Introduction
Imagine taking a bite of sweet and juicy corn on the cob, perfectly grilled and slathered in a mouthwatering combination of cheesy garlic butter. The flavors meld together, creating a delightful explosion in your mouth. Cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob is a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that is sure to elevate any summer gathering or backyard barbecue. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable treat. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time. Additionally, the combination of cheesy and garlicky flavors adds a delightful twist to the classic corn on the cob. The cheesy garlic butter creates a creamy and savory coating that takes this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Lastly, this recipe can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or following a gluten-free diet, we’ve got you covered with some simple ingredient swaps. So, let’s dive into the ingredients!
Ingredients
To make this cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredient substitutions:
- If you prefer a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, feel free to use that instead of Parmesan.
- For a vegan version, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based spread and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
- If fresh corn is not available, you can use frozen corn on the cob. Just make sure to thaw it before grilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated.
- Place the husked corn on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The corn should be lightly charred and tender.
- Using a basting brush or spoon, generously spread the cheesy garlic butter mixture all over the grilled corn.
- Allow the corn to sit for a minute or two to allow the butter to melt and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob immediately and enjoy!
Pro tip: To add an extra layer of flavor, you can squeeze some fresh lime juice over the corn just before serving. The tanginess of the lime pairs perfectly with the cheesy and garlicky flavors.
Expert Tips for Success
To ensure the best results and maximum flavor, here are some expert tips:
- Soak the corn in water for 10-15 minutes before grilling. This helps prevent the husks from burning and keeps the corn moist.
- For an even cheesier experience, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top of the corn after brushing it with the butter mixture.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the corn on the cob in the oven. Simply wrap each ear of corn in aluminum foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the corn on the cob in the microwave or on the grill before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
While this cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob recipe is already delicious as is, you can get creative and customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
1. Mexican Street Corn: After grilling the corn, brush it with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
2. Herb-Infused Butter: Add additional herbs to the butter mixture, such as thyme, rosemary, or basil, to create a unique flavor profile.
3. Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and sprinkle the corn with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
4. Smoky BBQ Corn: Instead of grilling the corn, you can roast it in the oven and brush it with your favorite smoky barbecue sauce.
Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make this recipe your own!
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob is a versatile dish that pairs well with various main courses and side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to complement this delicious treat:
1. Grilled meats: Serve the corn alongside grilled steak, chicken, or shrimp for a complete and satisfying meal.
2. Summer salads: Pair the corn with a refreshing summer salad, such as a tomato and cucumber salad or a watermelon feta salad.
3. Baked potatoes: Enjoy the corn with some fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream, chives, and bacon bits.
4. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Quench your thirst with a glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing summer beverage.
Get creative and explore different combinations to find your perfect match!
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn on the cob?
A: While fresh corn on the cob is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned corn as a substitute. Simply drain the canned corn before grilling or roasting.
Q: Can I make the cheesy garlic butter mixture in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before using to ensure easy spreading.
Q: Can I freeze leftover cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob?
A: It is not recommended to freeze the corn on the cob once it has been coated with the butter mixture. The texture and quality may be compromised upon thawing and reheating.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob is a truly irresistible dish that will elevate your summer gatherings and barbecue parties. The combination of sweet corn, creamy butter, and savory cheese creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds wanting more. With its easy preparation and customizable options, this recipe is a winner for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. So go ahead, fire up the grill, and treat yourself to this delectable summer delight. Don’t forget to share your cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob experience with us!
CHEESY GARLIC BUTTER CORN ON THE COB
Sweet and juicy corn on the cob grilled to perfection and slathered in a mouthwatering cheesy garlic butter mixture. This dish is easy to make and promises a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated.
- Place the husked corn on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The corn should be lightly charred and tender.
- Using a basting brush or spoon, generously spread the cheesy garlic butter mixture all over the grilled corn.
- Allow the corn to sit for a minute or two to allow the butter to melt and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
