Garlic Butter Corn

Name: Garlic Butter Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of fresh corn kernels (or 2 cans of corn); 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Favorites

I love whipping up this Garlic Butter Corn as a quick and delicious side dish that complements so many meals. The combination of sweet corn with rich, garlicky butter creates a flavor explosion that I can't resist. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. I often find myself adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:41:36.565Z

During one of my kitchen experiments, I decided to enhance my usual corn-on-the-cob recipe. By adding garlic and butter, I transformed it into a vibrant and delicious side dish that everyone loved. The method is straightforward: sautéing the garlic before adding the corn allows the flavors to infuse perfectly. I was amazed at how something so simple could elevate the dish!

One tip that I learned is to use fresh corn for the best sweetness. I often choose to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce a little heat. Mixing in freshly chopped parsley right before serving elevates the dish visually and adds a burst of flavor. Give it a try, you won’t regret it!

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Corn
Sweet corn perfectly coated in rich, garlicky butter
Simple ingredients come together for an unforgettable flavor
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy meals

The Importance of Fresh Corn

Using fresh corn kernels elevates your Garlic Butter Corn dish significantly. Fresh corn brings a natural sweetness and crunch that canned corn simply can't replicate. When choosing fresh corn, look for bright green husks with moist silks. Each ear should feel heavy and full. If using frozen corn, opt for a quality brand to ensure a similar flavor profile and texture. Quick thawing in cold water for about 10-15 minutes will help retain that pop when cooked.

If you find yourself without fresh corn or frozen options, canned corn works in a pinch. Just ensure to drain and rinse it well to remove excess sodium. Remember, canned corn is already cooked, so you'll need to adjust cooking time to about 3-4 minutes, just enough to heat through and meld with the garlicky butter.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Garnishing your Garlic Butter Corn with fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and an herbal note that rounds out the richness of the butter. You can also experiment with other herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor twist. For maximum freshness, chop your herbs last minute to retain their bright color and flavor. A light sprinkle right before serving makes all the difference.

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will give your dish a subtle kick that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the corn. If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can add a delightful zesty brightness to the final dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store your Garlic Butter Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to bring it back to life. This will help retain the corn's texture. If it appears dry, added a splash of water or broth can help rehydrate it during reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing your Garlic Butter Corn. Portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. Keep in mind that while the flavor remains intact, the texture may soften slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Corn

4 cups of fresh corn kernels (or 2 cans of corn)
4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
4 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

Add Corn

Stir in the corn kernels and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is tender and heated through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.

Pro Tips

For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. Serve with grilled meats or as part of a summer barbecue for an exceptional side dish.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the garlic just until fragrant is crucial for this recipe. Overcooking can lead to a bitter flavor that overshadows the sweetness of the corn. Remember, you want that golden hue, signaling it's ready for the corn to be added. A stainless steel skillet works great to ensure even heat distribution and can help in achieving that nice sear on the garlic.

When stirring in the corn, aim for an even coating of the butter mixture. This ensures that every kernel absorbs the garlicky flavor. Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the skillet every now and then to pick up any caramelization that adds depth to the flavor. This technique enhances the overall taste and gives your dish an incredible, rich quality.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this Garlic Butter Corn recipe is quite simple. If you’re cooking for a crowd, just double or triple the quantities, and keep your skillet large enough to accommodate the increased volume. A wide, shallow sauté pan is preferable as it promotes even cooking and browning of the garlic and corn.

For smaller portions, you can easily halve the recipe. A small non-stick skillet is perfect for small batches, ensuring each kernel gets the same buttery treatment. Keep an eye on cooking time, reducing it slightly for smaller amounts, so the garlic doesn’t burn while you wait for the corn to cook.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well! Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the skillet.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute and it will be just as delicious!

→ What other herbs can I use for garnishing?

You can use basil, chives, or even cilantro for a different flavor profile.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat when ready to serve.