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Savory Garlic Herb Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob

garlic herb butter grilled corn - featured image

A quick and easy grilled corn on the cob recipe featuring a flavorful garlic herb butter that adds a smoky, fresh twist perfect for summer BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, thyme, chives; basil or cilantro optional)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, lemon juice, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Husk and clean the corn. Optionally, pull back husks without removing, remove silk, then fold husks back to cover the corn for steaming effect; otherwise grill husked ears directly.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). If using charcoal, wait until coals are covered with white ash.
  4. Place corn on the grill and turn every 3-4 minutes for even cooking. Grill for 15-20 minutes until kernels have some char and smell smoky.
  5. Remove corn from grill and generously slather garlic herb butter over each ear while still hot.
  6. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra fresh herbs or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Apply garlic herb butter after grilling to avoid burning garlic bits. Husk-on corn steams and stays juicy with less char; husk-off chars better but can dry out. Use fresh herbs for best flavor. Watch grill heat to avoid over-charring. Butter can be substituted with plant-based spread for dairy-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, garlic herb butter, summer BBQ, easy side dish, grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, smoky corn