This Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob is a summer favorite! Each bite is bursting with buttery, garlicky goodness and that smoky flavor from the grill makes it simply irresistible.
I love how easy it is to make! Just slather on the garlic butter, toss it on the grill, and enjoy the deliciousness. Perfect for barbecues or a cozy dinner. Yum!🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh, sweet corn is best for this recipe. If it’s not in season, you can use frozen corn, but the taste won’t be quite the same. For grilling, pick ears that feel firm and heavy.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you prefer a lighter option, try using olive oil instead. It’s great for grilling and adds a nice flavor too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated. I’ve found roasted garlic to be a delicious, milder substitute.
Parsley: This is optional but adds a fresh touch. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro works well too if you enjoy its flavor. For a different twist, try chives or green onions.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds some heat, but you can completely leave it out if you prefer your corn mild. If you want a bit of spice without cayenne, consider using paprika for color and flavor.
How Do You Grill Corn to Perfect Tenderness?
Grilling corn can be tricky, but a few tips can make it easier. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat for that perfect char. Husk and clean the corn, removing all the silk, so it grills evenly.
- Brush the corn with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Place the corn on the grill and turn it every few minutes. This helps it cook evenly and develop that nice char.
- Grill for 10-15 minutes, checking for tenderness. The kernels should burst with juiciness when done.
Once off the grill, brush with more garlic butter, add parsley, and squeeze lime juice. These extra steps elevate the flavor and presentation!
How to Make Garlic Butter Grilled Corn On The Cob
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corn:
- 6 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
For the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to grill, making a total of about 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This way, the corn will cook evenly and get those nice grill marks!
2. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like a little spice!). Mix everything together until well combined. This will be your flavorful coating for the corn.
3. Prepare the Corn:
Take the husked corn and brush it generously with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to coat all sides well so every bite has that delicious garlic flavor!
4. Grill the Corn:
Place the buttered corn on the grill. Make sure to turn it occasionally while grilling. Cook for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the kernels are tender and nicely charred to your liking.
5. Add Final Touches:
Once the corn is grilled, carefully remove it from the grill. Brush any remaining garlic butter over the corn. For an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle chopped parsley on top and squeeze fresh lime juice over it!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic butter grilled corn while it’s hot and enjoy the delicious flavor with family and friends. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn, but grilling it directly on the cob might be challenging. Thaw the frozen corn first and then thread it onto skewers for easy grilling. Adjust grilling time to about 5-10 minutes until heated through, as frozen corn doesn’t need to be cooked as long as fresh.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No problem! You can substitute with garlic powder. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic. Just mix it into the melted butter along with the other seasonings, and you’ll still get that great garlic flavor!
Can I Make the Garlic Butter Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before brushing it on the corn. This way, you’ll save time on your grilling day!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Corn?
Store any leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold, or reheat it on the grill or in the microwave. Just remember to brush it with a bit more garlic butter for extra flavor!
