Southwestern Skillet Corn
Bursting with bold flavors and a touch of heat, Southwestern Skillet Corn is an easy, vibrant side dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes! Made with fresh or frozen corn kernels, sweet red bell pepper, and a kick of jalapeño, this recipe is infused with warm spices like cumin and smoked paprika for a smoky, Southwest-inspired twist. A squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and green onions add a zesty, herby finish, while the skillet's high heat creates irresistible golden-brown charred bits for a depth of flavor. Perfect as a standalone side, it’s also a fantastic topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or hearty salads. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving a colorful dish, this one-skillet wonder delivers on flavor, simplicity, and versatility!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped and seeds removed
- 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 0.25 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 stalks green onions, sliced
Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter, letting the butter melt completely.
Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the diced red bell pepper and chopped jalapeño to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Stir in the corn kernels along with the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Increase the heat to medium-high and cook the mixture for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow some of the corn to achieve a light golden-brown char for added flavor.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lime juice, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. Mix until well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or lime juice if needed.
Serve warm as a side dish or over tacos, grilled meats, or salads.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1148 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 51.5 g | 66% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.1 g | 66% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 31 mg | 10% | |
| Sodium | 1333 mg | 58% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 175.3 g | 64% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 28.7 g | 102% | |
| Total Sugars | 57.9 g | ||
| Protein | 30.5 g | 61% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 131 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 8.8 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 2848 mg | 61% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
