Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate summer side dish, let me introduce you to Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob. This recipe is everything you love about fresh, sweet corn—amplified with a luscious blend of real butter, aromatic garlic, a lavish cascade of Parmesan cheese, and the brightness of fresh parsley. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together at barbecues, potlucks, or even an average weeknight meal, and it’s so simple you’ll want to make it over and over. Get ready for corn that practically melts in your mouth and turns any table into a celebration!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s take a quick look at the simple yet essential lineup for Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob. Each ingredient truly brings something special—whether it’s sweetness, richness, spice, or irresistible aroma—to create a side dish destined for instant classic status.
- Fresh corn on the cob (6 ears): Nothing beats the juicy sweetness of freshly husked corn at its peak; look for plump, bright kernels for the best flavor.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Rich, creamy butter acts as the perfect base for our garlic and cheese—use unsalted so you can control the seasoning.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic infuses every bite with warmth and depth; don’t be afraid to go a little extra if you adore garlic.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): A little salt brings out the natural corn sweetness and balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A dash of pepper adds subtle heat and extra aroma.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Salty, nutty Parmesan brings a gorgeous cheesy crust to the hot buttered corn.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Parsley brings a pop of color and a fresh, herbal finish to brighten the whole dish.
- Optional: Smoked paprika or chili powder (¼ teaspoon): For a hint of smoky or spicy flair, add a sprinkle—especially good for heat-seekers or a southwestern vibe!
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Step 1: Prep the Corn
Start by husking your corn and removing every last bit of silk—this is your foundation for Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob, so don’t rush. If you can get corn fresh from the farmer’s market, even better! It makes a huge difference in flavor and juiciness.
Step 2: Boil the Corn
Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Gently add the husked corn and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s perfectly tender. There’s no need to overcook—just until the corn brightens and the kernels are plump and juicy.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
While the corn cooks, melt your butter and stir in that fresh, minced garlic—your kitchen is about to smell downright irresistible. Add salt, black pepper, and your choice of smoked paprika or chili powder for an optional kick. Give it a quick stir and set aside.
Step 4: Brush and Cheese
As soon as the corn is done, drain it well and arrange the ears on a platter. While they’re still piping hot, brush each one generously with the garlic butter. Then, shower the corn with grated Parmesan, letting the heat melt the cheese into a glorious, cheesy crust.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This not only adds gorgeous color but also a lovely herbal note. Serve immediately—corn waits for no one!
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Garnishes
A final dusting of parsley is the go-to, but you can take things up a notch with chives, a little extra Parmesan, or even a touch more smoked paprika for a burst of color and flavor. Want a zesty finish? Try a quick squeeze of lemon—trust me, it’s a game changer!
Side Dishes
Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob pairs beautifully with all things grilled—think smoky barbecue chicken, juicy burgers, or herbed steaks. It’s also lovely alongside light summer salads, potato salad, or a cooling coleslaw for contrast. Don’t forget fresh watermelon or sliced tomatoes for a true summer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Pop each ear on a skewer for easy serving at parties, or slice the corn into halves or thirds for a fun, shareable appetizer platter. For an elegant dinner, stand the corn on a platter and drizzle with extra garlic butter and cheese table-side—your guests will swoon and ask for seconds!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), wrap the cooled Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this corn—just let it cool completely, then wrap each ear well in plastic and foil. Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. For best results, skip garnishing with fresh herbs before freezing; add parsley after reheating for the freshest look and taste.
Reheating
Reheating is a breeze: just wrap the corn in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or zap it in the microwave until heated through. If you have extra garlic butter, brush it on before reheating for even more richness!
FAQs
Can I grill the corn instead of boiling it?
Absolutely! Grilling brings a smoky depth that works wonders with Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob. Simply grill over medium heat, turning every couple of minutes, until nicely charred and cooked through.
What other cheeses can I use besides Parmesan?
You can go wild with cheese swaps—try cotija or feta for a bolder, tangier twist, or even a sprinkle of grated aged cheddar for extra sharpness. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor, so experiment to find your favorite!
How do I make this dish spicier?
For a little heat, don’t hesitate to add more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to your garlic butter mixture. Smoked paprika also adds warmth without overwhelming the corn’s flavor.
Can I prepare Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob ahead of time?
You can boil or grill the corn ahead, then cover and refrigerate the ears. When ready to serve, simply reheat, brush with fresh garlic butter, and finish with cheese and parsley for that just-made taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free and vegetarian?
Yes! This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, so it’s perfect for sharing at gatherings with a range of dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob—it’s comforting, crave-able, and destined to be a highlight at any meal. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try the next time you get your hands on gorgeous, fresh corn. Gather your favorite people, serve it up, and get ready for a chorus of happy sighs. Enjoy every buttery, cheesy bite!
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Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob, a delicious twist on a classic summer side dish. Sweet corn brushed with a savory garlic butter mixture, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese, and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Corn:
- 6 ears of fresh corn, husked
Garlic Butter Mixture:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder
Additional:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Boil the Corn: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional paprika or chili powder.
- Coat Corn: Drain the corn and place on a serving platter. Brush each ear generously with the garlic butter mixture.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese while the corn is hot. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
- For a grilled version, cook for 8–10 minutes on the grill instead of boiling.
- Try adding crumbled cotija or feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
