Buttered Corn
Sweet, tender corn kernels tossed in rich, melted butter and seasoned simply with salt and pepper. A classic, crowd-pleasing American side dish that comes together in minutes and pairs perfectly with almost any meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 7 minutes total.
- 1
Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat
- a.Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely, about 1-2 minutes. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom.
- 2
Add the thawed corn kernels to the hot skillet
- a.Stir to coat the corn evenly with the melted butter. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is bright yellow, tender, and heated through.
- 3
Remove the skillet from the heat
- a.Season the corn with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 4
If using, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the corn
- a.Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately while warm.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer, nuttier flavor, allow the butter to brown slightly in the pan before adding the corn. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.
- 2Ensure the frozen corn is fully thawed and drained of any excess water to prevent a soggy result.
- 3Avoid overcooking the corn, as it can become tough and lose its natural sweetness. It only needs to be heated through.
- 4Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheesy Corn
Stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese at the end until just melted.
Spicy CornSpicy Corn
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a finely diced jalapeño along with the corn for a spicy kick.
Herbaceous CornHerbaceous Corn
Instead of parsley, try other fresh herbs like chopped chives, dill, or basil for a different flavor profile.
Smoky CornSmoky Corn
Add 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the butter as it melts for a delicious smoky flavor.
Zesty CornZesty Corn
Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a tablespoon of chopped cilantro instead of parsley for a Tex-Mex twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Fiber
Corn is a whole grain and a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health, helping to promote regularity and a healthy gut.
Rich in Antioxidants
Sweet corn contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to be beneficial for eye health and may help protect against age-related macular degeneration.
Provides Essential Nutrients
Corn provides several essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are vital for energy production and bone health.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this Buttered Corn recipe contains approximately 175-185 calories, depending on the exact amount of butter used.