Fried corn recipe is a beloved Southern side dish that transforms sweet summer corn into a buttery, golden skillet masterpiece. Unlike deep-fried recipes, Southern fried corn is pan-sautéed—seasoned and cooked with love until each kernel becomes caramelized, tender, and bursting with flavor.
This hearty side dish pairs well with everything from fried chicken to pork chops, barbecue, or even biscuits and gravy. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make traditional fried corn and how to adjust the recipe to suit your pantry, season, or taste.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients – You only need a handful of pantry staples.
Big on Flavor – Caramelized corn, butter, and a touch of spice make it irresistible.
Quick and Easy – Comes together in under 30 minutes.
Versatile Side Dish – Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or everyday meals.
What Is Fried Corn?
Fried corn is a Southern side dish made by cooking corn kernels in butter, oil, or bacon drippings in a skillet until they’re browned and flavorful. Sometimes called “skillet corn” or “Southern-style corn,” it’s usually seasoned with salt, pepper, and sugar, though some recipes include cream, onions, or hot sauce for extra richness and depth.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you need to make a basic fried corn recipe:
4 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 6 ears of corn)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or bacon grease)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for higher smoke point)
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional but recommended)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, enhances sweetness)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: ¼ teaspoon paprika, cayenne pepper, or garlic powder for added depth
Optional: 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (for creamy fried corn)
Notes on Ingredients
Fresh corn is best for flavor and texture, but frozen or canned can work too.
Butter vs. Bacon Grease: Butter adds richness, but bacon drippings give you that authentic Southern flavor.
Onions caramelize and enhance the sweetness of the corn.
Sugar is not required but enhances caramelization.
Timing & Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Step-by-Step Instructions for Fried Corn Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and use a sharp knife to slice the kernels off the cob. Use the back of the knife to scrape out the “milk” from the cob—this adds flavor and body.
If using frozen corn, thaw and drain completely. Pat dry to avoid steaming in the pan.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the butter (and oil or bacon grease, if using) over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent—about 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Corn
Stir in the corn kernels. Let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to allow them to brown. Stir occasionally and continue cooking for 10–12 minutes until the corn is tender and golden in spots.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, sugar, and any optional spices. If you prefer creamy fried corn, add the cream or milk in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Serve hot, directly from the skillet.
Tips for the Best Fried Corn
Use a cast iron skillet for the best caramelization and even browning.
Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for a good sear.
Let it sit for a couple of minutes without stirring so the corn can get brown and crispy in spots.
Don’t skip the milk from the cob if using fresh corn—it’s liquid gold.
Variations to Try
1. Creamy Fried Corn
Add 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream toward the end and simmer until slightly thickened. This is a great option for a more decadent side dish.
2. Bacon Fried Corn
Cook 4 strips of bacon in the skillet first. Remove and crumble the bacon, leaving the grease in the pan to fry the corn. Stir the crumbled bacon back in before serving.
3. Cheesy Fried Corn
After cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or parmesan over the hot corn and stir until melted.
4. Spicy Fried Corn
Add minced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce while cooking.
5. Herb-Infused Corn
Stir in fresh thyme, basil, or parsley at the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Fried corn is a classic side dish that complements:
Fried chicken or pork chops
Grilled steaks or BBQ ribs
Cornbread or biscuits
Roasted vegetables or baked beans
Thanksgiving or holiday dinners
It’s also great served in a bowl with a spoon and enjoyed as a warm snack or comfort food dish all on its own.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead
You can prep the corn a day in advance and refrigerate it. If using fresh, scrape it from the cob and store in an airtight container.
Storage
Store leftover fried corn in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts. Add a pat of butter or a splash of water if it seems dry.
Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)
Approximate values for one of six servings:
Calories: 180
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 3g
Note: This varies based on how much butter, sugar, and any add-ins you use.
Southern Fried Corn vs. Corn Fritters vs. Corn Pudding
Dish Description Texture/Use Fried Corn Corn kernels sautéed in butter or bacon fat Savory, caramelized, tender Corn Fritters Batter of corn, flour, and eggs, then fried Crispy outside, fluffy inside Corn Pudding Baked creamy corn casserole with eggs and milk Custardy, spoonable side dish
FAQs
Can I use canned corn?
Yes. Drain and rinse well. Pat dry before cooking to avoid steaming.
What’s the difference between fried corn and creamed corn?
Fried corn is cooked in a skillet with butter or bacon grease until caramelized. Creamed corn is typically simmered with cream or milk and has a looser, spoonable texture.
Can I make fried corn vegan?
Absolutely. Use plant-based butter or oil and omit any dairy or bacon.
Can I freeze fried corn?
You can freeze it, but texture may change slightly. Let it cool, pack in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
What kind of corn is best?
Fresh sweet corn is ideal, especially in season. Frozen is a great second option. Avoid canned unless it’s your only choice, and always dry well before frying.
Conclusion
Fried corn recipe is one of those timeless Southern dishes that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. With its sweet, slightly crispy kernels and savory richness, it’s the perfect way to highlight fresh corn during the summer—or add comfort to your table any time of year.
Whether you enjoy it creamy, cheesy, spicy, or smoky, there’s a version of fried corn to match your cravings. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never go back to plain boiled or steamed corn again.