If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful side that elevates simple summer corn to something downright irresistible, then this Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn Recipe is your new best friend. Combining the smoky char from the grill with the rich creaminess of butter, punchy garlic, and the sharp, nutty notes of Parmesan cheese, this dish transforms everyday corn into a mouthwatering masterpiece that’s perfect for any cookout or family dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn Recipe shines because of its simplicity, and that’s all thanks to each carefully chosen ingredient. Every element contributes a unique touch to the final dish, whether it’s the buttery base, the aromatic garlic, or the savory punch of Parmesan.
- 4 fresh corn ears: Look for bright yellow kernels that are tightly packed and juicy for the best grilling results.
- 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter: Provides rich creaminess and helps carry the garlic flavor beautifully onto the corn.
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced or grated: Adds that irresistible aromatic kick that pairs perfectly with grilled corn.
- A pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness from the corn.
- Black pepper to taste, freshly ground: Brings a subtle heat and depth to the buttery garlic topping.
- 1 ounce (28 grams) grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty, savory finish that makes this grilled corn truly special.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, bright color and a pop of herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
First things first, get your grill ready by heating it to around 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This perfect temperature lets you achieve that golden, slightly charred exterior while cooking the kernels through evenly without burning them.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
Gently peel away most of the corn husks but don’t remove them all. Leave that inner layer intact, then fold the husks back so you can pull out all the silky threads clinging to your corn. Once clean, fold those husks back over the ear—it’s like giving the corn a little protective jacket for grilling.
Step 3: Grill the Corn
Place the corn on the grill and let the magic happen. Turn it every few minutes so each side gets that perfect golden-yellow bounce and beautiful grilled char, usually taking about 15 to 20 minutes total. The smell as it cooks is already a preview of what’s coming.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter
While the corn grills, melt your butter in a small microwave-safe bowl—30 seconds to a minute should do. Stir in the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This luscious garlic butter sauce will be your secret weapon for flavor.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Once grilled, carefully remove those husks and brush the sizzling, fragrant corn generously with your garlic butter mixture. Then sprinkle on the grated Parmesan cheese and a touch of chopped fresh parsley for color and extra flavor layers.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
For the best experience, dive in while the corn is piping hot and the cheese is just beginning to melt, making every bite bursting with flavor and texture. It’s hard to resist!
How to Serve Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn Recipe even more festive, consider topping it with extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also bring an aromatic twist that complements the rich butter and cheese perfectly.
Side Dishes
This grilled corn pairs wonderfully with any summer mains like BBQ ribs, grilled chicken, or even a fresh green salad. Think of it as a vibrant, buttery pillow that balances smoky or spicy dishes with its creamy, garlicky goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the corn on a colorful platter with extra bowls of Parmesan and garlic butter for guests to customize their portion. Or, carefully cut the kernels off the cob and toss them into a summery salad or pasta dish for a playful twist on this Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain flavor and texture, keep the garlic butter separate and brush on freshly when reheating.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze grilled corn by cutting kernels off the cob and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with butter and Parmesan to revive the flavors.
Reheating
Reheat your Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a brush of fresh garlic butter to keep every bite moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
While fresh corn is ideal for grilling and getting that perfect char, you can use thawed frozen corn kernels tossed in garlic butter and Parmesan for a quick stovetop version, though the smoky grill flavor will be missing.
What type of Parmesan cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano is best for its robust, nutty flavor and fine texture, but pre-grated Parmesan works well too if you’re in a pinch.
Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the garlic butter in advance lets the flavors meld beautifully. Just give it a quick warm-up before brushing it on grilled corn to bring back that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, the Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn Recipe is not spicy by default. However, you can add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter if you like a little heat.
Do I need to peel all the husks before grilling?
Leaving one layer of husks acts like natural insulation, protecting the kernels from burning while allowing steam to gently cook the corn. Removing just the silk and folding the husks back is the perfect balance.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when I want to impress without fuss. Its harmonious blend of smoky, garlicky, cheesy flavors brings out the best in simple corn, making it a crowd-pleaser at every meal. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll keep coming back to this recipe again and again.
Print
Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn recipe transforms fresh corn on the cob into a flavorful and savory treat with a luscious garlic butter glaze, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Grilled to perfection, the corn is tender with a smoky char, enhanced by the rich and aromatic garlic butter and the nutty Parmesan topping. Perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or any outdoor meal.
Ingredients
Produce
- 4 fresh corn ears
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced or grated
- Chopped fresh parsley (to taste)
Dairy
- 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter
- 1 ounce (28 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
Pantry
- A pinch of salt
- Black pepper to taste, freshly ground
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to a medium-high temperature between 350-400˚F to prepare for cooking the corn evenly and developing a smoky flavor.
- Prepare the Corn: Peel away most of the husks from the corn, leaving the inner layer intact. Fold the husks back to remove the silk completely, then fold the husks over the corn ears again to protect the kernels during grilling.
- Grill the Corn: Place the prepared corn on the preheated grill. Turn the ears occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and develop a vibrant yellow color with light charring over about 15-20 minutes.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small, heat-resistant bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir in the minced garlic along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to create a flavorful butter mixture.
- Finish the Corn: After grilling, remove the remaining husks completely from the corn. While the corn is still hot, brush generously with the garlic butter mixture, then sprinkle evenly with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for added taste and color.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Parmesan garlic grilled corn immediately to enjoy its best flavor and warmth as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice over the corn before serving.
- If you do not have a grill, this recipe can be adapted for a grill pan on the stovetop or roasted in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- If preferred, substitute Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Use fresh garlic rather than garlic powder to maximize the garlic flavor in the butter.
- Be sure to turn the corn regularly during grilling to avoid uneven cooking or burning.
