Summer is here, and it’s time to grill up some tasty summer recipes! One of my favorites is corn on the cob with cheesy garlic butter. It’s easy to make and always a hit at barbecues.
This dish is loved because it’s simple and flavorful. The mix of garlic and butter on grilled corn is amazing. I’ll show you how to make this delicious side dish for your summer events.
Key Takeaways
- Learn how to make a delicious cheesy garlic butter corn on the cob.
- Discover the secret to grilling perfect corn on the cob every time.
- Get tips on how to customize this recipe to your taste.
- Find out why this dish is a staple at summer barbecues.
- Understand the importance of using fresh ingredients.
Why Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn On The Cob Is a Summer Favorite
Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn On The Cob is a summer favorite for good reason. As summer heats up, its appeal grows. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a flavor that captures summer’s essence.
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
The magic of Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn On The Cob is its perfect blend of flavors. Corn’s natural sweetness meets garlic butter’s savory taste and cheese’s richness. This mix makes it a hit at summer gatherings. Whether grilled, baked, or boiled, it’s always deliciously flavored.
Nutritional Benefits of Corn
Corn is not just tasty; it’s also nutritious. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals like thiamine, folate, and vitamin C. It also has fiber, which is good for your digestive health. Adding it to your summer recipes makes for a nutritious and tasty choice.
With options like grilled corn or oven-baked, Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn On The Cob is versatile. It’s a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy summer’s best.
Gathering Your Ingredients and Tools
To make the perfect Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn On The Cob, start with the right stuff. The best ingredients and tools make a big difference. This summer dish is a hit when you’re well-prepared.
Fresh Corn Selection Tips
Look for fresh corn with green husks and moist stems. The kernels should be plump and tight. Stay away from corn with dry or brown husks.
Choose corn that feels heavy for its size. This means it’s juicy.
Cheese Varieties That Work Best
The cheese you pick can change the flavor of your dish. Use a mix of Parmesan, Cheddar, or Mozzarella for creaminess. Try different cheeses to find your favorite mix.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Butter
Start with soft butter at room temperature. Mix in minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Add chopped herbs like parsley or chives for more flavor.
This garlic butter is great on corn and other dishes too.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Right tools make cooking easier. You need a grill or oven, a sharp knife, and a mixing bowl. Don’t forget a pastry brush for even garlic butter.
Step-by-Step Preparation Process
Let’s explore how to make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn On The Cob. It’s easy and quick. You’ll love this summer treat.
Husking and Cleaning Your Corn
First, husk and clean your corn. Remove the outer husks and silks. Rinse it under cold water to get rid of silk or debris.
Pat the corn dry with a paper towel. This helps it cook evenly and the butter stick better.
Mixing Your Cheesy Garlic Butter
Now, mix your cheesy garlic butter. Use softened butter, minced garlic, grated cheese, and herbs and spices. Good garlic makes a big difference in flavor.
Garlic Preparation Techniques
To prepare garlic, peel and mince the cloves. Use a garlic press or grater for smoothness. Roasting garlic adds extra flavor.
Just slice the top off a whole head of garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes. It should be soft and caramelized.
Incorporating Herbs and Spices
After preparing garlic, add herbs and spices to the butter. Try paprika, chili powder, or parsley. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy.
Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite flavor.
Pre-Cooking Corn Preparation
Before cooking, prepare your corn. Soak it in water for 30 minutes. This keeps it moist and tender.
After soaking, pat it dry with a paper towel. Now, it’s ready for the cheesy garlic butter and cooking.
Cooking Your Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn On The Cob
Now that your corn is ready and buttered, let’s talk about cooking methods. The way you cook it can really change how it tastes and feels.
Grilling Method
Grilling is a great way to cook your corn. It adds a smoky taste that goes well with the butter and garlic. Make sure your grill is hot, but not too hot.
Direct vs. Indirect Heat Techniques
When grilling, you can use direct heat or indirect heat. Direct heat means placing the corn right over the flames. It gives a nice char but you need to turn it often to avoid burning. Indirect heat cooks the corn more evenly, away from the flames.
Timing and Temperature Guide
For the best grilled corn, grill at medium heat for 10-15 minutes. Turn it every 2-3 minutes. It’s done when it’s lightly charred and soft. Make sure it’s at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Oven-Baked Method
Baking in the oven is another good choice. It keeps the corn moist and flavorful. Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Foil-Wrapped Technique
Wrapping the corn in foil before baking steams it. This keeps it moist and tasty. Just wrap each ear in foil and bake for 15-20 minutes.
Open-Roasting Technique
You can also bake the corn without foil. This lets the cheese get brown and bubbly. Place the corn on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is golden.
Stovetop Boiling Method
Boiling is a quick and simple way to cook corn. It helps keep the corn sweet. Fill a big pot with water to cover the corn and boil it.
Boiling vs. Steaming
Boiling is easy, but steaming is healthier. It keeps more nutrients in the corn. You can steam by wrapping the corn in foil and boiling it, or use a steamer basket.
Adding Flavor to the Water
To make the corn even tastier, add garlic, onion, or herbs to the water. This infuses the corn with extra flavors.
Taking Your Corn to the Next Level
Now that you know how to make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn On The Cob, it’s time to get creative. I like to try different herbs and spices to give it a unique twist. A sprinkle of paprika or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can make a big difference.
Pairing cheesy corn with other summer recipes can make your outdoor dining better. Grilled chicken or a fresh salad go great with corn on the cob. For a bigger meal, try it with grilled steak or roasted veggies.
To make your cheesy corn even more special, try using different cheeses or adding diced jalapeños for a kick. The possibilities are endless. You’ll find a variation that becomes your new summer tradition. Whether it’s for a backyard barbecue or a quiet evening at home, cheesy corn is always a hit.
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Grill Method (Recommended):
- Brush each corn cob generously with the garlic butter mixture.
- Grill on medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred.
- Boil Method (Alternative):
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add corn and cook for 5–7 minutes.
- Drain well, then toss the hot corn in the garlic butter mixture.
- Finish & Serve:
- While the corn is still hot, roll it in grated Parmesan cheese to coat evenly.
- Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor.
