Name: Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn, husked; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn is a flavorful twist on the classic grilled corn on the cob. This recipe takes tender corn, chars it on the grill for a smoky flavor, and coats it with a savory garlic butter and grated Parmesan cheese for a bold, cheesy finish. It’s a perfect summer side dish that’s both simple and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn recipe combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the rich, umami flavor of Parmesan cheese and the depth of garlic butter. It’s easy to prepare, ideal for barbecues and outdoor gatherings, and makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats or vegetarian mains. The recipe is also easily customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasonings to your liking or make it spicy.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh corn on the cob, husked
Butter, melted
Garlic, finely minced
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Salt
Black pepper

directions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, mix melted butter and minced garlic together.
Brush the corn cobs with the garlic butter mixture evenly.
Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10–15 minutes, turning every few minutes until the corn is charred and tender.
Remove the corn from the grill and while it’s still hot, sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the garlic butter for a bit of heat.
Mexican-Inspired: Mix in a bit of lime juice and cotija cheese instead of Parmesan for a street-corn-style variation.
Herbaceous: Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a more aromatic profile.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the butter mixture for a deeper, smokier flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, wrap the corn in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, though the texture may be slightly softer.

FAQs

How do I prevent the corn from burning on the grill?

Turn the corn frequently and monitor the heat to ensure even charring without burning.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, thawed frozen corn cobs can be used, but fresh corn offers the best texture and flavor.

What type of Parmesan cheese is best?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields the best flavor and melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

Can I grill the corn in foil?

Yes, wrapping the corn in foil helps retain moisture and reduces charring, but you’ll miss out on the smoky grill marks.

Is it necessary to boil the corn before grilling?

Boiling is not required; grilling raw corn enhances its natural sweetness and gives it a better texture.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free butter substitute and a vegan Parmesan alternative.

Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?

Yes, garlic butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What other toppings can I use?

Try adding crumbled feta, blue cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.

How do I make this recipe in the oven?

Roast the corn in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally, then brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with cheese.

What main dishes go well with this corn?

It pairs well with grilled meats like steak or chicken, BBQ ribs, burgers, or even vegetarian dishes like grilled portobello mushrooms.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn is a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish that’s perfect for summer meals and outdoor gatherings. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can elevate your corn on the cob to a whole new level. Try out the variations, and enjoy this cheesy, garlicky treat fresh off the grill