When it comes to summer cooking, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly grilled or roasted ear of corn on the cob. It’s a classic picnic staple, a BBQ mainstay, and a simple yet satisfying side dish that can elevate any meal. But let’s be real – plain old buttered corn can get a little, well, boring after a while. That’s why we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering corn on the cob recipes that are sure to spice things up (pun intended!). From smoky and savory to sweet and spicy, these creative takes on a summer staple will inspire you to try something new at your next outdoor gathering or family dinner.
Grilled Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Elevate your backyard barbecue with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines juicy corn on the cob with the savory goodness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred.
4. During the last minute of grilling, brush each ear with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
This classic Mexican street food is a flavorful and vibrant twist on traditional corn on the cob. Fresh ears of corn smothered in creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime juice, and spicy cotija cheese make for a deliciously addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup grated cotija cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and lime juice.
4. Brush melted butter onto grilled corn ears.
5. Slather each ear with the mayonnaise-lime mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Parmesan Herb Roasted Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer BBQs or picnics with this flavorful and easy-to-make side dish! This Parmesan Herb Roasted Corn on the Cob recipe combines the sweetness of corn with the savory goodness of parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the corn ears to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and parsley over the corn, tossing to combine.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the corn ears in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until corn is tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Spiced Corn on the Cob
Add a burst of Cajun flavor to your summer gatherings with this simple and delicious recipe for corn on the cob.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning blend over the corn, ensuring each piece is coated.
5. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until slightly charred.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer BBQs with this mouthwatering twist on classic grilled corn. This sweet and spicy glaze combines the natural sweetness of honey with the bold flavor of sriracha.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Brush the glaze evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Place corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until slightly charred and tender.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, slathered in additional honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lime and Chili Powder Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer barbecues with this zesty and flavorful corn recipe. The combination of lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro adds a bold and refreshing twist to traditional grilled corn.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and chili powder.
3. Brush the corn ears with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
5. Brush the lime-chili mixture evenly onto the grilled corn.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob
Get ready for a sweet and savory twist on classic corn on the cob! This recipe wraps juicy corn in crispy bacon and melted cheese, making it the perfect side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the corn in half and place on a baking sheet.
3. Wrap each piece of corn with 2-3 pieces of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the bacon-wrapped corn.
5. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer BBQ with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of corn with the smokiness of paprika. Perfect for a quick and delicious side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the corn ears to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred and tender.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Butter Corn on the Cob
Elevate your grilling game with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavor of herbs. Perfect for a summer evening or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, and chives until well combined.
3. Place corn ears on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. Brush each ear of corn with the herbed butter mixture during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob
Elevate your grilling game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred and tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer BBQ game with this smoky and spicy twist on classic corn on the cob! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers.
3. Add corn ears to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brown Sugar Glazed Corn on the Cob
This recipe takes classic grilled corn on the cob to a new level with a sticky, sweet, and savory brown sugar glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, butter, garlic, and salt until well combined.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
5. Remove from heat and brush with apple cider vinegar.
6. Serve hot, slathered with additional brown sugar glaze if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Pepper Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer gatherings with this bright and citrusy twist on classic grilled corn on the cob.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup black pepper, finely ground
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Place corn on the cob on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred and tender.
4. During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the lemon butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
5. Sprinkle black pepper and salt to taste.
6. Remove from grill and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Truffle Oil and Sea Salt Corn on the Cob
This simple yet impressive recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn on the cob with the earthy flavor of truffle oil and the savory crunch of sea salt. Perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the corn with the melted butter, making sure to coat each ear evenly.
3. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
4. Remove from grill and brush with truffle oil, allowing it to absorb fully.
5. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the corn, serving immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Barbecue Ranch Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer BBQ with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the tanginess of barbecue ranch seasoning. Perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or backyard cookouts.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup barbecue ranch seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, mix together barbecue ranch seasoning, mayonnaise, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add corn to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the ranch mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred and tender.
6. Serve hot with additional barbecue ranch seasoning on the side (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Corn on the Cob
Add a burst of flavor to your summer grilling with this easy and addictive corn recipe. The combination of juicy corn, zesty lime juice, and spicy jalapeños is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 limes, juiced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, cilantro, and chopped jalapeños.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Corn on the Cob
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with the savory flavors of rosemary and garlic, perfect for a summer BBQ or family dinner. With only a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delicious side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer gatherings with this flavorful twist on classic corn on the cob. Sweet and spicy, these ears of corn are slathered in a tangy butter mixture that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, honey, and hot sauce until smooth.
3. Brush the butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until lightly charred.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your corn on the cob game with these 18 delicious and flavorful recipes! From classic grilled garlic butter to spicy chipotle, there’s something for every taste bud. Try roasting it with parmesan herb or wrapping it in bacon for a cheesy twist. Spice up your summer with Mexican street corn or give it a Cajun kick. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, try truffle oil and sea salt or lemon pepper. Whatever your flavor, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become new favorites!