3-Ingredient Blackened Corn
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Blackened corn can be made in 15 minutes using a skillet instead of a grill. This easy, three-ingredient side dish will become your go-to! It’s perfect for BBQs, Picnics and summer get togethers. Serve it as a side or with burrito bowls, tacos, and quesadillas.
Prep Time
5 Minutes
Total Time
15 Minutes
Servings
4 sides
Diet
Vegan, GF
Blackened corn is an easy side dish to make on your stovetop. Melt butter in a skillet, add blackened seasonings and corn kernels, then sauté until charred. It doesn’t get much easier than that! I love to take this recipe to BBQs and summer family get togethers.
But this recipe is so much more then a side dish. It is a great way to spice up your corn for burrito bowls, tacos and as a homemade salsa. I like it as a baked potato topping, tossed in with lemon pasta and as a homemade pizza topping.
More Recipes Made with Corn
Ingredients and Equipment Notes
Frozen Sweet Corn Kernels
When I tested this recipe, I found that frozen corn works best. You can use canned as well. I do not recommend corn on the cob is not a good choice for this recipe.
Blackened Seasoning
You can use the blackened seasoning of your choice. I use a premade mix. You can also make your own blackened seasoning. I have included a homemade mix in the recipe card for you.
Butter
You can use vegan, plant-based or traditional dairy butter.
Skillet
A cast iron skillet works best with this recipe. If you do not have one, you can use a skillet in it’s place.
How to Achieve the Perfect Char
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Spread the corn kernels in an even layer and avoid overcrowding the skillet. If the corn is overcrowded it will steam and become soft.
- Dry the Corn Thoroughly: If you’re using frozen corn, thaw and dry it thoroughly with paper towels before adding it to the skillet. Excess moisture can cause steaming instead of charing.

Perfect Pairings
Frequently Asked Questions
Try One Of My Other Corn Recipes
If you tried this blackened corn recipe or any other recipe on my blog leave a star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below.
3-Ingredient Blackened Corn
Equipment
- 1 cast iron skillet or skillet
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter/plant-based butter
- 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning
- 4 cups frozen corn kernals
Instructions
Step One: Prep
- Preheat a skillet or cast iron skillet over medium heat.
- Melt the butter or plant-based butter in the hot skillet.
- Sprinkle the blackened seasoning over the melted butter and stir. Let the spices simmer for one minute.
Step Two: Cook
- Add the frozen corn kernels to the skillet and toss to evenly coat each kernel in the seasoned butter.
- Cook the corn undisturbed for 3-5 minutes. Stir and repeat until the corn is golden brown and charred.
- Remove the charred corn from the skillet and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Thawing Corn: Thaw the corn before cooking. Once thawed, pat the corn dry to avoid steaming.
- Storage: Let the corn completely cool. Place in an air-tight container in the fridge for 3 – 5 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the corn in a hot skillet for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the corn mushy.
- Homemade Blackened Seasoning: Mix together 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder,1 tbsp dried oregano,1 tbsp dried thyme, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level), 1 tsp salt