Garlic Butter Corn

Name: Garlic Butter Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ears of fresh corn, husked and cleaned; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Creations

I absolutely love this Garlic Butter Corn recipe! It's a simple yet delicious way to elevate sweet corn with a rich garlic-infused butter that brings out the natural sweetness of the corn. Whenever I make this, it transports me to summer barbecues and family gatherings. The wonderful aroma fills the kitchen, making it irresistible. Whether served on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in under 20 minutes. Trust me, you'll want to keep this one in your regular rotation!

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:00:35.284Z

My journey with Garlic Butter Corn began when I was looking for a side dish that would not only complement my main course but also tantalize the taste buds. After trying various versions, I found that using freshly minced garlic and high-quality butter really made a difference in flavor. The secret lies in melting the butter gently with the garlic to release its full aroma and taste.

Once I discovered how quickly this dish came together, it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. Pairing it with an extra squeeze of lemon brightens the dish even more, creating a beautiful balance of flavors that everyone seems to love. Don't forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs for an extra flavor punch!

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Corn
Rich, buttery flavor enhanced by aromatic garlic.
Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 20 minutes.
Versatile as a side dish for any meal or even as a light snack.

Perfecting the Garlic Butter

The key to this Garlic Butter Corn lies in the balance of flavors, particularly the infusion of garlic into the butter. When melting your butter, keep the heat at medium to avoid burning, which can create a bitter taste. You'll want to see the butter bubbling gently before adding the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it’s just golden; this usually takes about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes fragrant and lightly colored, not browned.

For a more pronounced garlic flavor, consider using roasted garlic. Roasted garlic has a sweeter, milder taste that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully. Simply wrap unpeeled garlic cloves in foil and roast them at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes. Once softened, mash them into the butter instead of fresh garlic, giving your dish a deeper, richer profile.

Choosing and Preparing Corn

Fresh corn is essential for this recipe, as frozen corn may lose some of its sweetness and texture. When selecting corn, look for ears with bright green husks and plump, moist kernels; this indicates freshness. If you can, pick the corn just before cooking to maximize its natural sugars. Avoid any ears with dried or brown silks, as these are signs of aging and can affect flavor and texture.

When cutting the kernels off the cob, a simple trick is to stand the cob vertically in a bowl. This will catch the kernels as you cut them, preventing mess and waste. If you prefer, you can also use a corn stripper tool, which effectively removes the kernels while keeping them intact. Whether using a knife or a stripper, aim for clean, even cuts to maintain the integrity of your dish.

Ingredients

4 ears of fresh corn, husked and cleaned
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Corn

Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Cut the corn kernels off the cob using a sharp knife.

Melt the Butter and Cook the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Cook the Corn

Add the corn kernels to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is tender.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture while cooking the garlic.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Corn is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, steak, or seafood, making it an excellent addition to summer barbecues or family gatherings. For a creative twist, try serving it inside tacos with grilled shrimp and avocado or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal.

If you're looking to make it a more substantial side, consider mixing in ingredients like diced bell peppers or onions during the cooking process. These not only enhance the color but also add layers of flavor. You could also sprinkle some crumbled cotija cheese or parmesan on top before serving for a lovely salty complement to the sweet corn.

Make-Ahead and Storage

While Garlic Butter Corn is best served fresh, you can prepare the corn and garlic butter mixture in advance. Simply store the cut corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The garlic butter can also be made ahead: melt the butter and garlic together, then cool it and store in the fridge. Reheat just before serving, stirring to combine.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for about three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or a bit more butter to retain moisture. Avoid high heat, as it may lead to overcooked, rubbery corn. This dish can also be frozen; just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn is a great alternative! Just adjust the cooking time to about 5 minutes as it's already cooked.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this Garlic Butter Corn recipe are gluten-free.

→ Can I add cheese to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding grated Parmesan or feta cheese right before serving enhances the flavor even more.