutes and let the corn sit covered for an additional 5–10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the corn to a serving platter. Spoon some of the jalapeño-infused butter mixture over the top for extra flavor.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired, though the buttery base is often flavorful enough on its own.
- Serve hot as a side dish at your next cookout, family dinner, or casual meal.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Honey Jalapeño Buttered Corn is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The honey brings out the natural sweetness of the corn, while the jalapeños add a subtle kick that complements the dish without overpowering it. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the spice level : Remove the jalapeño seeds and membranes for milder heat, or add extra jalapeños for more spice.
- Use fresh corn : Fresh corn on the cob provides the best texture and flavor, but frozen or canned corn works well in a pinch.
- Make it ahead : Prepare the butter-honey mixture in advance and reheat it before adding the corn.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled meats like steak, chicken, or ribs for a complete cookout spread.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve alongside other summer sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or potato salad.
Enjoy this Honey Jalapeño Buttered Corn —a creamy, flavorful, and unforgettable side dish that everyone will rave about!