Print

Flavorful Smoked Paprika Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob

smoked paprika garlic butter corn on the cob - featured image

Juicy corn on the cob coated with a smoky, garlicky butter blend, perfect for summer BBQs and quick, flavorful side dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Husk and clean 4 ears of fresh corn by peeling back the husks and removing the silk. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a kitchen towel (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper if using. Blend until smooth and creamy (about 5 minutes).
  3. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are glowing red with gray ash (about 10 minutes).
  4. Using a basting brush or the back of a spoon, generously spread the garlic butter mixture all over each ear of corn, making sure it seeps into the crevices between kernels.
  5. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes with tongs to avoid burning, until kernels have a slight char and butter is bubbling.
  6. Remove the corn from the grill and brush with any remaining garlic butter. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.

Notes

Use softened but not melted butter for best coating. Turn corn frequently to avoid burning. Wrap corn in foil for a steamed texture. Prepare garlic butter a day ahead for deeper flavor. Substitute plant-based spread for dairy-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked paprika, garlic butter, corn on the cob, summer BBQ, grilled corn, easy side dish, smoky flavor