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 sweet corn, husked and cleaned; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Plates

When I first tried this garlic butter corn recipe, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it turned out. The buttery richness combined with the fresh taste of corn makes it a perfect side dish for any meal. I love serving it at barbecues or family dinners, as it always garners rave reviews. The secret lies in the aromatic garlic and a hint of parsley that elevates the dish without overpowering the natural sweetness of the corn. You must give it a try for your next gathering!

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:05:36.899Z

Creating this garlic butter corn dish took me back to summer barbecues where the aroma of buttery corn on the grill filled the air. I quickly realized that even on a weekday, I could bring that same joy into my kitchen with just a few ingredients and a skillet. Each bite bursts with flavor thanks to the garlic, which caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the dish substantially.

What I love most is how fast it comes together. With only 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, it's a last-minute side that's as impressive as it is tasty. I often add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to balance the richness of the butter, and it really takes it to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Rich garlic flavor combined with buttery goodness
Fresh corn sweetness that is impossible to resist

The Importance of Fresh Corn

Using fresh sweet corn is key to achieving the best flavor in this dish. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels. The sweetness intensifies when cooked, creating a delightful contrast with the rich garlic butter. If fresh corn isn't available, you can substitute with frozen corn; just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in your skillet.

Fresh kernels offer a juicy burst on every bite, enhancing the overall texture. To ensure you get the most vibrant flavor, prepare the corn as soon as possible after purchase. If you're buying corn in advance, store it in the refrigerator, ideally in a paper bag to allow it to breathe without losing moisture.

Mastering Garlic Butter Technique

The garlic butter is what elevates this dish, and mastering its preparation is essential. When sautéing mince garlic, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, which can make it bitter. Sauté until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden—this usually takes around 1-2 minutes on medium heat. The heat should be just enough to melt the butter without boiling, as you want a smooth, glossy finish.

If you love more robust garlic flavor, consider adding an extra clove or two. However, if you're serving guests who might prefer a milder taste, try sautéing the garlic for just under a minute. This approach will impart a gentle flavor without overwhelming the dish, allowing the corn's natural sweetness to shine through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Garlic butter corn is incredibly versatile. For a vibrant twist, consider adding diced cherry tomatoes or sautéed bell peppers during the last minute of cooking. This not only boosts the dish's color but also complements the sweet corn with additional layers of flavor. You can also sprinkle some crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese before serving for a creamy finish that pairs beautifully with the butter.

For those interested in making this dish a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. The buttery flavors meld well with a variety of proteins, and it adds a refreshing side that cuts through richness. If you're looking for a low-carb alternative, try replacing corn with zucchini or cauliflower rice, prepared similarly in garlic butter.

Ingredients

For Garlic Butter Corn

4 ears of sweet corn, husked and cleaned
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Mix and match spices to suit your taste!

Instructions

Boil the Corn

In a large pot, fill with water and bring to a boil. Add the corn and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.

Prepare Garlic Butter

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked corn to the skillet and toss well to coat in the garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious garlic butter corn!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time during busy mealtimes, you can pre-cook the corn a day in advance. After boiling, allow the ears to cool, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, you can quickly reheat the corn in the skillet with garlic butter, ensuring a fresh flavor without all the prep work.

If you're preparing this dish for a gathering, consider doubling the recipe. Garlic butter corn is best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep leftovers for up to three days in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of additional butter to restore its creamy texture.

Storage and Freezing

While fresh corn is always best, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit more butter if needed to keep the dish moist.

For longer storage, you can freeze garlic butter corn. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It should maintain its quality for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stove; the flavor will still be delicious, though the texture may change slightly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your garlic butter seems to separate instead of emulsion with the corn, try lowering the heat to allow for a slower integration of ingredients. Mixing in a splash of water or broth can help bring it together for a smoother consistency without overwhelming the flavor.

Sometimes your corn may be undercooked or not sweet enough. If you encounter this issue, simply return the ears to the boiling water for an extra minute or two to achieve optimal tenderness. Sweetness can vary by season—if your corn lacks sweetness, a pinch of sugar added to the garlic butter can enhance the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, frozen corn works well! Just thaw and drain it before using.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute vegan butter for a delicious plant-based version.

→ What spices can I add for more flavor?

You could add cumin or smoked paprika for a different twist.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter in advance and just heat it up when you're ready to add the corn.