Garlic Butter Corn Cob

Golden-yellow garlic butter corn on the cob, glistening after being brushed with herbs. Save to Pinterest
Golden-yellow garlic butter corn on the cob, glistening after being brushed with herbs. | recipesbymarina.com

This dish features fresh ears of sweet corn cooked tender and generously coated with aromatic garlic butter blended with parsley, salt, and pepper. The warm corn absorbs the rich flavors, creating a mouthwatering side. For a smoky touch, grill the corn instead of boiling, and finish with optional Parmesan and extra herbs. Simple tools and minimal time make this an ideal summer accompaniment.

Discovering this Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob was like finding a little treasure on a summer afternoon, the kind of recipe that instantly feels like a warm hug from the kitchen.

I remember the first time unexpected guests dropped by and this dish saved the day with its effortless charm and irresistible aroma that filled the whole house.

Ingredients

  • Corn: Always choose fresh ears with bright yellow kernels for the sweetest bite.
  • Unsalted butter: Softened to blend perfectly with the garlic and herbs.
  • Garlic: Fresh and finely minced to spread the rich flavor evenly.
  • Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh to add a lively herbal note.
  • Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing flavors just right.
  • Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a savory finish that complements the buttery garlic.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a lively boil, listen to the bubbling sounds that promise tender corn ahead.
Cook the Corn:
Drop in the husked ears and let them cook until they’re tender but still have a little bite, about 8 to 10 minutes, then drain with care so no precious juices are lost.
Prepare the Garlic Butter:
Mix softened butter with finely minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper until smooth and fragrant, the garlic releasing its aroma that invites you closer.
Coat the Corn:
While the corn is still warm, lavish it with the garlic butter, spreading it over every kernel until they glisten.
Optional Finish:
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and more parsley on top for a flavor boost that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Close-up of vibrant garlic butter corn on the cob, ready to eat this summer. Save to Pinterest
Close-up of vibrant garlic butter corn on the cob, ready to eat this summer. | recipesbymarina.com

This dish became more than just food when we gathered around the picnic table on a balmy summer night, laughter mixing with the buttery garlic scent and creating memories as rich as the corn itself.

Keeping It Fresh

When corn is in season and freshly picked, you can taste the difference. Always pick ears with tightly wrapped husks and plump kernels that pop gently under your thumb.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Try serving this alongside grilled chicken or tossed into a fresh salad for a summery meal that is as colorful as it is delicious.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once, when the power went out during a family cookout, I switched to the grill and this garlic butter corn was the highlight, comforting everyone with its warmth and flavor.

  • Don’t forget extra napkins—they’re essential for catching buttery drips.
  • If parsley isn’t handy, cilantro or chives make a great swap.
  • Make sure to keep garlic finely minced to avoid overpowering bites.
Steaming plate of fresh garlic butter corn on the cob, a perfect American side dish. Save to Pinterest
Steaming plate of fresh garlic butter corn on the cob, a perfect American side dish. | recipesbymarina.com

Thanks for stopping by and sharing this garlic butter corn love—hope it brightens your table and your day as much as it does mine.

Recipe Questions & Answers

Boiling the corn for 8-10 minutes until tender is quick and easy, but grilling adds a smoky flavor and slight char for extra depth.

Combine softened unsalted butter with finely minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly until smooth and fragrant.

Yes, chives or cilantro are great alternatives to parsley, adding unique fresh notes.

Sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese and additional chopped parsley provides extra flavor and a nice finish.

Brush the hot corn generously with garlic butter and serve immediately, optionally with lime wedges for brightness.

Garlic Butter Corn Cob

Sweet corn enhanced with garlic butter and herbs for a quick, flavorful summer side dish.

Prep 10m
Cook 15m
Total 25m
Servings 4
Difficulty Easy

Ingredients

Corn

  • 4 ears fresh corn, husked

Garlic Butter

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish (optional)

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Additional chopped parsley

Instructions

1
Boil the corn: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the husked corn and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until tender. Drain thoroughly.
2
Prepare garlic butter: While the corn cooks, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl. Stir until well blended.
3
Apply garlic butter: Brush each hot ear of corn generously with the prepared garlic butter mixture using a pastry brush or spoon.
4
Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle the corn with grated Parmesan cheese and additional chopped parsley before serving.
Additional Information

Equipment Needed

  • Large pot
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush or spoon
  • Tongs

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories 190
Protein 4g
Carbs 25g
Fat 10g

Allergy Information

  • Contains dairy from butter and optional Parmesan cheese.
  • Ensure dairy products are labeled gluten-free if required.
Marina Costa

Passionate home cook sharing simple, flavorful recipes and helpful cooking tips for everyday food lovers.