This vegan buttery skillet corn is creamy, sweet, savory, and packed with rich buttery flavor — without dairy. It’s an easy side dish that pairs beautifully with BBQ, tacos, roasted vegetables, or holiday meals.
Serves
4–6 people
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups corn kernels
(fresh, frozen, or canned & drained) - 3 tbsp vegan butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup finely diced onion or shallot
- ¼ cup unsweetened plant milk
(oat, soy, almond, or cashew) - Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Flavor Additions
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- 1 tsp maple syrup (for sweetness)
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Squeeze of lime juice
Best Corn to Use
Fresh Corn (Best Flavor)
- About 5–6 ears of corn
Frozen Corn
- Convenient and works very well
- No need to thaw completely
Canned Corn
- Drain and rinse well
- Slightly softer texture
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
If Using Fresh Corn
- Remove husks and silk.
- Carefully slice kernels off the cob.
Tip: Place the cob upright in a large bowl while cutting to catch kernels.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add vegan butter.
- Add diced onion or shallot.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Do not brown the garlic.
Step 3: Cook the Corn
- Add corn kernels to the skillet.
- Stir well to coat in butter.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The corn should become slightly golden in spots.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
- Pour in plant milk.
- Add:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Nutritional yeast (optional)
- Smoked paprika or chili flakes if using
- Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
The sauce should lightly coat the corn without becoming soupy.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Turn off heat and add:
- Fresh herbs
- Lime juice
- Extra vegan butter if desired
Serve warm.
Flavor Variations
Vegan Creamed Corn
Add:
- Extra plant milk
- 2 tbsp vegan cream cheese
Spicy Southwest Version
Add:
- Jalapeños
- Chili powder
- Cilantro
- Lime
Garlic Herb Corn
Add:
- Thyme
- Basil
- Extra garlic
Street Corn Style
Top with:
- Vegan mayo
- Lime
- Chili powder
- Vegan parmesan
Serving Ideas
Pairs well with:
- BBQ tofu
- Veggie burgers
- Tacos
- Grilled vegetables
- Rice bowls
- Roasted potatoes
Chef Tips
- Slight charring adds amazing flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or the corn may steam instead of caramelize.
- Cashew milk gives the creamiest texture.
- Nutritional yeast adds savory depth.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration
- Store up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Reheating
- Warm in a skillet over low heat.
- Add a splash of plant milk if needed.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180–250
- Carbs: 22–28g
- Fat: 8–12g
- Protein: 3–5g
