Name: Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ears of corn, husked and cleaned; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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If you want to light up your next barbecue or make any dinner a little more memorable, Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob always steals the show. With sweet, smoky, and savory flavors mingling on every juicy bite, this recipe transforms simple summer corn into a truly irresistible side dish. The buttery garlic glaze, velvety blanket of Parmesan, and shower of fresh herbs make this an easy classic you’ll crave all season long.

Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, relying on just a handful of powerhouse ingredients that each bring their own magic. Take a quick peek in your fridge and pantry, and you might already have everything for Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob!

Corn on the Cob, husked and cleaned: Use fresh, plump ears if possible; the sweetness is unbeatable, but frozen cobs work too for convenience.
Unsalted Butter, melted: Rich and velvety, butter soaks into every kernel for a silky texture and helps the flavors stick.
Minced Garlic: For a fragrant, punchy kick—don’t skip this, it’s the heart of the recipe!
Salt: Just enough to make the sweetness of the corn pop.
Black Pepper: Adds a gentle spice and balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
Smoked Paprika (optional): Lends a subtle smoky depth and a hint of color—highly recommended for that grilled flavor.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the corn for an irresistible cheesy finish—try cotija or feta for a fun twist.
Chopped Fresh Parsley: Bright and herbal, parsley gives a final burst of freshness and color.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob

Step 1: Prep Your Grill or Oven

Decide whether you want those gorgeous grill marks or the simplicity of an oven broil. Preheat your grill to medium-high or, if you’re going the oven route, set it to broil and position a rack close to the top. While everything’s heating up, get your corn cobs washed, husked, and ready for flavor.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine your melted unsalted butter with the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Give it a good stir and breathe in the aroma—it’s a preview of how epic your Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is about to taste!

Step 3: Brush the Corn

Use a pastry brush (or even a spoon in a pinch) to slather each ear of corn generously with that golden garlic butter mixture. Make sure every nook and cranny is coated, so you get full-on flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Grill or Broil the Corn

Place your corn directly on the grill grates or on a foil-lined baking sheet for the oven. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes if grilling, turning the cobs every few minutes until lightly charred and tender. If you’re broiling, go for 8 to 10 minutes, rotating a couple of times to ensure an even roast and a bit of caramelization.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Garnish

Remove the hot corn and immediately shower it with grated Parmesan. The residual warmth will melt it slightly, creating a luscious cheesy layer. Finish with a scatter of chopped parsley for a burst of color and zesty freshness. Serve while it’s warm and the cheese is at its gooiest!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob

Garnishes

The classic topping is a flurry of grated Parmesan and parsley, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Try a squeeze of fresh lime, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of chili oil for extra flair. Even a sprinkle of smoked sea salt can elevate your Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob to the next level.

Side Dishes

Pair this irresistible corn with easy weeknight favorites or show it off at your next summer cookout. It’s dreamy next to grilled chicken, burgers, veggie skewers, or even a light pasta salad. If you want to make a meal out of summer produce, serve it alongside a vibrant tomato salad or roasted potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, cut the cobs into thirds and stick in skewers for cheesy “corn pops.” Or, stand the cobs upright on a large platter, drizzle with extra garlic butter, and let guests sprinkle their own toppings. Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob also looks gorgeous laid out on a rustic wooden board with bowls of extra cheese and herbs on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob, wrap each ear tightly in foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The corn will still hold onto its flavors beautifully!

Freezing

To freeze, let the corn cool fully, then wrap each cob in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. Store in a freezer bag for up to two months. When you’re ready for another bite of summer, just thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop the ears (still wrapped in foil) into a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until hot. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the cobs on a plate, covering them with a damp paper towel, for 1 to 2 minutes. Add a little extra butter and cheese if you like to revive the flavors.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob without a grill?

Absolutely! The recipe works beautifully in the oven under a broiler. You’ll get that roasted flavor and melty cheese without needing to fire up the grill.

What other cheeses work well besides Parmesan?

If you’re feeling adventurous, cotija and feta are both excellent for a tangy, crumbly finish. Try aged cheddar or even shredded mozzarella for more melt and a different flavor profile.

Can I use frozen corn cobs?

Yes, frozen corn cobs are a great alternative! Just let them thaw completely before brushing with the garlic butter and cooking, so they absorb all the flavors and cook evenly.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot paprika to the butter mixture, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the finished dish for a gentle, spicy kick. A little chili powder goes a long way, too.

Is this recipe gluten-free and vegetarian?

Definitely! Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a safe choice for most guests at your table.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob truly makes every dinner or gathering feel like a special occasion. It’s the kind of easy, crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll want to share again and again. Fire up the grill, grab your freshest corn, and enjoy some melty, garlicky, cheesy goodness tonight!

Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe

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4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob. This simple yet decadent recipe features tender corn coated in a savory garlic butter blend, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Corn:

6 ears of corn, husked and cleaned

Garlic Butter Mixture:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Toppings:

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Preheat Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven to broil.
Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Coat Corn: Brush each ear of corn generously with the garlic butter mixture.
Grill or Broil: Grill the corn for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender. If using the oven, broil for 8 to 10 minutes, rotating once or twice.
Finish: Sprinkle hot corn with Parmesan cheese to melt slightly. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.