Garlic Butter Corn

Name: Garlic Butter Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ears of fresh corn (or 3 cups frozen corn); 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love the combination of sweet corn with rich garlic butter. It’s a dish that not only elevates simple meals but also adds a touch of gourmet flair to any occasion. Whenever I serve it, the vibrant yellow corn glistening with buttery goodness keeps everyone coming back for more. The aroma that fills my kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible, making it one of my go-to side dishes. Whether it’s summer barbeques or winter dinners, this Garlic Butter Corn recipe never fails to impress my family and friends.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:37:35.418Z

When I first tried making Garlic Butter Corn, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such a flavorful dish. I realized that the key is using good quality butter and fresh garlic to really enhance the sweetness of the corn. Cooking the garlic until fragrant but not burnt is a crucial step!

This dish always reminds me of sunny days spent at family picnics. I sometimes add a sprinkle of paprika for an extra kick. It’s become a favorite among my loved ones, and I can always count on it to brighten up any meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet corn perfectly coated in rich garlic butter
A quick and easy side dish everyone will rave about
Versatile enough to pair with any main dish

Choosing the Right Corn

When selecting corn for this Garlic Butter Corn recipe, freshness is key, especially if you’re using whole ears. Look for corn that has tightly sealed husks, bright green, and slightly moist silk. Fresh kernels should be plump, milky, and sweet when bitten into. If you opt for frozen corn, choose a high-quality brand with no added ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture in your dish. The sweetness of the corn, whether fresh or frozen, is what makes this side so delightful.

Cooking time can vary slightly depending on the corn you choose. Fresh corn will typically require about 5-7 minutes to become tender when sautéed, whereas frozen corn might need a bit longer to warm through and become tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent any kernels from browning too much; you want to achieve a vibrant, glossy finish.

Mastering Garlic Butter

The garlic butter is the star of this dish, and getting it just right enhances the overall flavor profile. Use unsalted butter as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better. When melting the butter, keep the heat at medium to avoid scorching the garlic. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to foam slightly, and the aroma of the garlic fills your kitchen. Cook the garlic precisely for 1-2 minutes; if it turns brown, it may become bitter, which could overpower the sweetness of the corn.

For an extra punch, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. This addition provides a mild heat that complements the dish beautifully, elevating the flavor complexity without overshadowing the garlic or corn. If you're feeling adventurous, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten the dish even further.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this savory Garlic Butter Corn:

Ingredients

4 ears of fresh corn (or 3 cups frozen corn)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Garlic Butter Corn:

Prepare the Corn

If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and remove the silk. Cut the kernels off the cob and set aside. If using frozen corn, thaw it and drain any excess water.

Melt the Butter and Cook the Garlic

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

Combine and Season

Add the corn to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is tender and heated through.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Corn!

Enjoy your Garlic Butter Corn as a perfect side dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Corn pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile side for any meal. It’s particularly delightful alongside grilled chicken or steak, as the buttery sweetness of the corn beautifully complements the savory flavors of grilled meats. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad or as a topping on tacos for a unique twist.

For a fun twist, consider mixing in other seasonal veggies like diced bell peppers or zucchini. These can be sautéed with the corn for a colorful, nutritious side. Additionally, cheese lovers might enjoy adding crumbled feta or grated Parmesan for a creamy, indulgent touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional butter to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through, which should take about 5 minutes. Avoid using a microwave as it can make the corn rubbery if heated too quickly.

For longer storage, Garlic Butter Corn can be frozen. Portion it into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible, and label it with the date. It’s best to use frozen corn within 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove, following the same gentle process to maintain texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure it's thawed and drained before cooking.

→ How do I store leftover Garlic Butter Corn?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, and you can enjoy a vegan version of Garlic Butter Corn.

→ What meals pair well with Garlic Butter Corn?

This savory corn dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or even alongside a fresh salad.