Classic Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Looking for the best corn on the cob recipe? My easy grilled corn with herb butter is bursting with flavor—perfect for your summer gatherings!

Get Ready for the Best Corn on the Cob Recipe
Oh my gosh, have you ever sunk your teeth into juicy, buttery corn on the cob? it’s like summer on a stick! this corn on the cob recipe is not just any recipe; it’s a classic grilled corn on the cob with herb butter that’ll have everyone at your barbecue clamoring for seconds.
The mix of sweet corn and herbaceous, creamy butter is a flavor combo you’ve got to experience. trust me, it’s a winner!
Let’s talk tradition this dish is as classic as apple pie at a fourth of july cookout. grilled corn on the cob has deep roots in american summer traditions, and it’s become a must-have at picnics, street fairs, and backyard gatherings.
It’s super easy and takes about 25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for those last-minute cravings! you’ll whip up enough to serve 4, making it spot on for a family feast.
Why you’ll love it you won't just be savoring a delicious ear of corn. this recipe is packed with nutrients, keeping things healthy while you enjoy your summer shindig.
Plus, it’s great for any occasion—picnics, barbecues, or even a cozy night on the porch. this dish brings people together, and you’ll leave everyone smiling and satisfied.
Seriously, what could be better?
Now, you may be wondering if it’s difficult. honestly, if you can boil water or fire up a grill, you’ve got this! even if you’re new to the cooking game, this corn on the cob recipe is straightforward.
Before we look into in when i first tried my hand at this, i made the rookie mistake of overcooking the corn.
Yikes! but with a little patience, i mastered the timing. the key is to watch those beautiful golden marks as you grill.
And don't forget the butter bath corn on the cob method—it's a game changer!
So grab your ears of corn and get ready to rock this recipe. you’ll be just moments away from indulging in the tastiest bite of summer bliss.
Let’s check out what you’ll need to make this happen!
Classic Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized fresh corn on the cob, husked (approx. 1 kg)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
- Salt, to taste
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick or 113 g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (30 g)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (15 g)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5 g)
- Juice of ½ lemon (about 15 ml)
- Black pepper, to taste
🥄 Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C).
- Prepare the Corn: Husk the corn and remove the silk. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
- Season the Corn: Brush each corn with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
- Grill the Corn: Place corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every few minutes until charred and tender.
- Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, parsley, chives, garlic powder, lemon juice, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Serve: Remove corn from the grill and slather with herb butter right before serving. Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Ingredients & Equipment for Classic Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Ah, corn on the cob —the epitome of summer food, right? whether you're firing up the grill or diving into corn boiled in milk and butter , this dish never gets old.
Let’s break down the essentials so you can tackle this classic grilled corn on the cob with herb butter like a pro!
Main Ingredients
For the Corn:
- 4 medium-sized fresh corn on the cob, husked (approx. 1 kg )
- 2 tablespoons olive oil ( 30 ml )
- Salt , to taste
For the Herb Butter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (that’s 1 stick or 113 g )
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped ( 30 g )
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped ( 15 g )
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder ( 5 g )
- Juice of ½ lemon (about 15 ml )
- Black pepper , to taste
When picking your corn, look for bright green husks and plump kernels —the fresher, the better!
Seasoning Notes
Here’s where you can elevate your corn on the cob recipe into something downright spectacular. that herb butter? it’s a game-changer.
The fresh herbs make all the difference. if you’re out of fresh herbs and in a pinch, dried ones can work, just use about a third of what the recipe calls for.
If you want that little extra zing, sprinkle in chili powder or paprika for a spicy corn treat. Or switch it up and blend in some grated cheese for that cheesy vibe.
Equipment Needed
Now, let’s talk gear. You don’t need much to get this going:
- Grill (whether it’s charcoal, gas, or even a stovetop grill)
- Basting brush —your best friend for that olive oil rubdown.
- A small bowl for mixing that herb butter.
- A piece of foil can be handy, especially for easy cleanup or if you want to try wrapping the corn for a different texture.
You’re all set with these simple tools! If you don’t have a grill, you can even make this corn on the cob in a Crock Pot for a no-fuss approach.
The Final Scoop
So there you have it! with just a few fresh ingredients and some handy tools, you’re ready to make the best boiled corn on the cob recipe or throw it on the grill for a smoky delight.
Whichever way you go, this dish is bound to impress. perfect for summer barbecues or cozy nights at home! look into in, enjoy the fresh flavors, and don’t forget to get your hands all buttery.
Trust me, it's part of the fun!

Cooking Method
Prep Steps
Let’s kick things off with some essential mise en place . grab your fresh corn on the cob, olive oil, and all those herb butter ingredients.
having everything ready makes cooking way smoother, trust me! it’s like a mini dance party in your kitchen.
Time-saving organization tips? heck yeah! soak your corn for about 10- 15 minutes in cold water before grilling.
It helps retain moisture and brings out that sweet flavor. plus, if you prep the herb butter ahead of time and keep it in the fridge, it’ll be ready to slather right on your hot corn.
And let’s not forget about safety. if you’re grilling, remember to keep a close eye on the flames. also, don’t burn yourself while handling those hot cobs.
You’d think i learned that the easy way, but no. ouch!
Step-by-Step Process
- Preheat the Grill: Heat that bad boy to medium-high, about 400° F ( 200° C) . We want it hot for that glorious char.
- Prepare the Corn: Husk those beauties and rinse under cold water, then dry them off. Simple!
- Season the Corn: Brush each cob with olive oil and sprinkle salt like you’re a fancy chef. It really elevates things!
- Grill the Corn: Toss the corn right on the grill. Cook for 10- 15 minutes , turning every few minutes until you see those beautiful char marks. Aim for golden brown.
- Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, fresh parsley, chives, garlic powder, lemon juice, and black pepper. It’s like a flavor party!
- Serve: Take that grilled corn off the heat and spread it with that dreamy herb butter. Garnish with extra herbs if you’re feeling fancy.
Pro Tips
Okay, let’s drop some expert techniques here! try soaking the corn before you grill it to keep it extra juicy.
You can even poke a bit of chili powder into the herb butter for a wicked kick – or go all in with the jalapeño corn on the cob vibe!
Common mistakes? overcooking is a big one! keep track of that timer. 10- 15 minutes max . personally, i’ve turned some lovely cobs into rubbery sad things by forgetting about them – and it’s not a good look.
Looking to plan ahead? Absolutely! You can whip up that Corn Boiled in Milk and Butter mix the day before. Just warm it up when you’re ready to serve.
So there you have it! this delicious classic grilled corn on the cob recipe is easy, flavorful, and oh-so-fun to make.
You’ll be dreaming of summer cookouts all year long. happy grilling, friends! 🍽️
Recipe Notes for Your Classic Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Serving Suggestions
When you’re ready to dive into that corn on the cob recipe , let's make the presentation pop! serve it up on a nice platter with some fresh herbs sprinkled on top.
It’s like a little green confetti! you can also pair it with grilled sausages. trust me, the smoky flavors jive beautifully.
Feeling fancy? try adding a chilled glass of lemonade or a crisp white wine like sauvignon blanc while you’re at it.
It makes the meal more refreshing, especially on a hot summer day. oh, and let’s not forget a side of fresh cucumber and tomato salad—super light and full of crunch!
Storage Tips
Now, if you happen to have leftovers (which is kind of a miracle), you can store that glorious corn in the fridge.
Just wrap it tightly in foil or put it in an airtight container. it’ll be good for about 3 days .
Wanna freeze it? you can, but there’s a trick! cut the kernels off the cob after grilling, and pack them in a freezer bag.
Make sure to squeeze out all the air—nobody likes freezer burn! when you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pull it out and reheat using your favorite method.
I usually toss mine in a skillet over medium heat.
Variations
If you’re looking for some twists, i’ve got your back. for a spicy kick , try out jalapeño corn on the cob by adding some diced jalapeños to that herb butter.
It’ll light your taste buds on fire—in the best way, of course!
You can also go seasonal—swap out that herb butter for a coconut lime spread in the summer. just combine coconut butter, fresh lime juice, and cilantro.
It’s like a mini tropical vacation right on your plate.
Nutrition Basics
Alright, let's break it down simply. a corn cob packs about 210 calories , mostly from that buttery goodness. you’ve also got fiber, which is great for your digestion, and some vitamins too.
Just keep in mind that butter is still a fat source, so use it wisely. but hey, indulging every now and then is totally fine!
In a nutshell, this corn on the cob recipe isn't just tasty; it's got some healthy perks attached too. So go on, treat yourself to this delightful summer side.
Conclusion
Whether you’re prepping for a backyard bbq or just craving some delicious grilled corn, this recipe is the way to go.
With those easy serving suggestions, storage tips, and fun variations, your classic grilled corn on the cob with herb butter will not only impress but also ensure you savor every single bite.
So fire up that grill and enjoy the sunny vibes!

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to grill corn on the cob?
The best way to grill corn on the cob is by preheating your grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C) and cooking the corn directly on the grates. Turn them every few minutes until they are charred and tender, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. For added moisture and sweetness, you might soak the corn in water beforehand!
How can I make my corn on the cob recipe more flavorful?
Adding an herb butter is a fantastic way to amp up flavor in your corn on the cob recipe! You can mix softened unsalted butter with fresh herbs, garlic powder, lemon juice, and pepper. For a twist, you could also sprinkle cheese on top or mix in some chili powder for a spicy kick!
Can I prepare corn on the cob in advance, or does it need to be served immediately?
While grilled corn is best served immediately for maximum sweetness and tenderness, you can prepare it in advance and store the cooked corn wrapped in foil in the fridge. Just reheat it briefly on the grill or in the oven before serving, and slather on that herb butter just before eating!
What's the nutritional value of a corn on the cob?
A medium-sized corn on the cob typically contains around 210 calories, along with 3g of protein, 19g of fat, and 12g of carbohydrates. While delicious, remember that butter and additional toppings can significantly alter those values. It’s a fun addition to a balanced meal, especially in the summer!
How should I store leftover corn on the cob?
If you have leftover corn on the cob, allow it to cool and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last 3 to 5 days. Reheat before serving, and for best results, grill or sauté it again for that smoky flavour.
What are some creative variations for corn on the cob?
You can get quite adventurous with corn on the cob! Try a spicy version by adding chili powder to your herb butter, or go for a tropical twist with coconut butter and lime juice. For a cheesy delight, sprinkle some grated Parmesan just before serving—it’s perfect for impressing your mates at a barbecue!
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