Best 15-Minute Creamy Skillet Corn

When you need a side dish that’s fast, comforting, and guaranteed to disappear, Best 15-Minute Creamy Skillet Corn is the answer. This recipe transforms simple corn kernels into a rich, buttery, and ultra-creamy dish using just one skillet and pantry-friendly ingredients. It’s proof that incredible flavor doesn’t have to take hours.

Creamy skillet corn is one of those timeless sides that works for everything — weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, backyard cookouts, and last-minute meals when you need something dependable. With sweet corn, butter, garlic, cream, and a touch of cheese, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in record time.

If you love easy recipes that feel indulgent without being complicated, this is one you’ll make again and again.


Why This Creamy Skillet Corn Is So Popular

Corn is naturally sweet, juicy, and comforting. When paired with butter and cream, it becomes irresistible. What sets this recipe apart is how quickly it comes together while still delivering bold flavor and silky texture.

In just 15 minutes, you get:

  • Tender corn with lightly caramelized edges
  • A creamy sauce that clings to every kernel
  • Rich, savory flavor balanced with natural sweetness

This dish is endlessly adaptable, forgiving, and universally loved — making it a staple side dish across seasons.


Perfect for Any Occasion

Best 15-Minute Creamy Skillet Corn works beautifully with:

  • Grilled chicken, steak, or pork
  • Holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas
  • BBQs and summer cookouts
  • Comfort-food dinners
  • Potlucks and family gatherings

It’s just as welcome on a busy Tuesday night as it is on a festive table.


Ingredients

Creamy Skillet Corn

  • Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
  • Unsalted butter
  • Garlic, minced
  • Heavy cream
  • Cream cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Optional fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Melt the Butter
    Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt until foamy.
  2. Sauté the Garlic
    Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  3. Cook the Corn
    Add corn kernels to the skillet. Stir and cook for 4–5 minutes until heated through and lightly golden in spots.
  4. Add Creaminess
    Lower heat slightly. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
  5. Season and Finish
    Add salt, black pepper, and parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens.
  6. Serve Hot
    Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.

Fresh, Frozen, or Canned Corn?

This recipe works with all three:

  • Fresh corn – Best flavor and texture when in season
  • Frozen corn – Convenient and consistent year-round
  • Canned corn – Fastest option; drain well for best results

No matter which you choose, the creamy sauce elevates it beautifully.


Tips for the Creamiest Corn

  • Use full-fat cream for best texture
  • Let cream cheese soften before adding
  • Don’t rush the simmer — let sauce thicken naturally
  • Taste and season at the end

A few extra minutes makes a big difference in richness.


Delicious Variations

Spicy Creamy Corn

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Cheesy Skillet Corn

Use sharp cheddar or smoked gouda instead of parmesan.

Southern-Style Cream Corn

Add a pinch of sugar and a splash of milk.

Herb Butter Corn

Finish with thyme, basil, or rosemary.


Make-Ahead & Storage

  • Best served fresh
  • Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream

Avoid high heat when reheating to keep sauce smooth.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in just 15 minutes
  • One skillet, minimal cleanup
  • Rich, comforting flavor
  • Crowd-pleasing side dish
  • Works with nearly any main course

Once you try Best 15-Minute Creamy Skillet Corn, it’ll become your go-to corn recipe for busy nights and special meals alike.

Best 15-Minute Creamy Skillet Corn

Quick and buttery creamy corn made in one skillet in just 15 minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups corn kernels
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 2 oz cream cheese softened
  • 0.25 cup parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté garlic briefly until fragrant.
  3. Add corn and cook until heated and lightly golden.
  4. Stir in cream and cream cheese until smooth.
  5. Season, add parmesan, and serve hot.

Notes

Adjust seasoning and cheese to taste.