Few things are as satisfying as biting into a juicy ear of buttery, cheesy corn on the cob with a rich garlic flavor. Whether grilled, roasted, or boiled, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is the perfect side dish for BBQs, summer gatherings, or even a comforting weeknight meal.
Corn is not just a delicious ingredient; it also provides essential nutrients like fiber and antioxidants. According to Healthline, corn is rich in vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The best ingredients for maximum flavor
- Grilling, boiling, and roasting methods
- Flavor-enhancing variations
- Storage & reheating tips
This dish pairs exceptionally well with Beef and Broccoli or a Chicken Caesar Salad for a complete meal.
Why This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is a Must-Try
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes!
Versatile – Cook it on the grill, in the oven, or by boiling.
Super Flavorful – A perfect blend of garlic butter, cheese, and seasonings.
Pairs Well with Other Dishes – Enjoy it with Beef and Broccoli or a refreshing Raspberry Lemonade.
Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Main Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (or Cotija, Cheddar, or Mozzarella)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Pro Tip: Use fresh corn for the juiciest results. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works too!
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Prepare the Corn
- Remove the husks and silk from the corn.
- If grilling, soak the corn in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- For boiling, bring a large pot of water with a splash of milk to a boil. This enhances the sweetness of the corn.
Make the Garlic Butter
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Let it cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Fun Fact: The combination of buttery garlic and Parmesan cheese creates an irresistible umami flavor!
Cooking Methods
Grilled Corn on the Cob (For Smoky Flavor!)
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush each ear of corn with garlic butter and place directly on the grill.
- Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred.
- Sprinkle with cheese and parsley before serving.
Boiled Corn on the Cob (For Maximum Juiciness!)
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a splash of milk for extra flavor.
- Add corn and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Remove from water, pat dry, and coat with garlic butter & cheese.
Oven-Roasted Corn on the Cob (For Caramelization!)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place corn on a baking sheet, brush with garlic butter, and roast for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese in the last 2 minutes of roasting.
Flavor Enhancements & Variations
Want to customize your corn? Try these tasty variations:
🌶️ Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
🧀 Extra Cheesy: Mix in Mozzarella, Cheddar, and Cotija cheese.
🌿 Herb-Infused: Add chopped cilantro, chives, or basil.
🌱 Vegan-Friendly: Use vegan butter & dairy-free cheese.
Pair your cheesy garlic butter corn with a fresh Chicken Caesar Salad for a refreshing balance of flavors.
What to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn
This flavorful corn makes the perfect side dish for:
- Beef and Broccoli – A hearty, protein-packed meal to complement the corn.
- Chicken Caesar Salad – A crisp and creamy salad to contrast the rich, buttery corn.
- Grilled Chicken or Steak – A perfect BBQ combo!
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery, just like the corn.
- Raspberry Lemonade – A light and refreshing drink to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
Avoid microwaving too long, or the corn may turn rubbery!
FAQs – People Also Ask
What’s the best cheese for cheesy corn on the cob?
Parmesan and Cotija are the best choices for a nutty, salty flavor. However, Cheddar or Mozzarella work well for a meltier texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the garlic butter and cheese mix in advance. Store it in the fridge, then apply it to freshly cooked corn before serving.
How do I prevent my corn from becoming too mushy?
Avoid overcooking! Grill for no more than 10 minutes, and boil for 5–7 minutes for the perfect texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use vegan butter and nutritional yeast as a cheese substitute.
What’s the best way to remove corn silk easily?
Rub a damp paper towel over the corn after husking to catch any leftover silk strands.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you grill, roast, or boil it, the combination of buttery garlic, melted cheese, and smoky paprika will take your corn to the next level!
Pair it with Beef and Broccoli or a Chicken Caesar Salad for a well-rounded meal.
Try it out and let us know—what’s your favorite way to enjoy corn on the cob? 🌽🧄🧀