This Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob is a summer must-try! Sweet corn is slathered in tasty garlic butter and grilled to perfection for a smoky flavor.
Honestly, who can resist warm corn dripping with butter? It’s a side dish that shines at picnics or backyard BBQs. Just be ready for buttery fingers! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is the star of this recipe. Look for bright, green husks and plump kernels. If fresh corn is not available, frozen corn can work, but grilling gives the best flavor and texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps you control the saltiness. For a healthier option, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative. I sometimes mix in a bit of coconut oil for a unique flavor twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punchy flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always my preference for the best taste. A hint of roasted garlic can also add a great depth of flavor!
Fresh Parsley: While parsley adds freshness, cilantro can be a great substitute if you prefer a bolder flavor. I personally enjoy adding basil for a different herbaceous touch.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient gives a lovely depth to the corn. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine. If you can’t find either, just skip it—you’ll still have delicious corn!
How Do I Get The Corn Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling corn can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve tender, charred results! First, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat, which helps to sear the corn and lock in flavors.
- Start by mixing your garlic butter thoroughly. Generously coating the corn lets all those flavors infuse into the kernels.
- Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn it every few minutes so each side gets that lovely char—this usually takes around 10-15 minutes total.
- If you prefer, you can soak the corn in water for 30 minutes beforehand. This helps it steam and stay juicy while grilling.
Let the corn cool slightly before serving. It not only tastes better when it’s warm, but the butter melts nicely into the kernels, making every bite delicious! Enjoy your grilled corn with lime for a tangy kick!
How to Make Garlic Butter Grilled Corn On The Cob
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corn:
- 6 ears of corn, husked
For the Garlic Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 10-15 minutes for grilling, so in total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes to enjoy delicious garlic butter grilled corn on the cob!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your corn cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and looks delicious!
3. Prepare the Corn:
Husk the corn and remove all the silk strands. If you prefer, you can break the cobs in half for easier handling on the grill. This step makes it simpler to eat later on!
4. Brush with Garlic Butter:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously spread the garlic butter mixture all over each ear of corn. Make sure every inch is coated for maximum flavor!
5. Grill the Corn:
Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want it to be nicely charred and tender, which makes it taste incredible!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once the corn is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the grill. Let it cool for a minute or two before serving. It’ll be super hot!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your grilled corn warm with any leftover garlic butter and some lime wedges for squeezing on top, if you like! Dig in and enjoy this tasty summer treat!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn, but grilling fresh corn gives the best flavor. If using frozen, thaw it completely first and pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture. You may need to adjust grilling time, cooking until heated through and slightly charred.
What If I Have Leftover Garlic Butter?
Great question! You can store any leftover garlic butter in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To use it later, simply reheat it briefly in the microwave or on the stove. It’s perfect on vegetables, pasta, or as a spread for bread!
How to Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make garlic butter corn dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. Just ensure that the product you choose melts well, so the garlic and spices can infuse nicely!
Can I Prepare the Corn Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to grill the corn fresh, you can husk and prepare it in advance. Keep the ears covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. Brush with garlic butter right before grilling for the freshest taste!
