If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping side that brings together rich, savory flavors with the natural sweetness of fresh corn, this Parmesan Corn on the Cob Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine tender, juicy corn slathered in a luscious Parmesan butter mixture, kissed with smoky paprika and garlic, then roasted or grilled until perfectly caramelized. It’s comfort food elevated to something truly special, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners at home. Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed corn on the cob without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Parmesan Corn on the Cob Recipe relies on a handful of simple, quality ingredients that each add something essential to the final flavor and texture. From the creamy, salty Parmesan cheese to the smoky paprika that gives it a gentle kick, every element plays a perfect part.
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and a bit of creamy texture when mixed into the butter.
- ¼ cup butter (softened): Acts as the luscious base for the Parmesan mixture and helps everything stick to the corn.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Brings a warm, smoky depth that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory kick that rounds out the flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the natural and added flavors, making each bite pop.
- 4 ears of corn (shucked and broken in half): The star of the show, sweet and fresh, ready to soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese and green onions for garnish: A final sprinkle that adds extra flair and freshness when serving.
How to Make Parmesan Corn on the Cob Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Parmesan Butter
Start by combining the finely grated Parmesan cheese, softened butter, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt in a medium bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything until you have a smooth, well-blended Parmesan butter. This mixture is the magic behind the recipe, coating the corn with layers of flavor that will roast beautifully.
Step 2: Coat the Corn
Take each half-ear of corn and slather it generously with the Parmesan butter, using your hands to press the mixture into the kernels so none of it slips off during cooking. This step is crucial because you want every bite to burst with the savory, smoky goodness of the butter.
Step 3: Bake or Grill the Corn
For oven baking, preheat your oven to 420°F (220°C) and place the butter-coated corn pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes without turning, allowing the cornbutter to melt fully and infuse the kernels with flavor. For a slightly charred finish, switch on the broiler during the last 5 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to high heat. Wrap the buttered corn in foil or place it on a grill mat to keep it protected while cooking. Grill for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally until the corn is cooked through and has those irresistible grill marks and smoky flavor that makes any recipe taste even better.
How to Serve Parmesan Corn on the Cob Recipe
Garnishes
Once your Parmesan Corn on the Cob Recipe is cooked to perfection, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan cheese over the top while the corn is still hot, so it melts slightly for added cheesiness. Thinly sliced green onions make a wonderful fresh and tangy garnish that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
Serving this corn alongside your favorite barbecue dishes such as ribs, grilled chicken, or juicy burgers will instantly elevate your meal. It also pairs beautifully with light summer salads and creamy coleslaw, giving you a plate full of contrasting textures and complementary flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the corn on wooden sticks or skewers to make it easy to handle at cookouts. You can also slice the kernels off the cob after cooking and toss them with extra Parmesan butter and fresh herbs for a delicious corn salad that still highlights the key flavors of this Parmesan Corn on the Cob Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Parmesan Corn on the Cob, wrap each piece tightly in foil or place in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days for the freshest taste and texture.
Freezing
While freezing cooked corn on the cob isn’t usually recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze the Parmesan butter separately in an airtight container. When ready to use, thaw and spread it on freshly cooked corn for that perfect flavor without sacrificing quality.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the corn and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the kernels rubbery instead of tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated?
Absolutely! Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will give an even richer flavor and better melt into the butter mixture, making your Parmesan Corn on the Cob Recipe extra delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting butter with a plant-based alternative and using a dairy-free cheese substitute, but the classic nutty taste of Parmesan is key to this recipe’s signature flavor. Experimenting is fun, but expect some differences.
Can I prepare the Parmesan butter in advance?
Yes! The Parmesan butter mixture can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading it on your corn for easier application.
What’s the best way to get those char marks when baking?
Broiling the corn for the last 5 minutes of baking is the secret to creating beautiful char marks and a smoky taste without turning on the grill.
Can I double this recipe for larger gatherings?
Definitely! Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. The process remains the same, and everything scales up beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Corn on the Cob Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings simple ingredients together in the most flavorful way possible. Whether you bake or grill it, the savory Parmesan butter combined with smoky paprika and fresh corn creates an irresistible side dish that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab some fresh ears of corn, whip up the Parmesan butter, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this deliciously satisfying treat!
Print
Parmesan Corn on the Cob Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (baking) or 12 minutes (grilling)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Parmesan Corn on the Cob recipe offers a deliciously cheesy and smoky twist on classic corn on the cob. Coated with a flavorful Parmesan butter mix and cooked either in the oven or on the grill, the corn emerges tender with a crispy, charred finish. Perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Parmesan Butter Mixture
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Corn
- 4 ears of corn, shucked and broken in half
Optional Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Parmesan Butter: In a medium-sized bowl, thoroughly mix the finely grated Parmesan cheese, softened butter, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt until the ingredients are well combined and form a smooth butter mixture.
- Coat the Corn: Evenly spread the Parmesan butter over each piece of the shucked corn halves. Press the butter firmly onto the corn with your hands to ensure that it adheres well and covers the surface completely.
- Baked Corn on the Cob: Preheat your oven to 420°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the butter-coated corn pieces on it. Bake the corn for 20 minutes without flipping. For a few charred marks and extra flavor, broil the corn during the last 5 minutes of baking carefully watching to avoid burning.
- BBQ Corn on the Cob (optional): If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to high heat. Wrap the buttered corn in aluminum foil or lay it on a grill mat to prevent sticking. Grill for 10 to 12 minutes, turning the corn every few minutes to achieve an even cook and develop desirable char marks.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the corn from the oven or grill. Optionally, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese and sliced green onions on top for an extra burst of flavor and garnish. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and spreading.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the Parmesan butter mix.
- Wrapping corn in foil when grilling helps retain moisture but skipping the foil allows for better charred flavor.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor impact.
- The recipe yields 8 small corn halves or 4 large corn servings.
