Southern Fried Corn Recipe
Southern Fried Corn
If you’ve ever tasted golden, buttery corn straight from a cast-iron skillet, you know it’s pure Southern comfort. This Southern Fried Corn recipe takes just 25 minutes and transforms simple ingredients into a rich, savory side dish that pairs beautifully with anything from grilled chicken to Sunday pot roast.
Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a cookout, or craving a quick side, this fried corn recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for the Best Southern Fried Corn
- Fresh Corn (10 ears) – Use sweet, juicy corn on the cob for the best flavor. Shuck and slice the kernels off — this gives you that crisp, golden texture that makes fried corn irresistible.
- Salted Butter – The key to that classic Southern richness. It coats every kernel in a buttery, savory goodness that’s hard to beat.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn while balancing the buttery flavor perfectly.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – Adds a subtle kick and a touch of earthy spice to round out every bite.
Southern Fried Corn
This Southern Fried Corn recipe brings crispy, buttery flavor to your table in just 25 minutes! Perfect for barbecues, holidays, or any weeknight meal. Made with simple ingredients fresh or frozen corn, butter, salt, and pepper for a true Southern classic.
Course: Side Dish Cuisine: American Keyword: Southern Fried Corn Recipe Prep Time: 15minutes minutes Cook Time: 10minutes minutes Total Time: 25minutes minutes Servings: 12
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 10 ears of fresh corn, shucked and kernels cut off (or about 6 cups frozen corn)
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, for that rich, Southern flavor
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, to enhance sweetness
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- (Optional) 1 cup chopped onions for added flavor
How to Make Southern Fried Corn
- Prep the Corn
Shuck the corn and cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry. - Melt the Butter
In a large cast-iron skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it begins to foam slightly. - Cook the Corn
Add corn, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally for about 8–10 minutes until tender and golden brown.
Scrape the bottom of the pan to release all those buttery browned bits — that’s flavor! - Optional Flavor Boost
For deeper flavor, sauté the onions in butter first until softened, then add the corn. - Taste & Serve
Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately while hot and sizzling.
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
- Cheesy Corn: Stir in grated Parmesan or crumbled feta right before serving.
- Creamy Version: Add 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk for a creamy Southern twist.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in cayenne or smoked paprika for a little heat.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Keep up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a little butter or water to restore moisture.
Nutrition Calories: 120 kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 336mg | Potassium: 300mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g Vitamin A: 180 IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern Fried Corn made of?
Southern Fried Corn is made with simple, classic ingredients fresh corn, butter, salt, and black pepper. Some people add onions, milk, or cream for a richer, creamier texture. It’s a traditional Southern side dish that turns sweet corn into something buttery, golden, and flavorful.
Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh corn isn’t in season, you can use frozen corn (about 6 cups) or even canned corn that’s been drained well. Fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture, but frozen corn works great for a quick, convenient version.
What’s the best skillet for making Southern Fried Corn?
A cast-iron skillet is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and gives the corn that slightly crisp, caramelized edge. However, a stainless-steel or non-stick skillet will also work perfectly — just make sure it’s large enough to hold all the corn.
How do I make the corn creamier?
For creamy Southern Fried Corn, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking. You can also blend half the corn before frying to create a naturally creamy texture without adding dairy.
Can I add other ingredients for more flavor?
Definitely! Many Southern cooks like to add chopped onions, crumbled bacon, garlic, or cheese for extra flavor. Try sautéing onions first in butter, then adding the corn — it adds a sweet, savory depth that’s hard to resist.
Conclusion
There’s something truly special about a skillet full of Southern Fried Corn — the buttery aroma, the golden color, and the way each bite bursts with sweet and savory flavor. It’s the kind of simple, home-cooked comfort food that reminds you why Southern recipes have stood the test of time.
Whether you’re serving it alongside crispy fried chicken, smoky barbecue, or a cozy Sunday roast, this fried corn recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. With just a few fresh ingredients and a hot skillet, you can create a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in minutes.
If you’ve never tried making Southern Fried Corn at home, now’s the time. One taste, and you’ll understand why this humble side dish has been a beloved Southern tradition for generations.
So grab your skillet, melt that butter, and let the magic happen because nothing says comfort quite like buttery, golden, Southern Fried Corn.
