This Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob is a summer favorite! Sweet corn is grilled to perfection and slathered in rich garlic butter, giving it a mouthwatering flavor.
Who can resist the smell of corn sizzling on the grill? I love nibbling on it as it’s still warm. Just don’t forget the napkins; things might get a little buttery! 😄
Making this dish is super easy. Just brush corn with garlic butter and grill it until it’s tender. Perfect for barbecues or just a fun evening meal at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is a must for the best flavor! Look for ears that are plump and have bright green husks. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can use frozen corn, but the grilling effect will be missed.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Both work well and still give richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic has a strong flavor that makes this dish shine. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a substitute, using about 1/2 teaspoon for every clove.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice color and freshness. If you don’t have it, consider cilantro or chives as alternatives for a different twist. Or skip it entirely if you prefer.
Paprika & Lemon Juice: These ingredients add extra dimension. Smoked paprika can give a nice depth. If you want a little zing, other citrus juices—like lime—can be a great substitute for lemon.
How Do I Grill Corn to Perfection?
Grilling corn can be simple, but there are some tips to make it outstanding. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat for the best char.
- Husk the corn completely or leave a few outer layers on for a more rustic look and some protection against burning.
- Generously coat each ear with the garlic butter mix to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning it every 2-3 minutes for even cooking. Look for well-marked grill lines and tender kernels.
- Don’t shy away from adding the garlic butter on top after grilling. It makes a big difference!
With these tips, you’ll have beautifully grilled corn that’s bursting with flavor. Enjoy!
How to Make Garlic Butter Grilled Corn On The Cob
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to grill, totaling around 20-25 minutes. You’ll have a delicious side dish ready for your next BBQ or family meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to achieve those beautiful grill marks on your corn and ensures even cooking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Spread:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley (if using), salt, black pepper, paprika (if you like a bit of spice), and lemon juice. Use a fork or a spatula to blend everything well until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be your delicious garlic butter that flavors the corn!
3. Prep the Corn:
Husk the corn by removing the outer layers and silk. If you’d like, you can break each ear in half for easier handling on the grill.
4. Coat the Corn with Garlic Butter:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously spread the garlic butter mixture all over each ear of corn. Make sure to get it nice and coated for the best flavor!
5. Grill the Corn:
Place the coated corn directly on the grill grates. Grill the corn for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning it occasionally. You want it to become tender and develop those lovely grill marks.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill. If you have any leftover garlic butter, drizzle it over the corn for an extra burst of flavor. Serve warm, and if desired, garnish with additional chopped parsley. Enjoy your tasty garlic butter grilled corn on the cob!
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen corn, but it’s best to thaw it first for even grilling. To thaw, simply leave it in the fridge overnight or run it under cold water in a colander for a quick solution. Once thawed, coat with the garlic butter and grill as usual!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Parsley?
No problem! You can substitute dried parsley, but use only about 1 tablespoon since dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh. Alternatively, you can leave it out or replace it with other fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a different flavor.
Can I Make the Garlic Butter Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Allow it to soften at room temperature before using it on the corn.
How to Store Leftover Corn?
If you have leftover grilled corn, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be consumed within 3 days. To reheat, grill it for a few minutes, or warm it in the microwave, then add a little more garlic butter for extra flavor!
