Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob 🧀🧄🌽
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is a flavor-packed twist on classic corn on the cob. Juicy, sweet corn is slathered with a garlicky butter mixture and topped with gooey Parmesan and melty mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a side dish that’s rich, indulgent, and downright irresistible. Perfect for BBQs, summer cookouts, or cozy family dinners, this cheesy corn will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Let’s dive into how to make this cheesy, garlicky delight step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion : The combination of garlic butter, Parmesan, and melty cheese is pure comfort food.
- Simple & Quick : Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep—perfect for busy nights or last-minute sides.
- Customizable : Swap cheeses or add spices like chili powder for extra flair.
- Perfect for Sharing : Great for feeding a crowd at BBQs, picnics, or family dinners.
- Versatile : Serve it grilled, boiled, or roasted depending on your preference.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 4 ears of corn , husked 🌽
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter , melted 🧈
- 2 cloves garlic , minced 🧄
- ½ tsp salt 🧂
- ½ tsp black pepper ⚫
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness ) 🌶️
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix of both! ) 😋
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Corn
Choose your preferred cooking method:
Option 1: Boiling
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 5–7 minutes , or until tender.
- Remove the corn from the water and let it drain.
Option 2: Grilling
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the corn for 8–10 minutes , turning occasionally, until slightly charred and tender.
Option 3: Roasting
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Place the corn on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes , turning halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter , minced garlic , salt , black pepper , and paprika (if using ). Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Slather and Top
- Brush each ear of corn generously with the garlic butter mixture , ensuring all sides are coated.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered corn.
- Top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese , pressing gently to help it stick.
Step 4: Optional Melting
- For an extra gooey finish, place the cheese-topped corn under a broiler for 1–2 minutes , or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Tip : Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the cheesy garlic butter corn warm as a side dish or snack.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Corn : Fresh, in-season corn is sweeter and juicier—perfect for this recipe.
- Experiment with Cheeses : Try crumbled feta, cotija, or smoked gouda for a unique twist.
- Add Heat : Sprinkle chili powder or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Storage : Leftover corn can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days . Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Make It Ahead : Prep the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Warm before using.
Perfect Pairings
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled Meats : Serve alongside steaks, burgers, or chicken for a complete BBQ meal.
- Fresh Salads : Pair with a crisp arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Chips & Dips : Serve with tortilla chips and guacamole or salsa for a fun appetizer spread.
- Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
(Based on 4 servings)
- Calories : ~250 kcal
- Protein : ~6g
- Carbohydrates : ~25g
- Fat : ~16g
- Fiber : ~3g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is a simple yet indulgent side dish that’s sure to steal the show at any meal. Whether you’re grilling for a summer BBQ, roasting for a cozy dinner, or boiling for a quick snack, this corn delivers bold flavors and creamy textures that everyone will love. The combination of garlicky butter, nutty Parmesan, and gooey cheese creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the cheeses, adjust the spices, or pair it with different mains to make it your own. So grab your corn, melt that butter, and get ready to enjoy a side dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
