Garlic Butter Parmesan Corn on the Cob Delight
If you love sweet, juicy corn slathered in rich garlic butter, you’re in for a treat! In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step to make Garlic Butter Parmesan Corn on the Cob that’s bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a sunny barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this easy recipe adds a delicious twist to your meal. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich and savory flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or summer barbecues.
- Grilled Goodness: The method of grilling the corn in foil helps to lock in moisture and infuse the delicious garlic butter flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add other toppings like chili flakes or lime zest to make it your own!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 fresh ears of corn, husked and cleaned
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
I love using fresh corn for this recipe. The sweetness of fresh corn shines when grilled. You want to husk and clean your corn well. This way, you get rid of all the silk and dirt.
Unsalted butter is the base for my garlic butter. It allows me to control the saltiness of the dish. I melt the butter, and it combines well with the garlic. Mince the garlic finely. This step ensures that the garlic flavor spreads evenly.
Parmesan cheese adds a rich taste. I recommend finely grating it so it sticks well to the corn. Fresh parsley gives color and a fresh taste. Smoked paprika adds warmth and a slight kick.
You can adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Lastly, lemon wedges add a zesty touch when you squeeze them over the corn. This simple list of ingredients creates a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat Your Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high. This step is key for great flavor. A hot grill gives the corn those nice char marks. It also cooks the corn evenly. To check, hold your hand above the grill. If you can’t keep it there for more than 3 seconds, it’s hot enough.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the flavors blend together. This garlic butter is the heart of the dish. It makes the corn taste rich and savory. Add more garlic if you love that flavor.
Season and Wrap the Corn
Take each ear of corn and brush it with the garlic butter. Make sure to coat all sides. This step ensures every bite is full of flavor. Then, wrap each ear tightly in aluminum foil. This keeps the steam inside, helping the corn cook perfectly.
Grilling the Corn
Place the wrapped corn on the hot grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes. Turn the corn every few minutes to avoid burning. You’ll know it’s done when it smells amazing and feels tender. Be careful when unwrapping; hot steam will escape!
Finishing Touches
Once the corn is off the grill, brush on extra garlic butter. This adds another layer of flavor. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top while it’s warm. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley for color. Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty touch. Enjoy your delightful corn on the cob!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
For great flavor, consider using herbed butter instead of garlic butter. You can mix in rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist. If you want a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes.
For cheese, Parmesan shines here, but you can try feta or crumbled goat cheese. These cheeses bring a unique taste to your corn. Each option adds its own special flavor while keeping the dish delicious.
Perfecting Grilling Techniques
Managing your grill heat is key. Start with a medium-high heat, but adjust as needed. Too hot can burn your corn. Keep an eye on it and turn the corn every few minutes. This helps it cook evenly without charring.
To avoid burning, wrap the corn well in foil. This traps steam and keeps the corn moist. If you notice any areas getting too brown, move them to a cooler part of the grill.
Serving Suggestions
This corn pairs well with grilled meats like chicken or steak. The smoky flavors of the grill complement each other perfectly. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a light meal.
For a fun twist, serve the corn on a platter with toppings. Let guests sprinkle on extra cheese or herbs. You could even set out flavored butters for them to try. This adds a fun, interactive element to your meal.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob will give you the sweetest flavor. Look for bright green husks and plump kernels for the best results.
- Customize Your Garlic Butter: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in your garlic butter. Adding a bit of crushed red pepper can give it a nice kick!
- Grill Timing: Keep an eye on the corn while grilling. Cooking times may vary based on the size of the corn and the heat of your grill, so check for tenderness.
- Serve with Flavor: Besides lemon wedges, consider serving with lime or even a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra layer of flavor that complements the corn beautifully.

Variations
Different Spices to Try
To spice up your garlic butter Parmesan corn, try using different spices. You can swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or even chili powder. Chili powder adds a nice kick. Just start small, then add more if you like heat. You can also mix in herbs like oregano or thyme for added flavor. Each spice offers a unique twist that keeps your corn exciting.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake or boil your corn. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the corn with the garlic butter mixture, wrap it in foil, and bake for about 25 minutes. Boiling is another quick way. Simply bring water to a boil, add the corn, and cook for 5-7 minutes. Both methods keep the corn juicy and tasty.
Seasonal Variations
Seasonal herbs can take your corn to the next level. In spring, try adding fresh basil or chives. In summer, dill or cilantro work wonders. You can also use sweet corn when it’s in season for extra sweetness. This corn pairs well with fresh veggies from your garden, making it a perfect seasonal dish. Explore these variations to find your favorite!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Butter Parmesan Corn on the Cob fresh, follow these steps:
– Refrigeration: After serving, let the corn cool for a bit. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store it in an airtight container in your fridge.
– Shelf Life: It will stay good for up to 3 days. Make sure to eat it within this time for the best flavor.
Reheating Instructions
When it comes to reheating, you have two good options:
– Microwave: Place the corn on a plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it for about 1-2 minutes. Check to see if it’s hot all the way through.
– Grill: If you want that grilled taste again, wrap the corn in foil. Heat it on the grill for about 5-10 minutes. This keeps the flavor intact.
Tips for Maintaining Flavor:
– Add a little extra garlic butter when reheating.
– Squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top to brighten the taste. Enjoy your delicious corn!
FAQs
How do I know when the corn is done grilling?
You will know the corn is done when it is tender. The kernels should be bright yellow and juicy. A good sign is when the corn starts to smell sweet while cooking. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes on the grill. You can also poke a kernel with a fork to check for softness.
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen corn, but fresh corn tastes best. Fresh corn has a crisp texture and sweeter flavor. Frozen corn is convenient and still tasty. If you use frozen, make sure to thaw it first for even cooking.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast. It gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also use vegan cheese or a mix of breadcrumbs and herbs. These options keep your dish tasty while meeting dietary needs.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, sprinkle cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes over the corn. You can also mix some hot sauce into the garlic butter. For a smoky kick, try adding chipotle powder. Adjust the spice level to your liking for the perfect kick.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can grill the corn ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the grill or in the oven when ready to eat. Brush on fresh garlic butter and sprinkle cheese right before serving for best flavor.
We explored a delicious corn grilling recipe today. You learned the best ingredients, grilling techniques, and tips for flavor. Remember to preheat your grill for even cooking and to use fresh spices for extra flair. Whether you choose garlic butter or a spicy twist, the options are endless. Store any leftovers properly to enjoy later. This recipe not only impresses but also allows room for your creativity. Grab those fresh ingredients and fire up your gril

Garlic Butter Parmesan Corn on the Cob
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn, husked and cleaned
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your grill to a medium-high temperature, ensuring it is ready to achieve that delicious grilled flavor.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Take each ear of corn and brush it generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring that all sides are coated for maximum flavor.
- Carefully wrap each ear of corn tightly in a sheet of aluminum foil, ensuring the ends are sealed well to trap the steam inside while cooking.
- Place the wrapped corn directly onto the preheated grill and cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning the corn every few minutes to ensure even cooking, until it becomes tender and fragrant.
- Once cooked, remove the corn from the grill and carefully unwrap the foil, being cautious of the hot steam that will escape.
- While the corn is still warm, brush on additional garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor, then generously sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan cheese over each ear of corn.
- Finish by garnishing with the freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, perfect for a zesty spritz atop your delicious corn.

