Nothing says summer quite like Grilled Corn with Herb Butter, and if you’re looking for a way to transform ordinary corn on the cob into something truly spectacular, you’ve found your ultimate recipe! This dish balances the smokiness of charred, juicy corn with the freshness of garden herbs and creamy, garlicky butter—each bite is a celebration of vibrant flavor and irresistible texture. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a sunshine-inspired side, this is a showstopper that’s too good not to share.

Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need an endless ingredient list to create something memorable—just a handful of fresh, quality items that shine when brought together. Each ingredient plays a key role, from building the summery backbone of the corn to infusing every bite with rich, herbal goodness.
- Fresh corn on the cob (6 ears): The super-sweet, plump kernels are the canvas for all that herby, buttery magic.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, softened): Essential for that melt-in-your-mouth finish that balances the grill’s smokiness.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a pop of color and a bright, clean herbal note.
- Fresh chives (1 tablespoon, chopped): Lends a subtle oniony bite without overpowering the whole dish.
- Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon, chopped): Infuses the butter with its distinctive earthy, citrusy undertones.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Provides just the right amount of kick to wake up all the other flavors.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Offers gentle warmth that plays beautifully with the herbs.
- Olive oil (for brushing): Helps the corn grill up golden and glossy while keeping it moist.
How to Make Grilled Corn with Herb Butter
Step 1: Fire Up the Grill
First things first, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Let it warm up for at least 10 minutes with the lid closed so it’s nice and hot—this gives you those signature grill marks and just the right amount of smoky flavor in your Grilled Corn with Herb Butter.
Step 2: Whip Up the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter, parsley, chives, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together until the herbs are evenly distributed, and you have a flecked, aromatic butter mixture that smells absolutely heavenly. Set aside while you work on the corn so the flavors can really mingle.
Step 3: Prepare the Corn
With the husks and silks already removed, lay out your corn cobs and brush them lightly all over with olive oil. This little step is magic—it keeps the kernels juicy and helps them caramelize into golden nuggets of flavor on the grill.
Step 4: Grill the Corn
Place the corn directly onto the grill grates. Turn every couple of minutes, allowing the heat to char and blister the kernels just right. After about 10 to 12 minutes, your corn will have gorgeous grill marks and the scent will make everyone’s mouth water.
Step 5: Slather with Herb Butter
As soon as the corn comes off the grill—don’t wait!—generously smear each ear with the prepared herb butter. The hot corn will melt the butter instantly, making every kernel a little explosion of garden-fresh, buttery bliss. There’s nothing quite like Grilled Corn with Herb Butter hot off the grill.
How to Serve Grilled Corn with Herb Butter

Garnishes
Add the finishing touch by sprinkling extra fresh herbs, a dusting of Parmesan cheese, or a quick squeeze of fresh lime over the corn. These garnishes wake up the flavors and make your Grilled Corn with Herb Butter look even more tempting.
Side Dishes
This dish is a BBQ superstar that pairs beautifully with crisp salads, smoky grilled meats, or a summer bean salad. Serve along a pile of burgers, grilled chicken, or veggie skewers, and let the feast begin!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the corn cobs into smaller sections and arrange them standing up on a platter. Drizzle extra herb butter on top, or offer an assortment of flavored butters to keep things playful. Family-style or individually wrapped in parchment for a picnic—the possibilities are just as delightful as the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Grilled Corn with Herb Butter, let the corn cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge. It will keep its sweet crunch and herby flavor for up to three days.
Freezing
Leftover corn can be cut off the cob and frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. This means you can enjoy the taste of summer—and that irresistible herb butter—all year round.
Reheating
To bring your corn back to life, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F, wrapped in foil to prevent drying out. You can also toss the kernels in a hot skillet for a quick saute. Either way, add a fresh swipe of herb butter just before serving for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen or canned corn if fresh isn’t available?
Fresh corn really shines here, but you can adapt Grilled Corn with Herb Butter by grilling thawed frozen cobs or roasted kernels. Canned corn isn’t ideal for grilling whole, but tossing kernels with the herb butter makes a delicious skillet side.
Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the butter up to three days in advance—just cover and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before slathering on your steaming grilled corn for easier spreading.
What’s the best way to chop the herbs?
Use a sharp knife and bundle the herbs tightly, then chop with a gentle rocking motion. This releases their oils and keeps the flavors bright, so you get the most from every sprinkle in your Grilled Corn with Herb Butter.
Is it possible to grill the corn without a grill?
If an outdoor grill isn’t an option, a grill pan on your stovetop works wonders. Alternatively, roasted or broiled corn in your oven gives a lovely char and brings the same Herbed Butter magic.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely—swap the unsalted butter for your favorite plant-based butter alternative, and you’ll have a totally dairy-free version of Grilled Corn with Herb Butter that everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try Grilled Corn with Herb Butter, you’re going to want to make it all summer long! The combo of juicy, smoky corn and velvety herbed butter is pure happiness, whether you serve it at a backyard bash or a picnic for two. Don’t wait for a special occasion—go fire up that grill and bring this sunshine-packed side dish to your next meal.
Print
Grilled Corn with Herb Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy the smoky sweetness of grilled corn on the cob topped with flavorful herb butter in this easy and delicious summer side dish recipe.
Ingredients
Corn:
- 6 ears of fresh corn, husked
Herb Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the herb butter: Mix softened butter with parsley, chives, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Grill the corn: Lightly brush each ear of corn with olive oil and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
- Finish with herb butter: Immediately spread herb butter over hot grilled corn.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can prepare the herb butter in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Enhance the flavor with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- This recipe can also be made with roasted or boiled corn.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg