This garlic butter grilled corn on the cob is a summertime favorite! Sweet corn is brushed with creamy garlic butter and then grilled to perfection. Yum!
Corn and butter go together like peanut butter and jelly! I love making this dish for cookouts. It’s super easy to whip up and always gets big smiles!
When I make this, I like to serve it hot off the grill. Just be careful; it can get messy but that’s half the fun! Can’t wait for you to try it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh sweet corn is best for this recipe. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen corn, but grilling fresh gives the best flavor. Look for husks that are green and tightly wrapped for the freshest ears.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt levels better. If you want lighter calories, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute, which can work well with the garlic.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can substitute, but use less – about 1 teaspoon. I love adding more garlic for an extra kick!
Paprika: This is optional, but it brings a nice color and a hint of smokiness. You can swap it with chili powder or leave it out if you prefer a milder taste.
Lime: Fresh lime juice adds great brightness. If limes are hard to find, you could use lemon, but the flavor will be slightly different. I always keep lime on hand; it really elevates the dish!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Corn?
Grilling corn on the cob doesn’t have to be tricky. The key is in the grilling technique and timing. Here are some steps to make sure your corn comes out perfectly grilled:
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures an even cook.
- Brush the corn with the garlic butter mixture thoroughly. The butter will melt and help the corn caramelize, creating those lovely grill marks.
- Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn it every few minutes to get even cooking and a nice char. It should take about 10-15 minutes.
- Use tongs to handle the corn safely while grilling, and keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- After grilling, brush again with butter. This adds more flavor and keeps it nice and juicy.
Remember, the corn is done when it’s tender and has those beautiful grill marks. Enjoy the deliciousness!
How to Make Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 ears of corn, shucked
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled corn dish will take about 5 minutes to prepare and approximately 15 minutes to grill. In total, you should be ready to enjoy your Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob in around 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is important to get those lovely grill marks on your corn and to ensure it cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika if you want that little extra kick. Stir well until everything is combined—this is the tasty coating for your corn!
3. Brush the Corn:
Take each ear of corn and brush it generously with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to coat all sides so every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t be shy; you want that buttery goodness to soak in!
4. Grill the Corn:
Now, place the corn directly on the grill grates. Turn it occasionally while it cooks for about 10 to 15 minutes. You want your corn to become tender and get some nice grill marks on all sides. It’s easy to check; just feel for tenderness and look for those delicious charred lines.
5. Apply the Finishing Touches:
Once your corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill. Brush any remaining garlic butter mixture over the corn to add more flavor. Yum!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle your grilled corn with fresh chopped parsley for a splash of color and extra flavor. Serve with lime wedges on the side, if you’d like an extra burst of zesty goodness. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
While fresh corn is ideal for grilling, you can use frozen corn as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw the corn first and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Since frozen corn doesn’t have the same grill marks and flavor, consider using it in other recipes where grilling isn’t necessary.
What Can I Substitute for Unsalted Butter?
If you need a dairy-free option, feel free to substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. If you’re okay with slightly altering the flavor, canola oil or coconut oil work as well. Just keep in mind that the taste might differ a bit!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Corn?
Store any leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave for a quick snack or add it to salads and dips. For reheating, consider wrapping it in foil and placing it on a grill or in an oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to maintain its flavor.
Can I Make the Garlic Butter Mixture in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time. Just combine the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to grill, simply warm it slightly to melt before brushing it on the corn.
