Few things evoke the feeling of summertime joy quite like biting into a juicy, golden ear of corn. This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn recipe elevates that nostalgic pleasure to gourmet territory with a rich, creamy coating of melted cheese, infused garlic butter, and a touch of spice. It’s the perfect side for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or anytime you crave something easy yet irresistibly indulgent.

Imagine the aroma of roasted garlic and butter wafting through the air, melting seamlessly over sweet corn kernels, and finished with a blanket of gooey cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s comfort food that’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and always a hit with guests. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, this dish transforms an everyday vegetable into a mouthwatering centerpiece.

Ingredients for this Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn Recipe

6 ears of fresh corn, husked
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by cleaning and husking your corn. Remove all silk threads and rinse the ears thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel. If desired, you can trim the ends for a neater presentation.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Once done, set aside.

Step 3: Grill or Roast the Corn

Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). If using a grill, place the corn directly on the grates and turn occasionally until slightly charred and cooked through—about 10–12 minutes. For oven roasting, place the corn on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Brush with Garlic Butter

Once the corn is cooked, transfer it to a tray or board. Generously brush each ear with the warm garlic butter, ensuring it seeps into the crevices between the kernels.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

While the corn is still hot, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. You can place the corn back on the grill or under a broiler for 2–3 minutes to help melt the cheese, or simply let the heat from the corn do the job.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Finish by dusting the corn with smoked paprika, if using, and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Ear)

Calories: 230
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 6g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of corn is best for this recipe?

Fresh, sweet corn on the cob works best. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes! You can use frozen corn on the cob—just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.

Can I prepare this in advance?

You can make the garlic butter ahead of time and refrigerate it. Cook the corn fresh and assemble just before serving.

What cheese alternatives can I use?

Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta for a different twist.

Can I add spice?

Yes! Add a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes to the butter for a kick.

Do I need to grill the corn?

Nope! Roasting or even boiling the corn works well. Grilling just adds a smoky flavor.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Double the cheese and place the corn under a broiler for 2–3 minutes to get that bubbly, golden topping.

Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn Recipe

Author: Sophia Langley
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Craving a savory, indulgent twist on a summer classic? This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn recipe takes ordinary corn on the cob and turns it into a mouthwatering side dish that’s creamy, garlicky, and loaded with melted cheese. Perfect for quick dinners, BBQ parties, or as a creative addition to your list of easy recipe ideas, this corn dish is bursting with rich, buttery flavor and irresistible gooey cheese. With hints of garlic and a touch of spice, it hits all the right notes—comforting, flavorful, and unforgettable. Whether you’re searching for a new dinner idea, healthy-ish snack, or food idea for entertaining, this one delivers every time.

Ingredients

6 ears of fresh corn, husked

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Husk and clean the corn, removing all silk. Rinse and pat dry.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Preheat grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). Grill or roast the corn for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred.
Brush hot corn with garlic butter generously.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the corn while it’s still hot.
For extra melt, return corn to grill or broiler for 2–3 minutes.
Season with smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish