Golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor! This Southern Cast Iron Corn is the perfect side dish—charred to perfection and packed with buttery goodness. Once you try it, you’ll never want corn any other way!

Golden, charred corn cooked in a cast iron skillet with butter and seasonings.
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If you love easy corn recipes, try my recipe for Blackstone Corn Fritters, or Chili’s Roasted Street Corn.

And if you love easy cast iron recipes, try my recipe for Cast Iron Caramelized Peppers & Onions.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

  • Perfectly charred for smoky, deep flavor.
  • Buttery, crispy, and absolutely delicious.
  • Quick and easy one-pan side dish.
  • Pairs well with any meal.
  • Simple ingredients, big flavor payoff.

Ingredients

Ingredients needed for Cast Iron Corn on kitchen table.
  • Canned Corn: You can also use fresh corn, remember to drain well
  • Butter: Use salted butter for added flavor.
  • Honey: The secret ingredient, adds so much flavor!
  • Cream Cheese: For added flavor and creaminess!
  • Seasonings: Salt and Black Pepper.

How To Make Cast Iron Corn

Butter and honey melting together in a large skillet over medium-low heat.

Step One: In a large skillet, melt the butter and honey together over medium-low heat.

Step Two: Add the frozen corn and stir frequently, cooking over medium-high heat for 6 to 8 minutes.

Stirring cream cheese in a pan until fully melted and seasoned with salt and pepper.

Step Three: Stir in the cream cheese and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often to help the cream cheese melt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cast iron skillet with creamy corn, butter, honey, and cream cheese, cooked to perfection.

Expert Tips

  • Use Fresh Corn: Fresh, in-season corn will give you the best flavor and texture. If using frozen corn, thaw it beforehand to avoid extra moisture.
  • Preheat the Cast Iron: Make sure the cast iron skillet is well-heated before adding the corn. This helps to achieve that delicious, slightly crispy bottom.
  • Add Butter Generously: Butter adds richness and flavor. You can also use olive oil or a mix of both for a different taste.
  • Season Well: Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you like—garlic powder, paprika, or fresh cilantro add a nice touch.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure there’s enough space in the skillet for the corn to sear properly. If you’re making a large batch, cook in batches.
  • Finish with Fresh Lime: A squeeze of lime at the end of cooking brightens up the flavors.
  • Add Cheese: A sprinkle of cotija or Parmesan cheese after cooking will give it a creamy, tangy flavor.
Golden cast iron corn in a skillet, perfectly seared and seasoned with butter and spices.

Recipe Notes

  • Variations: For extra flavor, consider adding diced jalapeños for heat or onions for a sweet balance.
  • Make It Smoky: If you want a smoky flavor, consider grilling the corn first before adding it to the skillet.
  • Storage: Leftover cast iron corn can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
  • Serving Ideas: Serve this as a side with grilled meats, tacos, or on top of a salad for extra texture.

Cast Iron Corn Recipe Faqs

What type of corn is best for Cast Iron Corn? Fresh corn on the cob is often preferred for this recipe as it gives the best flavor and texture. You can also use frozen corn if fresh isn’t available.

Can I use canned corn? Yes, canned corn can be used, but it’s best to drain and rinse it before using it in the recipe to avoid excess liquid. The texture will be a little softer compared to fresh or frozen corn.

How do I get the corn crispy in the cast iron skillet? To achieve a crispy texture, make sure the cast iron skillet is preheated, and use a little oil or butter to sear the corn. Allow it to sit undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring to develop a crispy crust.

Corn on the cob being cooked in a hot cast iron skillet, ready to be served.

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Golden, charred corn cooked in a cast iron skillet with butter and seasonings.

Cast Iron Corn

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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Try our easy Cast Iron Corn recipe for a flavorful, crispy side dish made with fresh corn and savory seasonings. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or BBQ dishes!
YouTube video

Ingredients 

  • 24 ounces sweet corn , or 5 cups frozen
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon salt, to taste

Instructions

  • In a large skillet, melt the butter and honey together over medium-low heat.
  • Add the frozen corn and stir frequently, cooking over medium-high heat for 6 to 8 minutes.
  • Stir in the cream cheese and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often to help the cream cheese melt.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Equipment

  • Cast Iron Skillet
  • Tongs

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 189kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 248mgPotassium: 254mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 525IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 18mgIron: 0.5mg

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