Perfect for backyard barbecues.
This Basil Butter Grilled Corn is one of those simple summer recipes that proves a few fresh ingredients can make a delicious dish! Sweet corn is grilled until lightly charred, then slathered with homemade basil butter that melts into every bite.
Grilled Corn
We love corn on the cob in our house during the summer! I love that it’s a side dish I can throw on the grill to be able to make an entire meal without getting the kitchen dirty.
Basil is one of my favorite herbs to use in the summer and pairs great with a lightly grilled and charred flavor.
This recipe will elevate your grilled corn this summer!
Ingredients
Fresh sweet corn is the star of this recipe (well, and the basil), but the summer corn makes this recipe even better. Softened butter is mixed with fresh basil, lemon zest, kosher salt, and black pepper for a simple but tasty compound butter.
- fresh corn on the cob – yellow, white, or bicolor will all work the same
- avocado oil – just a light brush before grilling
- unsalted butter – we add our own salt
- fresh basil
- lemon zest – don’t leave this out it adds a ton of flavor!
- black pepper
- kosher salt – I use Diamond Crystal in all my recipes
How to Make Basil Butter Grilled Corn
Make the Basil Butter: Mix the softened butter with the basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Grill the Corn: Brush the corn lightly with oil and grill until tender with light char marks, turning occasionally.
Finish & Serve: Spread the basil butter over the hot corn, then finish with flaky salt and fresh basil before serving.
What to Serve with Basil Butter Grilled Corn
This is the perfect side dish for summer cookouts, family barbecues, holiday gatherings, and easy weeknight dinners. It’s especially delicious when fresh sweet corn and basil are at their peak during the summer months.
Serve it with:
- Herby Grilled Chicken
- Marinated Skirt Steak
- Chipotle Chicken
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Classic Pasta Salad
How to Make Basil Butter Grilled Corn Ahead of Time
The basil butter can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before spreading onto the hot corn.
The corn is best served immediately while warm.
Equipment I Use to Make Basil Butter Grilled Corn
- Basting Brush – for brushing the corn with oil and butter
- Corn Holders – so you don’t lose any butter!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the basil butter ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and let it soften before using.
Can I use a grill pan?
Yes! Use a cast iron or grill pan to char the corn inside.
Basil Butter Grilled Corn
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the Corn
- 4 ears fresh sweet corn, husks removed
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
For the Basil Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Finishing
- Flaky salt
- Additional torn basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or gill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons softened butter, ¼ cup finely chopped basil, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.
- Brush 4 ears of corn lightly with 1 tablespoon avocado oil.
- Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every few minutes, until tender and lightly charred on all sides.
- Transfer the hot corn to a serving platter and immediately spread the basil butter over each ear, allowing it to melt into the corn.
- Finish with flaky salt and a few torn basil leaves before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dishes
- Method: Grill
Deli Macaroni Salad
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