Experience the ultimate flavor combination with this Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob—a delicious twist on classic corn that’s rich, cheesy, and packed with bold garlic flavors. Perfectly grilled or baked, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for barbecues, family dinners, or even as a comforting side dish.

Irresistible Cheesy Garlic Butter Flavor
Corn on the cob is naturally sweet and juicy, making it the perfect base for a savory, buttery, and cheesy upgrade. This recipe enhances the traditional corn with garlic-infused butter, melted cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, creating an indulgent and flavorful bite every time.
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking for a simple yet delicious side dish, this cheesy garlic butter corn will become a favorite on your table. It’s easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients to transform ordinary corn into something extraordinary.
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
To make this rich and flavorful dish, you’ll need a few simple yet delicious ingredients that complement the natural sweetness of corn.
- Fresh Corn on the Cob – Choose fresh, plump ears of corn for the best taste and texture. Sweet corn works especially well for this recipe.
- Butter – Melted butter is the base of the garlic sauce, adding a rich, creamy flavor that seeps into every kernel.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the butter with a deep, savory taste, making the corn irresistibly delicious.
- Cheese – Melted cheese takes this dish to the next level! Mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan work beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Parsley or Cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the corn and tie everything together.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Making this cheesy garlic butter corn is quick and easy, whether you grill it, bake it, or cook it on the stovetop. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Peel back the husks and remove the silk from each ear of corn. Rinse well under running water and pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Corn
- Grilling Method: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Brush the corn with the garlic butter mixture and place it on the grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and tender.
- Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the corn on a baking sheet, brush with garlic butter, and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add the corn, and cook for 8-10 minutes, rotating to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
During the last few minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese over the corn. If using the oven, broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden. If grilling or cooking on the stovetop, cover for a minute to allow the cheese to melt.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the corn from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy the melty, garlicky, cheesy goodness!
How Long to Cook Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
The cooking time for corn on the cob varies depending on the method used. You want the kernels to be tender and slightly charred, with the cheese perfectly melted. Here are some general guidelines:
- Grilling – Cook for 10-15 minutes over medium heat, turning occasionally for even charring.
- Baking – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Stovetop – Cook in a hot pan for 8-10 minutes, rotating frequently.
- Boiling (if pre-cooking) – Boil for 5-7 minutes, then transfer to the grill or oven for extra flavor.
Keep an eye on the cheese in the final minutes to ensure it melts perfectly without burning.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftover cheesy garlic butter corn, you can store it easily and reheat it later. Here’s how:
- Refrigerator – Wrap the leftover corn in foil or place it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer – For longer storage, wrap each ear of corn tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How to Reheat:
- Oven – Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Grill or Stovetop – Heat over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn
To achieve the most flavorful and perfectly cooked corn, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose Fresh Corn – Look for corn with bright green husks and plump kernels for the best taste and texture.
- Use High-Quality Cheese – Mozzarella gives a gooey melt, cheddar adds a sharp taste, and parmesan offers a salty, crispy topping. Try a mix for extra flavor!
- Don’t Overcook – Overcooked corn can become mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time to maintain a juicy, tender texture.
- Add Extra Toppings – Enhance the flavors by sprinkling chili flakes, paprika, or even crumbled feta for a unique twist.
- Make It Spicy – Add a kick by mixing a little cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the garlic butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter, and use dairy-free cheese for a plant-based version.
Can I prepare the corn ahead of time?
Yes, you can boil or grill the corn in advance, then reheat it with cheese just before serving.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella is great for a stretchy melt, while cheddar adds sharpness. Parmesan works well for a crispy, golden finish.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook the corn at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, then add cheese and cook for another 2-3 minutes.


Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is the perfect side dish for any occasion! Juicy, tender corn is slathered in rich garlic butter, grilled or baked to perfection, and topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs. This easy, flavorful recipe is great for barbecues, family dinners, or a delicious comfort food treat.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob, husked
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: Remove husks and silk from the corn and rinse under running water. Pat dry.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Cook the Corn:
- Grill: Brush corn with garlic butter and grill over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place corn on a baking sheet, brush with garlic butter, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add corn, and cook for 8-10 minutes, rotating to ensure even cooking.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the corn during the last few minutes of cooking. If baking, broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve warm. Enjoy!