Grilled corn on the cob with char marks, topped with melting herb butter and garnished with fresh parsley, served on a wooden platter with lemon wedges and a bowl of herb butter.

Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

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Smoky, Sweet, and Slathered in Fresh Flavor

Nothing says summer like grilled corn on the cob, hot off the grill and dripping with melted herb butter. This simple side dish takes minutes to prepare and delivers big on smoky, buttery flavor — perfect for cookouts, family dinners, or casual weekends in the backyard.

Why You’ll Love It

  • 🌽 Classic summer side – Perfect for pairing with burgers, ribs, or grilled veggies

  • 🔥 Charred to perfection – Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the corn

  • 🧈 Flavor-packed butter – A blend of fresh herbs adds bright, savory flavor

  • ⏱️ Quick & easy – From grill to table in under 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Corn:

  • 4–6 ears of fresh corn, husks removed

  • Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Herb Butter:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives or green onion tops, finely chopped

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or basil, chopped (optional)

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove, minced

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Herb Butter

    • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with herbs, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using.

    • Spoon onto plastic wrap, roll into a log, and chill until firm, or keep soft for immediate use.

  2. Grill the Corn

    • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

    • Brush corn lightly with olive oil or melted butter and season with salt and pepper.

    • Place corn directly on the grill grates.

    • Grill, turning every few minutes, until corn is lightly charred and tender (8–10 minutes total).

  3. Serve with Herb Butter

    • Remove corn from grill and immediately slather with the herb butter while hot.

    • Garnish with extra chopped herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • Want extra char? Grill corn longer without foil for deep grill marks.

  • Foil method: Wrap corn in foil for softer kernels and steam-cooked flavor.

  • Add cheese: Top with crumbled feta, cotija, or parmesan for a twist.

  • Spicy kick: Mix chili flakes or hot sauce into the butter for heat.

Final Thoughts

Grilled corn is a summer staple, and adding herb butter elevates it from simple to sensational. It’s the kind of side dish that disappears fast, so make a few extra ears—you’ll be glad you did. Whether it’s the star of your backyard BBQ or a supporting player to grilled meats, this Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter is pure summer on a plate.

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