Grilled Corn with BBQ Butter is a simple yet flavor-packed side dish featuring charred corn on the cob slathered in smoky, buttery barbecue goodness. This easy grilled corn recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, backyard BBQs, and pairing with grilled meats.
Yields 6 Servings Servings Quarter (1.5 Serving) Half (3 Servings) Default (6 Servings) Double (12 Servings) Triple (18 Servings) Prep Time 15 minsCook Time 15 minsTotal Time 30 minsFor the Corn
6 ears fresh corn, husked
1 tbsp oil or melted butter (for grilling)
BBQ Butter
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp BBQ sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Pinch of salt
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Optional Toppings
Grated Parmesan or cotija cheese
Chili flakes or cayenne
Fresh lime wedges
Make the BBQ butter
1
In a bowl, mix softened butter, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and herbs.
Set aside at room temperature or refrigerate until ready to use.
Preheat the grill
Grill the corn
3
Brush corn lightly with oil or melted butter.
Place corn directly on grill grates.
Grill 12–15 minutes , turning every 2–3 minutes, until kernels are tender and lightly charred on all sides.
Butter & finish
4
Remove corn from grill.
While hot, generously slather with BBQ butter.
Add optional cheese, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lime.
Serve
Side Information (Perfect BBQ Pairing)
6
Brisket or pulled pork
BBQ chicken or ribs
Burgers and sausages
Grilled shrimp or salmon
Baked beans and coleslaw
Pairing Suggestions
7
Beer: Lager, pilsner, or wheat beer
Wine: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or dry rosé
Non-alcoholic: Lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water
Tips & Notes
8
Fresh summer corn needs minimal seasoning—let the grill do the work.
For extra smokiness, add a small wood chunk to a charcoal grill.
No grill? Roast corn at 425°F or use a grill pan.
BBQ butter can be made ahead and frozen in logs.
Leftover corn kernels are great in salads, salsas, or tacos.
Ingredients For the Corn
6 ears fresh corn, husked
1 tbsp oil or melted butter (for grilling)
BBQ Butter
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp BBQ sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Pinch of salt
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Optional Toppings
Grated Parmesan or cotija cheese
Chili flakes or cayenne
Fresh lime wedges
Directions Make the BBQ butter
1
In a bowl, mix softened butter, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and herbs.
Set aside at room temperature or refrigerate until ready to use.
Preheat the grill
Grill the corn
3
Brush corn lightly with oil or melted butter.
Place corn directly on grill grates.
Grill 12–15 minutes , turning every 2–3 minutes, until kernels are tender and lightly charred on all sides.
Butter & finish
4
Remove corn from grill.
While hot, generously slather with BBQ butter.
Add optional cheese, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lime.
Serve
Side Information (Perfect BBQ Pairing)
6
Brisket or pulled pork
BBQ chicken or ribs
Burgers and sausages
Grilled shrimp or salmon
Baked beans and coleslaw
Pairing Suggestions
7
Beer: Lager, pilsner, or wheat beer
Wine: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or dry rosé
Non-alcoholic: Lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water
Tips & Notes
8
Fresh summer corn needs minimal seasoning—let the grill do the work.
For extra smokiness, add a small wood chunk to a charcoal grill.
No grill? Roast corn at 425°F or use a grill pan.
BBQ butter can be made ahead and frozen in logs.
Leftover corn kernels are great in salads, salsas, or tacos.
Grilled Corn with BBQ Butter
