If you’re looking for a show-stopping side that combines the irresistible flavors of butter, garlic, and cheese, then this Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a simple yet indulgent twist on classic corn on the cob, marrying tender, slightly charred corn with a luscious garlic butter sauce and a generous sprinkle of cheese. Every bite bursts with a comforting richness and a touch of savory delight that’s sure to become a favorite family staple or the star of your next barbecue.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each one playing a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color in your Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe.
- 4 ears of corn, husked: Fresh corn is the foundation, providing natural sweetness and crisp texture.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and carries the garlic and seasoning flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant, savory punch that elevates the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, warming heat to balance the buttery notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Introduces a smoky depth and a beautiful hint of color.
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, tangy finish that complements the butter and garlic.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens every bite.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill or Oven
Start by setting your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for getting the corn tender and slightly charred without drying it out, setting the stage for that irresistible smoky flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This mixture is the secret sauce that infuses your corn with amazing flavor, so make sure the garlic is finely minced to evenly spread that garlicky goodness.
Step 3: Brush the Corn
Generously coat each ear of corn with the garlic butter mixture. Don’t be shy—this helps the flavors seep into every kernel while keeping the corn moist and luscious during cooking.
Step 4: Grill or Bake the Corn
If you’re grilling, place the corn directly over medium heat and turn occasionally for about 10 to 15 minutes. You want the corn to develop those lovely char marks and become tender to the bite. If using an oven, arrange the corn on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes for a similar tender effect.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the corn is hot and perfectly cooked, sprinkle the shredded parmesan or cheddar over each ear. The residual heat will melt the cheese, creating a gooey, savory topping that’s irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the butter and cheese.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic, but you can also try a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty twist. These garnishes enhance the bold flavors already at play while adding visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a vibrant side to a summer salad. Don’t be surprised if it steals the spotlight, though—its bold flavors and comforting richness can complement almost any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the corn skewered with colorful cocktail sticks for easier handling, especially at gatherings. You can also cut the cooked corn off the cob and mix it with extra garlic butter, cheese, and herbs to create a luscious corn salad or topping for baked potatoes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover corn in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to two days without losing too much of that buttery, cheesy flavor.
Freezing
Freezing cooked corn on the cob with the garlic butter and cheese is not recommended as the texture of corn changes and the cheese can separate upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated for a short period.
Reheating
To reheat, wrap the corn in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for a minute or two, but be sure not to overdo it to keep the corn tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
While fresh corn is preferred for the best texture and flavor, you can use thawed frozen corn if you carefully grill or bake it with the garlic butter mixture. However, you will lose some of the natural sweetness and crispness.
What type of cheese works best in this Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe?
Parmesan and cheddar are both excellent choices. Parmesan gives a nutty, salty punch that melts quickly, while cheddar adds a sharper, creamier wow factor. Feel free to experiment with mozzarella or even cotija for a Mexican twist.
Can I make a vegan version of this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil, use a dairy-free cheese alternative, and the rest remains the same. Minced garlic and herbs will keep the flavors fresh and satisfying.
Is smoked paprika necessary?
It’s optional but highly recommended. Smoked paprika adds a depth of warmth and subtle smokiness that makes the corn sing, especially if you’re not grilling and missing that natural char flavor.
How do I keep the cheese from sliding off the corn?
Make sure the corn is piping hot right after cooking. Sprinkle the cheese immediately so it melts into the butter, sticking to the kernels. You can even cover the corn briefly to trap heat and encourage melting.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe is such a joyful celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a way that’s absolutely mouthwatering. Whether you’re firing up the grill or baking indoors, it’s an easy, flavorful side that brings comfort and a touch of indulgence to any meal. Trust me, once you try it, it will become one of your go-to crowd-pleasers that everyone will be asking for again and again.
Print
Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob recipe offers tender, slightly charred corn coated in a flavorful garlic butter blend and topped with melted parmesan or cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish, it can be grilled or baked to suit your preference and garnished with fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Corn and Butter Mixture
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for cooking the corn.
- Mix Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to create the garlic butter mixture.
- Brush Corn: Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over each husked ear of corn, ensuring they are well coated for maximum flavor.
- Cook Corn: Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. If using the oven, place the corn on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese evenly over the hot corn and let it melt from the residual heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the cheesy corn with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm for a delicious side dish.
Notes
- You can choose between parmesan or cheddar cheese based on your preference.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Turn the corn frequently while grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes to the butter mixture.
- If baking, wrapping the corn in foil can help retain moisture.
