This Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob is pure summer joy! The corn is sweet and juicy, brushed with a yummy garlic butter that adds lots of flavor. It’s a perfect side for those sunny cookouts.
Grilling corn makes it extra delicious. I always have to remind myself not to burn my fingers while trying to eat it hot off the grill! 🌽🔥 Grab some napkins, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh sweet corn is the star here! Look for bright yellow kernels that are plump and firm. If fresh corn isn’t available, use frozen corn kernels instead, but grilling is key to that charred flavor.
Butter: I use unsalted butter to control the salt level better. If you prefer a dairy-free option, go for vegan butter or olive oil for a lighter taste without sacrificing flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best as it adds a robust flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, jarred minced garlic can be used. Just remember that it’s less potent, so adjust the quantity based on your taste.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. If you don’t have it, try using cilantro or even fresh basil for a different twist. Dried herbs can also work, but use less as they’re more concentrated.
Paprika: This is optional, but it gives a nice mild heat and color. Smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor, and if you want some kick, consider using cayenne pepper instead.
How Do I Grill Corn to Perfection?
Grilling corn can be super easy if you follow a few simple steps. Start by preheating the grill, which helps achieve those nice char marks. Here’s how I do it:
- After making the garlic butter, slather it generously on the corn. You can even let it marinate for a bit to soak up the flavors.
- Place the corn on the grill and turn it every few minutes. This helps it cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks.
- Cook until tender and slightly charred, usually 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the kernels should plump up nicely.
- Let the corn cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your fingers. Pair it with lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor!
Garlic Butter Grilled Corn On The Cob
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Corn:
- 4 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
For The Garlic Butter Spread:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for seasoning)
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Butter Grilled Corn On The Cob will take you about 10 minutes to prep, plus about 10-15 minutes to grill. In total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes to enjoy this scrumptious treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by turning on your grill and setting it to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the corn cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Spread:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley (if using), salt, black pepper, and paprika (if you’re adding it). Stir well until everything is combined into a creamy spread—and trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Prepare the Corn:
Take each ear of corn and generously slather that garlic butter mixture all over it. Don’t be shy—make sure every inch of the corn is covered! This will give it plenty of flavor when it’s grilled.
4. Grill the Corn:
Place the loaded corn directly onto the grill grates. Let it grill for about 10 to 15 minutes. Be sure to turn the corn occasionally so it cooks evenly and gets beautiful charred spots.
5. Cool and Season:
Once the corn is tender and has grill marks, carefully remove it from the grill (it’ll be hot!). Let it cool for about a minute. If you’d like, sprinkle on some extra salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic butter grilled corn warm with lemon wedges on the side for a little extra zing. Squeeze some lemon juice over the top for that refreshing kick. Enjoy your tasty grilled corn!
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen corn, but fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture! If using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely beforehand. You can quickly thaw it in the microwave or by placing it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Grilling time may also be a bit shorter, so keep an eye on it!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Parsley?
Fresh parsley adds a nice touch, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute it with other fresh herbs like cilantro or chives. Dried herbs can work too—just use about a teaspoon since they are more concentrated in flavor.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Corn?
Store any leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat it, you can do so on the grill for a couple of minutes or microwave it until heated through. Adding a little more butter or garlic will help enhance the flavor again!
Can I Make the Garlic Butter Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it soften at room temperature before using it to spread on the corn. This can save time on grilling day!
