Mama’s Simple Skillet Corn

Okay, y’all—who else remembers piling into the kitchen as a kid, leaning over a bowl of steaming-hot skillet corn while Mom hummed her favorite tune? There’s something magical about the way those tender, juicy kernels soak up butter (or bacon grease!) and a pinch of salt, turning simple ingredients into the coziest, most comforting side dish you can imagine. Let’s bring back that nostalgia with Mama’s Simple Skillet Corn—a recipe so easy and delicious, you’ll wonder why you ever overthought corn.

Sweet, tender corn kernels sauteed in savory fat and finished with a gentle simmer—comfort food at its finest, ready in under 15 minutes.

 Equipment You’ll Need:

• Large sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet with lid
• Mixing spoon

Ingredients:

• 4–6 ears fresh corn, shucked and kernels removed (about 3–4 cups)
• 2 tablespoons bacon grease or unsalted butter (or 1 tbsp each!)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup water

Instructions:

1. Cut the Kernels:
   Stand each ear of corn upright in a large bowl. Carefully slice downward with a sharp knife to remove the kernels.
2. Heat the Fat:
   Place your skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon grease and/or butter, stirring until melted and fragrant.
3. Sauté the Corn:
   Add the fresh corn kernels. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then stir to coat evenly in the fat. Sauté for 3–5 minutes, until the edges of some kernels just start to turn golden.
4. Add Water & Simmer:
   Pour in the water and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the kernels are tender-crisp and most of the liquid has evaporated.
5. Finish & Serve:
   Give the corn a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as the perfect side to any meal!

•  Extra Tips & Variations:
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan or crumbled Cotija cheese just before serving.
• Herb Boost: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or chives for color and brightness.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the sauté step.
• Creamy Version: Swap half the water for a splash of cream for a richer, creamed-corn feel.

Sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones our families remember best. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh corn, you can create a side dish that’s brimming with nostalgia—and big on flavor. Give this skillet corn a try, then lean back and savor those buttery, juicy kernels—just like Mama used to make!

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Mama’s Simple Skillet Corn

Sweet, tender corn kernels sautéed in savory fat and simmered to perfection—ready in under 15 minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 –6 ears fresh corn shucked and kernels removed (about 3–4 cups)
• 2 tablespoons bacon grease or unsalted butter
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup water

Equipment

• Large sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet with lid
• Mixing spoon

Method

 

1. Slice kernels from shucked ears of corn into a bowl.
2. Melt bacon grease/butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add corn, salt, and pepper; sauté 3–5 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Pour in water, cover, and simmer on low for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Stir, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Notes

• Add cheese (Parmesan or Cotija) for a cheesy twist.
• Stir in fresh herbs or red pepper flakes to customize.