Herb-Butter Roasted Corn on the Cob

Name: Herb-Butter Roasted Corn on the Cob
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn, husked; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Cooking Ideas

I always look forward to summer barbecues, and one of my absolute favorites to make is herb-butter roasted corn on the cob. The sweet and juicy corn pairs perfectly with the flavorful herb-infused butter, creating a taste sensation that keeps me coming back for more. Plus, this recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal side dish for any outdoor gathering. The best part? It's easily customizable with your favorite herbs, so each batch can be a little different and exciting!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:29:27.883Z

I remember the first time I tried herb-butter roasted corn on the cob at a summer festival. The combination of the buttery richness and the fresh, sweet corn was a revelation. I decided to recreate this deliciousness at home and quickly learned the secret is to let the butter soak into the warm corn. I always use fresh herbs from my garden, which elevates the dish to a whole new level of flavor.

One of my favorite tips is to grill the corn in its husk, as it helps to steam the kernels and keeps them tender. Removing the husk after grilling lets you slather on that herb butter while the corn is still warm, enhancing the aroma and taste. Trust me, the result is a side dish that will wow everyone at the table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich herb-infused butter that enhances the sweetness of corn
Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for summer gatherings
Versatile recipe that allows for customization with different herbs

Choosing the Right Corn

Selecting fresh corn is key to achieving the best flavor in your herb-butter roasted corn on the cob. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels that feel firm when gently squeezed. A good rule of thumb is to check for sweetness by peeling back a little of the husk and tasting a kernel. Choose corn that is in-season for the sweetest results, typically available during the summer months.

If you come across corn that appears slightly older, you can still use it—just ensure to soak it in water for a couple of hours before grilling. This moisture can help revive the corn's juiciness and enhance its overall flavor.

Enhancing the Herb Butter

The beauty of the herb butter lies in its versatility. While the combination of parsley, chives, and basil gives a delightful flavor, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as thyme or dill. Just be sure to chop them finely to ensure they mix well with the butter. If you're looking for a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some minced jalapeño can create a delightful kick that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the corn.

To elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the herb butter. This acidity can brighten the flavors and complement the richness of the butter, offering an even more balanced taste experience.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Corn

When grilling the corn, ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat, ideally around 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the kernels to cook evenly, resulting in a tender texture without burning. It’s important to turn the corn every few minutes, checking for those beautiful charred marks, which typically signifies that the cobs are ready to be taken off the grill after about 15-20 minutes.

Another technique you can use is to wrap the corn in aluminum foil with a tablespoon of the herb butter before grilling. This method traps steam, making the corn exceptionally moist while infusing it with flavor. Just be sure to unwrap the foil carefully, as steam will escape and can burn if you're not cautious.

Ingredients

For the Corn

4 ears of corn, husked
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Herb Butter

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt to taste

Combine all herb butter ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir well.

Instructions

Prepare the Corn

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Husk the corn and remove any silk. Brush the corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Grill the Corn

Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning every few minutes until the kernels are tender and charred.

Make the Herb Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with parsley, chives, basil, garlic, and salt. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Serve

Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the heat and brush the warm corn with the herb butter. Serve immediately and enjoy!

For extra flavor, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix and match your herbs depending on your preference. Dill or cilantro can add a wonderful twist to the classic butter blend.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This herb-butter roasted corn can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for busy summer gatherings. You can make the herb butter a day ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To make it easier to use, consider shaping the butter into a log and wrapping it in parchment paper. This way, you can easily slice off portions as needed without the hassle.

Once grilled, the corn can be kept warm in a covered dish for up to an hour, though it's best enjoyed fresh off the grill. If there are any leftovers, store the corn in an airtight container in the fridge. You can reheat it briefly on the grill or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds to maintain its juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your herb-butter roasted corn alongside traditional barbecue favorites like grilled chicken or ribs for a classic meal. For a more casual setting, pair it with a fresh salad and some crusty bread for a light yet satisfying summer dinner. This corn also makes an excellent addition to taco nights; just cut the kernels off the cob and mix them into your favorite taco filling for added sweetness and texture.

For an impressive twist, try topping the corn with crumbled feta or cotija cheese after brushing on the herb butter. It adds a creamy, salty contrast that complements the sweet, charred flavor of the corn beautifully, taking your summer dish to the next level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

While fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before grilling.

→ Is there a way to prepare this recipe in the oven?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), wrap the husked corn in aluminum foil, and roast for about 25-30 minutes.

→ How should I store leftover herb butter?

You can store leftover herb butter in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze it for up to six months.

→ What other herbs can I use?

Feel free to experiment with any herbs you enjoy! Thyme, oregano, or dill can also make excellent additions to your herb butter.