Are you ready to elevate your summer cookouts with Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob? This easy delight combines sweet, juicy corn with rich, savory garlic butter to create a dish everyone will love. In this guide, I’ll show you how to pick the best corn, make a simple garlic butter mix, and grill it to perfection. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible recipe!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 1 tablespoon parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
Ingredient Tips
Selecting the best corn for grilling
When choosing corn, look for ears with fresh, green husks. The kernels should be plump and tightly packed. Gently squeeze the ear; it should feel firm. Avoid corn with brown or dry husks. Sweet corn is the best choice for grilling.
Alternatives for butter and seasoning
If you want a dairy-free option, try olive oil instead of butter. You can also use vegan butter. For seasoning, feel free to mix in spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick. Fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro can also add a fresh twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the grill: Start by turning on your grill to medium-high heat. It should reach about 400°F. This step is key to getting that nice char on your corn.
2. Making the garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything blends into a creamy mix. You want it smooth to spread easily on the corn.
Grilling Corn
1. Wrapping corn in aluminum foil: Husk the corn and remove all the silk. If the ears are too long, you can break them in half. Generously coat each ear with your garlic butter mixture. Then, wrap each piece tightly in aluminum foil. This helps steam the corn while it grills.
2. Cooking time and turning instructions: Place the wrapped corn on the grill. Cook for 15-20 minutes. Be sure to turn the corn every 5 minutes to cook evenly. If you like a charred flavor, unwrap the foil for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Final Touches
1. How to garnish corn: Once the corn is done, take it off the grill carefully. Unwrap the foil and watch out for steam. For a tasty finish, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the hot corn.
2. Serving suggestions: Serve the corn with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon adds a nice zing to the sweet corn. Enjoy this Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob as a side dish at your next BBQ or picnic. For the full recipe, check the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Grilling Techniques
To get the perfect char on your corn, preheat your grill well. Medium-high heat works best for grilling corn. The high heat gives a nice char and locks in flavor. If you want that gorgeous grill mark, turn the corn every few minutes. This ensures even cooking and a deep, smoky taste.
When it comes to cooking time, size matters. Smaller ears need about 15 minutes on the grill. Larger ears may take 20 minutes or more. Keep an eye on them. If you want more char, unwrap the foil for the last few minutes. This lets the corn brown nicely.
Flavor Boosters
For added flavor, you can mix in spices. I love adding paprika for a smoky kick. You can also try chili powder for heat or cumin for earthiness. Fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, can elevate the taste too.
Cheese can also boost your corn game. Parmesan is a classic choice, but you can try feta or cotija for a new twist. These cheeses add a nice creaminess and saltiness that pairs well with garlic butter.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled corn pairs perfectly with barbecued meats. Serve it alongside juicy burgers or grilled chicken for a great meal. You can also enjoy it with fresh salads for a lighter option.
For a fun twist, try serving the corn on skewers. This makes it easy to eat at parties or picnics. Drizzle extra garlic butter on top for a tasty finish. You can even sprinkle some lime juice for a zesty touch!
For the full recipe, you can check out the detailed steps above. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter grilled corn on the cob!
Variations
Alternative Cooking Methods
You can enjoy garlic butter corn in different ways. First, try oven-baked garlic butter corn. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Husk the corn and place it on a baking sheet. Spread the garlic butter mixture over the corn. Cover the corn with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 25 minutes. This method gives you soft and buttery corn.
Another option is boiled corn with garlic butter. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the husked corn and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Drain the corn and coat it with your garlic butter. This method is quick and keeps the corn juicy.
Flavor Variations
You can spice things up with a spicy garlic butter version. Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your garlic butter. This will give your corn a nice kick.
You can also create herb-infused butter. Mix in fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or cilantro. This adds a fresh taste to the corn. You can switch up the flavor and make it your own.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, this recipe is already safe. Just ensure to use gluten-free butter.
For vegan alternatives, swap the butter for a plant-based spread. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese. This keeps the flavor while making it vegan. Enjoy your garlic butter grilled corn in a way that suits your diet! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your grilled corn fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the corn in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. This prevents the corn from drying out. Grilled corn can stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, just make sure it cools completely before storing.
Reheating Methods
When you want to reheat your grilled corn, the microwave works well. Just place the corn on a plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in short bursts of about 30 seconds. This helps keep the corn moist.
You can also use the grill for reheating. Wrap the corn in foil and place it on the grill for about 10 minutes. This method helps maintain the flavor and texture. It brings back that smoky taste you love. Enjoy your garlic butter corn on the cob warm and tasty!
FAQs
Common Questions
How do you make garlic butter from scratch?
To make garlic butter, mix softened butter with minced garlic. Add sea salt and black pepper for taste. Stir well until everything blends nicely. This simple mix creates a rich flavor for your corn.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just thaw it first. Fresh corn tastes best, but frozen works in a pinch. Make sure to adjust grilling time, as frozen corn may take longer to cook.
What is the best way to cook corn on the grill?
The best way is to husk the corn and wrap it in foil. Add garlic butter for flavor. Grill on medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes. Turn occasionally for even cooking. This method keeps the corn moist and tender.
Additional Inquiries
How do I know when the corn is done grilling?
The corn is done when it feels tender. You can test by piercing it with a fork. If it is soft and plump, it’s ready. You can also look for a slight char on the kernels.
What are the health benefits of corn?
Corn is a great source of fiber. It helps with digestion and keeps you full. It also has vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health. Plus, corn can boost your energy levels.
User Tips
Tips from home cooks for making perfect grilled corn:
– Choose fresh corn with bright green husks.
– Soak corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling for extra moisture.
– Don’t skip the garlic butter; it adds a delicious flavor.
Common mistakes to avoid when grilling corn:
– Don’t overcook the corn; it can become mushy.
– Avoid direct heat without foil; the kernels might burn.
– Don’t forget to turn the corn often for even grilling.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
Grilling corn is easy and fun. We covered the key ingredients you need, like fresh corn and garlic butter. I shared steps for grilling, tips for best flavor, and fun ways to serve it. You can even try new methods or variations to suit your taste. Remember, grilling corn can be a tasty addition to any meal. Enjoy exploring these ideas to make the perfect garlic butter corn every time!
