Hot Honey Fiesta Corn

This Hot Honey Skillet Corn recipe is an easy and flavorful side dish made with sweet corn, peppers, onions, and spicy hot honey. It’s a quick corn recipe that’s ready in under 20 minutes and pairs perfectly with roasted turkey or chicken.

This Hot Honey Fiesta Corn is one of those recipes you make once and immediately wonder where it’s been all your life. It starts with a bag of frozen corn — nothing fancy — and somehow ends up tasting like something you ordered at a trendy street-food spot. The butter caramelizes the corn, the peppers bring the color and crunch, and that final drizzle of hot honey ties everything together in the most delicious way.

It’s sweet, spicy, buttery, and ridiculously addictive — the kind of side dish people end up eating straight from the pan. I may know this from experience. Every time I make it, my husband is sneaking spoonfuls straight from the pan!

If you have a bag of frozen corn sitting in the back of your freezer doing nothing… this recipe is how you bring it back to life. This one skillet, zero fuss, huge flavor corn recipe will definitely be a hit!

Every year on our Thanksgiving table, there is some type of corn dish. We have been using the same Gulliver’s Creamed Corn Recipe for as long as I can remember; it’s the best!  

Ingredients for this Hot Honey Butter Corn:

This recipe only calls for 6 ingredients (plus seasonings) and is the easiest side dish to make. I love to pair this side with grilled chicken or smoked turkey breast.

• Butter
• Red Onion
• Mini Sweet Peppers
• Jalapeño
• Frozen Corn
• Salt & Pepper
• Hot Honey (you can also substitute regular honey for hot honey)

How to make Fiesta Corn:

1. MELT BUTTER. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. ADD VEGGIES. Add red onion, sweet peppers, and jalapeño. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. ADD CORN. Stir in the frozen corn and cook another 6–8 minutes until heated through and lightly golden.
4. ADD SEASONINGS. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. ADD HOT HONEY. Remove from heat and drizzle generously with hot honey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s):

Can I use canned corn instead of frozen corn?

Yes, totally — just drain it really well. I suggest using frozen corn but canned corn can be used a well. Canned corn won’t sear as quickly as frozen corn, so pat it dry with a towel and sauté it on medium-high heat to get a little color before adding the peppers and onions.

Can I use fresh corn?

Absolutely. Fresh corn off the cob is amazing here. Cut off the kernels and sauté the same way, but cook 1–2 minutes longer since fresh kernels are firmer.

What kind of hot honey works best?

Any brand you like — Mike’s, Torchbearer, Trader Joe’s, or homemade. If your hot honey is very spicy, start with less and taste as you go. You can also warm it slightly before drizzling so it blends in easier. If you don’t have hot honey, you can add a little jalapeno for a touch of spice.

How spicy is this fiesta corn?

It’s as spicy as your hot honey. The corn, butter, and sautéed veggies soften the heat, so even spicy hot honey ends up mellowed. For a kid-friendly version, use just a light drizzle or mix half hot honey and half regular honey.

Can I add cheese?

One hundred percent yes. The most popular additions are:
• Cotija
• Queso fresco
• Pepper Jack
• Shredded cheddar
Fold it in at the end or sprinkle on top before serving.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it tastes best freshly sautéed. If you need to prep ahead, chop the peppers and onions early and store them in refrigerator. Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet and add a fresh drizzle of hot honey to wake it back up.

More Side Dish Recipes:

Creamy Cauliflower Gratin

Southwest Creamed Corn

Brown Sugar Bacon Green Beans

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

What to serve Fiesta Corn with:

Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Mexican Cheesy Taco Beef and Rice Skillet

The Best Chicken Marinade Recipe

Mexican Shredded Beef Tacos