Name: Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn, husked; 1/2 cup butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of grilled corn with the bold flavors of garlic and cheese, creating a side dish that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re grilling for a backyard BBQ or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this corn on the cob is fast, flavorful, and family-approved. It’s also simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is completely vegetarian.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 ears of corn, husked
1/2 cup butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Brush each ear of corn with the garlic butter mixture and season with salt and pepper.
Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
Remove the corn from the grill and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 220 kcal per serving

Variations

Mexican-style twist: Add a sprinkle of chili powder and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Cheese swap: Try shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Oven-roasted: If grilling isn’t an option, roast the corn in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
Herb lover’s version: Mix chopped basil or thyme into the garlic butter for a fragrant finish.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, wrap each ear of corn tightly in foil or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the corn on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. For best flavor, brush with a little extra garlic butter before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the corn is fully cooked on the grill?

The corn is done when the kernels are tender and lightly charred. You can test with a fork; it should easily pierce the kernels.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can roast the corn in the oven or cook it on a stovetop grill pan.

What kind of Parmesan cheese works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and offers a more robust flavor than pre-packaged options.

Can I use frozen corn on the cob?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before applying the butter and grilling.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

You can use vegan butter and a dairy-free cheese substitute to make this recipe dairy-free.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the garlic butter ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

What other herbs can I use instead of parsley?

Chives, basil, or cilantro are great alternatives depending on your flavor preference.

How do I prevent the corn from drying out on the grill?

Basting with garlic butter and rotating frequently helps keep the corn juicy and flavorful.

Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the Parmesan or mix in other cheeses for a cheesier finish.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s kid-friendly and can be customized to suit milder palates by reducing the garlic or skipping herbs.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is the ultimate side dish that turns simple ingredients into a flavorful treat. Whether served at a summer cookout or alongside your favorite dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and always a hit. With its melty garlic butter and cheesy finish, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.