A Flavor-Packed Side Dish You’ll Crave All Year

When summertime rolls around, we all start craving those smoky, bold, sun-kissed flavors that make grilled foods the highlight of the season. But what if you could capture that magic on your stovetop any time of year? This Grilled Corn with Garlic and Parmesan Cheese recipe does exactly that—and it’s ready in just 15 minutes!

Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, a family weeknight dinner, or need a standout side dish for a potluck, this garlicky, buttery corn recipe checks all the boxes. It’s simple to make, loaded with flavor, and flexible enough to complement everything from grilled steaks to plant-based mains.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is made for flavor-lovers. The combination of charred sweet corn, fragrant garlic, nutty Parmesan cheese, and umami-packed Worcestershire sauce transforms humble kernels into a savory, addictive side dish. It’s the kind of recipe that disappears from the table—fast.

This is the perfect recipe for:

Busy home cooks who want a quick and flavorful side.
Corn lovers looking for new ways to enjoy their favorite vegetable.
Hosts and hostesses who need a crowd-pleaser for summer gatherings.
Anyone who craves the taste of grilled corn year-round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

1 lb (450g) fresh or frozen corn kernels
¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, plus ½ tablespoon for sautéing
4 medium garlic cloves, finely minced
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Whether you use fresh or frozen corn, this recipe delivers every time. Frozen corn makes this a pantry-friendly option even in the colder months.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you get started, gather the following tools:

Large skillet or sauté pan (preferably cast iron or non-stick)
Small saucepan
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups
Garlic press (optional, for quick mincing)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the garlic is soft and fragrant—careful not to burn it. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Set aside.

Pro Tip: For even more flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of lemon juice to the sauce.

2. Cook the Corn

Heat ½ tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

If using frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw—just add it straight to the hot pan.

3. Char and Combine

Pour the garlic butter mixture into the skillet with the corn. Continue cooking for another 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the corn to get slightly charred and caramelized for that grilled flavor.

Shortcut Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can broil the finished corn for 1-2 minutes to deepen the char.

4. Finish and Serve

Remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the corn with grated Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serve immediately while warm, or chill and serve cold for a refreshing twist.

Tips, Swaps & Variations

Make this recipe your own with these creative tweaks:

Add spice: Toss in red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Make it vegan: Use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Add protein: Mix in black beans, diced grilled chicken, or crumbled bacon.
Go smoky: Add a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the garlic butter.
Turn it into a salad: Mix with chopped cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion for a flavorful corn salad.

Food & Drink Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Grilled meats like steak, chicken, or sausages
Fish or shrimp tacos
Veggie burgers or sandwiches
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
Citrus-infused iced teas or sparkling lime water

Its rich, savory profile also complements barbecue sauce-based dishes and creamy pasta salads.

How to Store Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Store any remaining corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or butter, or microwave in 30-second intervals. You can also enjoy it cold—especially as a topping for tacos or a base for a corn salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I grill the corn on the cob instead of using kernels?

Absolutely! Grilling corn on the cob and then slicing off the kernels will elevate the smoky flavor even more.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free—but always double-check your Worcestershire sauce, as some brands may include gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and serve it cold as a salad, or reheat just before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the corn can become mushy when thawed. Stick to making it fresh or enjoying within a few days.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Have Recipe for Every Season

Grilled Corn with Garlic and Parmesan Cheese is the kind of dish that keeps people coming back for seconds. It’s quick, full of flavor, and endlessly versatile. Whether served warm alongside grilled entrees or chilled as part of a summer salad, this recipe is a keeper for every home cook’s rotation.

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