This Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob is a summer delight! Fresh corn is grilled to perfection and slathered in tasty garlic butter—yum!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist grabbing a second or third ear because it’s just that good! 🌽 I love serving it at BBQs; it pairs perfectly with everything!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is essential for the best flavor. If it’s out of season, you can use frozen corn but adjust the cooking time. I always prefer the crunch of fresh corn, especially from a local farmer’s market.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness better. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try using olive oil, but it might not have the same rich taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. If you’re sensitive to garlic, you can reduce the amount or leave it out completely; the corn will still be delicious!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness. You can swap it for other herbs like cilantro or chives if you prefer their flavors.
Spices: The optional smoked paprika or chili powder adds a kick. Feel free to experiment with other spices too! I love adding a pinch of cayenne for an extra layer of warmth.
How Do You Grill Corn Perfectly?
Grilling corn can be tricky, but with the right technique, you’ll get that perfect tender bite and beautiful grill marks. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high to ensure even cooking. A hot grill helps develop good char marks.
- Turn the corn frequently while it grills—every 2-3 minutes—to get an even cook and prevent burning.
- Look for a sweet and tender texture. It usually takes 10-15 minutes for it to be just right.
- If you want more smoky flavor, try wrapping the corn in foil the last few minutes of grilling.
By using these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly grilled corn every time, packed with flavor and a tender bite!
How to Make Garlic Butter Grilled Corn On The Cob
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder (for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes to grill. In total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
First things first, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your corn will cook evenly and develop those lovely grill marks.
2. Make The Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. If you’d like to kick up the flavor, now’s the time to add the smoked paprika or chili powder. Stir everything together until well mixed—the smell will be amazing!
3. Brush The Corn:
Take each ear of corn and brush on the garlic butter mixture generously. Make sure you get the mixture into the kernels for added flavor. Don’t be shy—this is where the magic happens!
4. Grill The Corn:
Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill each ear for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’re looking for that sweet spot where the corn is tender and shows beautiful grill marks.
5. Add The Final Touches:
Once your corn is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the grill. Brush on any leftover garlic butter to keep it moist and flavorful.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the grilled corn with chopped parsley to add a fresh touch. Serve it hot and get ready to enjoy your delicious garlic butter grilled corn on the cob!
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
While fresh corn is ideal for grilling, you can use frozen corn if that’s what you have on hand! Just thaw the corn first, pat it dry to remove excess moisture, and then you can follow the same preparation and grilling steps. Keep in mind that grilling times may vary slightly.
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Garlic Butter?
Great question! You can get creative with additional seasonings. Besides smoked paprika and chili powder, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, or some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Just mix these additions in with your garlic butter before brushing it on the corn.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Corn?
If you have leftovers, let the corn cool completely, then wrap it in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will be good for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the grill, in the oven, or even in the microwave, but note that the texture may change slightly.
Can I Grill Corn with the Husk On?
Yes, you can grill corn with the husk on! This method steams the corn and helps keep it moist. Just soak the ears in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent the husks from burning. You can still use the garlic butter, but you might want to brush it on after you remove the husk post-grilling for maximum flavor!
