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Perfect Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Butter

grilled corn on the cob with garlic butter - featured image

A quick and easy grilled corn on the cob recipe featuring a flavorful garlic butter that creates a smoky, buttery, and garlicky side dish perfect for summer BBQs and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning after grilling
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Husk the corn completely and remove all silk threads. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a kitchen towel. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and lemon juice. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Set aside. (5 minutes)
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–450°F). If using charcoal, let the coals develop a light gray ash for even heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. (10 minutes)
  4. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and grill for about 10-15 minutes total, turning every 3-4 minutes with tongs to ensure even charring. Look for bright golden brown spots with some blackened kernels. The corn should smell smoky and sweet. (15 minutes)
  5. Remove the corn from the grill and immediately brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each ear while still hot. The warmth melts the butter perfectly into every crevice. (2 minutes)
  6. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the buttered corn if desired. Serve hot. (1 minute)

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh garlic and brush the garlic butter immediately after grilling while the corn is hot. Soaking corn in water for 10 minutes before grilling can add moisture and reduce charring. Turn corn regularly to avoid burning. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn on the cob, garlic butter corn, summer BBQ side dish, easy grilled corn, smoky corn recipe