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Savory Cowboy Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob

cowboy butter grilled corn - featured image

A bold, smoky, and slightly spicy grilled corn on the cob coated with a flavorful cowboy butter made from garlic, smoked paprika, fresh herbs, and a hint of cayenne pepper. Perfect for BBQs and gatherings, this easy recipe delivers juicy, charred corn with a creamy, garlicky finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of cumin or fresh cilantro instead of parsley
  • Optional: olive oil for brushing corn before grilling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cowboy Butter: In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chopped parsley, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated and spreadable.
  2. Prep the Corn: Husk the corn and remove all silk strands. Rinse under cold water and pat dry. Optionally, brush ears lightly with olive oil to help with charring.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (about 375°F).
  4. Grill the Corn: Place corn directly on grill grates. Turn every 3-4 minutes for about 15 minutes until golden brown with grill marks.
  5. Apply Cowboy Butter: Remove corn from grill and immediately slather generously with the prepared cowboy butter so it melts into the kernels.
  6. Serve hot with extra butter on the side and optional fresh parsley or lemon juice garnish.

Notes

Use medium heat to avoid burning the corn while allowing sugars to caramelize. Turn corn frequently for even cooking. Apply butter immediately after grilling for best flavor. Butter can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated. For juicier corn, grill with husks on after soaking in water for 10-15 minutes, then peel back husks near the end to char.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn on the cob, cowboy butter, BBQ side dish, smoky corn, garlic butter corn, summer recipes, easy grilling, spicy butter