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# 🌽 Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn – The Ultimate Summer Side Dish
When the sun is shining, the grill is sizzling, and fresh produce is in abundance, there’s no better way to celebrate summer than with a side of **Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn**. This irresistible recipe takes humble ears of corn and transforms them into a buttery, garlicky, cheesy masterpiece. It’s the kind of side dish that disappears fast — often before it even hits the table!
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, planning a family dinner, or simply craving something rich, savory, and satisfying, this easy dish has you covered. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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## 🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Quick and Easy** – Ready in under 20 minutes!
* **Bold Flavors** – Garlic butter and cheese? Yes, please.
* **Versatile** – Perfect with grilled meats, burgers, or even on its own.
* **Customizable** – Add spice, herbs, or switch up the cheeses.
* **Kid-Approved** – Cheesy and buttery… what’s not to love?
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## 🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this cheesy garlic delight:
* **4 ears of corn**, husked and cleaned
* **4 tablespoons unsalted butter**, melted
* **2 cloves garlic**, minced
* **½ teaspoon salt**
* **½ teaspoon black pepper**
* **½ teaspoon paprika** *(optional, for a smoky kick)*
* **¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese**
* **¼ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese** *(your choice)*
Optional: Fresh parsley or chives for garnish, chili flakes for heat
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## 🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. Prep the Corn
Start by cleaning and husking your corn. You can boil, grill, or roast the corn depending on your preference:
* **Grilled Corn:** Brush the corn lightly with oil and grill over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred.
* **Boiled Corn:** Boil in salted water for 6–8 minutes until tender.
* **Oven Roasted:** Wrap corn in foil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes.
> 🔥 *Tip:* Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the garlic and cheese perfectly.
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### 2. Make the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the **butter** and stir in the **minced garlic**, **salt**, **pepper**, and **paprika** (if using). Let the garlic cook for a minute in the hot butter to mellow the raw bite.
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### 3. Brush and Cheese It
Place the cooked corn on a serving tray or plate. Generously brush the hot ears of corn with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat all sides.
Next, sprinkle each ear with **Parmesan cheese** followed by **mozzarella or cheddar**. The heat from the corn will start to melt the cheese slightly — delicious!
> 🧀 *Cheese Tip:* For maximum meltiness, pop the corn under the broiler for 1–2 minutes after adding cheese.
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### 4. Garnish and Serve
Top with a sprinkle of **fresh parsley**, **chopped chives**, or even a touch of **red pepper flakes** if you like heat.
Serve immediately while hot and cheesy — napkins recommended!
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## 🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn is a perfect companion to:
* **Grilled steak, chicken, or ribs**
* **Burgers and sandwiches**
* **Baked potatoes and salads**
* Or simply **on its own** with a cold drink on a hot day!
This dish is also a hit at picnics, potlucks, or tailgates. If you’re entertaining, consider slicing the corn into halves or thirds to make them easier to serve and eat.
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## 🔄 Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few tasty ideas:
* **Mexican-Inspired:** Add lime juice, cotija cheese, and Tajín seasoning for a take on elote.
* **Spicy:** Mix chili powder or cayenne into the butter for a kick.
* **Herbed:** Stir fresh basil or thyme into the butter mixture.
* **Vegan Option:** Use plant-based butter and vegan cheese alternatives.
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## 🌽 Why It Works
Corn is naturally sweet and juicy — the perfect base for bold flavors. The **garlic butter** adds richness and depth, while the **cheese** brings a salty, creamy balance that makes every bite irresistible. This combination highlights the natural flavor of corn while elevating it into something truly special.
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## 🧡 Final Thoughts
**Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn** isn’t just a side dish — it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a powerful way. Whether you’re grilling out with friends or looking to brighten a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers every time.
So grab some fresh corn, get that butter melting, and prepare for cheesy, garlicky perfection. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to plain corn again.
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Would you like a printable version of this recipe or a version with metric measurements? Let me know!