Name: Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn, husked; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish); Baking dish or large skillet; Basting brush; Foil (if baking)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a backyard classic with a gooey, irresistible twist, Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is about to become your new go-to! Sweet summer corn gets roasted or grilled, slathered in a dreamy garlic butter, then draped with melty mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of parsley that honestly makes it look almost too good to eat. Whether you’re planning a barbecue or just looking to jazz up your weeknight meal, this recipe turns everyday corn into an unforgettable show-stopper with the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and just a touch of smokiness.

Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob lies in its simplicity—each ingredient packs a punch and works in perfect harmony to make every bite sensationally gooey, aromatic, and golden. Let’s break down why each one is a must!

Corn on the cob (4 ears): Fresh husked corn brings sweetness and crunch; always pick plump, bright green husks for juiciest results!
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): The foundation for our rich garlic butter; use unsalted to control flavor balance.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Just the right amount of garlicky punch—fresh, never pre-minced, is best for ultra-flavorful butter.
Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle smoky depth and a hint of paprika warmth that makes this corn irresistible.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the natural sweetness in the corn and rounding out the butter.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A hint of sharpness to balance the richness of butter and cheese.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups): Melts beautifully for that signature cheesy stretch—go for whole milk mozzarella for best results!
Chopped parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A fresh sprinkle over the top finishes your Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob with color and a pop of herbiness.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

Start off by melting your butter and stirring in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This fragrant mixture will be your secret weapon for infusing every layer of corn with flavor. Take a moment to savor that buttery, garlicky aroma—it sets the tone for how amazing this recipe will taste!

Step 2: Butter Up the Corn

Arrange your husked corn in a baking dish if using the oven, or directly onto the grill if you’re igniting some outdoor magic. Using a basting brush, slather each ear generously with the garlic butter. Don’t skimp! Every side of the corn should be glistening and well-coated to ensure the flavors soak in with every turn.

Step 3: Roast or Grill

Roast in a 400°F (200°C) oven or grill, turning the cobs occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn plump and golden, with just a few charred spots for that perfect hint of smokiness. This is where Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob starts truly coming to life.

Step 4: Get Cheesy

Once your corn is hot and beautifully roasted, pile on that shredded mozzarella cheese. Pop them back in the oven for two to three minutes (or cover the grill) just until the cheese melts and turns bubbly. There’s something magical about the moment when the cheese starts to ooze and hug every kernel!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob with a scattering of vibrant chopped parsley for freshness. Serve immediately while the cheese is at its meltiest and the butter is still dripping down the sides—it’s a feast for both your eyes and your taste buds.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob

Garnishes

Nothing finishes off Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob quite like a shower of fresh, chopped parsley, but you can take it further—try a dusting of grated parmesan or a dash more smoked paprika to make each cob pop. Lemon wedges on the side are a surprisingly refreshing touch that brings out all those savory, cheesy flavors.

Side Dishes

This corn is a natural star at cookouts, pairing perfectly with barbecue chicken, grilled burgers, or a big, fresh salad. It also plays well alongside creamy coleslaw, tangy baked beans, or roasted potato wedges. No matter the occasion, it brightens up any plate and always wins over guests—kids and adults alike!

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful by serving Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob sliced into “mini” cobs or even cutting the kernels off the cob and mixing them into a cheesy corn salad. For parties, thread shorter cob pieces onto skewers; they’re perfect for dipping and sharing. Stack your corn high on a colorful platter for a presentation that’s as vivid as the flavors inside!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob, let the cobs cool completely, then wrap each tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The butter and cheese will keep the corn moist and flavorful, so reheated leftovers are just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

If you’re prepping in advance, let the cooked and cooled cobs chill before wrapping in foil or freezer bags. This locks in freshness and flavor. Freeze for up to two months, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the tastiest results!

Reheating

To bring your Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob back to life, just place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, the microwave works in a pinch—cover the cob with a damp paper towel and reheat in 30-second bursts.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn on the cob instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen corn on the cob works beautifully for Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob. Just thaw and pat dry before brushing with garlic butter and roasting or grilling as directed.

What’s the best way to get that perfect cheesy melt?

Use freshly shredded whole milk mozzarella and make sure your corn is piping hot before sprinkling the cheese. Tent with foil or pop it back in a hot oven for a couple of minutes to get that dreamy, stretchy melt.

Can I make this recipe dairy free?

Yes, you can swap in vegan butter and your favorite dairy-free cheese shreds. The results will still be delicious and melty, although the flavor will be slightly different.

Is there a way to make this spicier?

If you love heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter kicks things up nicely! You can also drizzle with hot sauce before serving for an extra punch.

How do I make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob for a crowd?

Simply double or triple the recipe ingredients and bake the cobs in a large roasting pan or arrange on the grill in batches. Keep completed cobs warm in a low oven until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Once you try Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob, you might never want plain corn again. With its buttery richness, savory garlic, and irresistible cheese, it’s truly a reason to gather around the table. I hope you have as much fun making and sharing this recipe as I do—don’t wait for a special occasion, just dig in and enjoy every bite!

Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob. This simple yet decadent recipe elevates classic corn on the cob with a savory garlic butter blend and gooey melted mozzarella cheese.

Instructions

Preheat oven or grill to 400°F (200°C). If using a skillet, preheat over medium heat.
Mix melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Place the corn in a baking dish or on the grill. Brush generously with garlic butter on all sides.
Roast or grill the corn for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and tender.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the hot corn and return to the oven or cover to melt the cheese for 2–3 minutes.
Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking, Grilling
Cuisine: American