Quick and Easy Blackened Corn Skillet Recipe
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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 as a side dish in salads, empanadas, burrito bowls, tacos, and quesadillas.
Blacked Corn Cliff Notes
EASE: Super easy!
CUISINE: American
COURSE: Side dish
TIME: 15 minutes
Blackened corn is an easy side dish to make on your stovetop. Melt butter in a skillet, add blackened seasonings and corn kernels, and sauté until charred. It doesn’t get much easier than that!
But why stop at a side dish? Blackened corn has a deep and spicy flavor that can enhance many dishes. I love tossing it with avocado, tomatoes, and feta cheese to make a refreshing corn salad. Another favorite way to enjoy blackened corn is as a salsa or relish, mixing it with jalapeno, red onion, and lime. This combination is perfect for burrito bowls, tacos, and quesadillas.
It is a summer BBQ picnic food alongside maple & bourbon baked beans, white bean salad, traditional deli potato salad, jalapeño Jiffy Cornbread, and the BEST green bean recipe!
Ingredients and Equipment
- Frozen Sweet Corn Kernels – You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. I prefer frozen, except in summer when fresh corn peaks and the flavor is amazing.
- Blackened Seasoning – Use the blackened seasoning of your choice. I use a premade mix. If you prefer your combination, I have included a recipe below. It is super easy.
- Butter – Two tablespoons of the butter or plant-based butter of your choice.
- Skillet – Use a cast iron skillet if you have one. If not, it’s okay; you can still make this recipe in a traditional pan!
My Best Tips
How to Achieve the Perfect Skillet Char
- Use High Heat: Preheat your skillet over high heat before adding the corn to achieve the perfect char. High heat helps to caramelize the corn’s sugars quickly, giving it that delicious blackened flavor and crispy texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Spread the corn kernels in an even layer and avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can cause the corn to steam instead of char, resulting in a less crispy texture.
- 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.
My Favorite Pairings
Perfect Pairings
Frequently Asked Questions
Did you make this? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out!
Quick and Easy Blackened Corn Skillet Recipe
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: If you have time, thaw the frozen corn before cooking. Pat the corn dry to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
- Storage: Let the corn completely cool. Place in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 3 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.
- Garnishes: Add freshly chopped cilantro, sliced jalapenos, and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Safety Tips
- Hot Skillet: Use oven mitts when working with a hot skillet to prevent burns.
- Ventilation: The high heat can cause smoke. Use your hood or open a window so that your kitchen is ventilated.
