Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob – Easy Summer BBQ Favorite

A Summer Classic with a Cheesy Twist

There’s something utterly magical about biting into juicy, sweet corn grilled to golden perfection — especially when it’s slathered in a rich, garlicky butter and sprinkled with savory Parmesan. I can still picture my Nonna flipping Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob over the backyard grill with her trusty tongs, wearing her garden apron and humming Sinatra tunes. That scent of charred husk, melted butter, and cheese drifting through the summer air was the signal that the cookout feast was about to begin.

If you’re looking to bring that same sunshine-soaked joy to your own table, this Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob is your ticket. It’s buttery, cheesy, slightly smoky, and just salty enough to make you reach for seconds — or thirds. Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob isn’t just a summer side dish; it’s the star of the backyard table. And let’s be honest, what’s a backyard BBQ without a show-stopping Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob on the menu? Serve it once, and it’ll be your signature summer recipe forever.

Why This Recipe Works

This is not your average corn on the cob — this is Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob in all its cheesy, buttery glory. It’s a full-flavored summer side dish that checks all the boxes:

• Flavor Bomb: The mix of roasted garlic, melted butter, and Parmesan brings big, bold taste to every bite of Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob.
• Textural Perfection: You get that dreamy mix of crisp, charred corn kernels and melty cheese layered over tender sweet corn.
• Versatile & Easy: Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob is perfect for summer BBQs, weekday dinners, potlucks, and even that one friend who’s always on a gluten-free kick.

Whether you’re serving grilled burgers or veggie skewers, this is the kind of crowd-pleasing corn that deserves the spotlight. And if you’re planning a cookout menu, be sure to follow more summer favorites and kitchen-tested recipes on our Facebook page and explore tasty inspiration and fresh meal ideas on our Pinterest profile.

Ingredient Notes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob sing:

Ingredient	Notes
Fresh sweet corn	Look for bright green husks and plump kernels — the fresher, the sweeter
Butter (unsalted)	The base for your garlic butter — adjust salt to taste
Garlic	Minced fresh or roasted garlic is best, garlic powder works too
Shredded Parmesan cheese	Use freshly grated for best melt and flavor
Olive oil (optional)	Helps with even grilling if you’re not wrapping the corn
Kosher salt & pepper	Classic seasoning to balance the sweetness
Fresh parsley (optional)	Adds a pop of color and herbal brightness

Substitutes:

• Vegan butter for a dairy-free version
• Pecorino Romano or a Parmesan blend for a saltier kick

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn

Step 1: Prep Your Grill & Corn

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can grill corn in the husk, with husks removed, or wrapped in foil. Each method yields slightly different results:

• Husk-on gives a gentle steam, then a final char once peeled
• Foil-wrapped retains moisture but softens texture
• Bare corn over direct flame offers deep char and smoky flavor (our favorite)

Peel back husks without removing them if using husk-on method, and remove the silk.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter and stir in:

• 2–3 cloves of minced garlic or 1 tsp garlic powder
• A pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper

Let it gently simmer for 2–3 minutes to infuse.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Brush corn generously with garlic butter, then grill for 10–12 minutes, turning every 3 minutes to get even char. For extra flavor, baste with more butter mid-way.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan

While the corn is still hot off the grill, shower it with shredded Parmesan. It will melt slightly, sticking to the buttery surface. For an elegant touch, garnish with chopped parsley and a dash more black pepper.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot, and don’t be surprised if people ask for your secret. (Hint: it’s all in that garlic butter!)

Grilling Tips:

• Soak corn (husks on) for 15 minutes if using open flame to prevent burning.
• Rotate often for even grilling and a good balance of char and sweetness.
• Use a silicone brush for easy butter application.

Expert Tips

• Flavor Pop: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the garlic butter for heat.
• Zesty Finish: Squeeze a little lime juice over the corn just before serving.
• Party Prep: Make garlic butter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Recipe FAQs

Related Recipes

Want more corn love?

• Try this bold and creamy Mexican Street Corn for another grilled corn twist
• Serve alongside these Garlic Herb Roasted Veggies for a full-flavored summer plate
• Complement your corn with this easy and smoky Grilled Zucchini recipe

Comments Section

Have a favorite way to season your Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn on the Cob? Maybe you tossed in chili flakes, a splash of lime juice, or a dusting of lemon zest for that extra zing? 🌽✨
Tell us how you made this summer side dish your own in the comments below — we love seeing your flavorful twists!

Follow more summer favorites and kitchen-tested recipes on our Facebook page
Explore tasty inspiration and fresh meal ideas on our Pinterest profile
Browse our Summer Veggie Recipes board for more fresh and colorful dishes

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