“I grilled corn with seasoned butter—now it’s the only side dish my kids ask for”

There’s something about corn on the cob that just feels like summer. It’s simple, sweet, and cheap—which checks all my mom boxes. But when I started brushing it with seasoned butter and throwing it on the grill? Game. Changer.

This Grilled Corn on the Cob is now our go-to side dish for everything from burgers to BBQ chicken—or even just as a snack when I want something warm and comforting. The best part? It uses pantry staples I always have, takes 15 minutes tops, and makes everyone feel like they’re at a cookout, even on a Tuesday.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Uses fresh, affordable ingredients
• Grilled = extra flavor with almost no effort
• Butter + garlic + paprika = total crowd-pleaser
• Easily customizable for whatever’s in your fridge

Ingredients:

• 4–6 ears of corn, husks removed
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or chili powder if you want heat)
• Salt + pepper
• Optional: grated Parmesan, chopped herbs, lime wedges

Directions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high.
2. Mix melted butter with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush corn with seasoned butter.
4. Grill for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred.
5. Top with Parmesan or herbs while hot. Serve with lime wedges if you’re feeling fancy.

Real Mom Tip:

If you don’t have a grill, this works in a cast iron pan or under the broiler—just watch it so it doesn’t burn!

Budget Breakdown:

• Corn (in season): ~$0.25–0.50/ear
• Butter and seasonings: pantry staples
• Total: ~$2–3 for 6 servings = ~$0.40 per serving

Flavor Variations:

• Mexican-style: add mayo, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder
• Ranch twist: stir ranch seasoning into the butter
• Herb garden vibe: mix in fresh parsley, thyme, or dill

We served this last weekend with grilled chicken and a side of watermelon, and my kids declared it “the best part of dinner.” Even my picky one asked for seconds. Now that’s a side dish win.

Sometimes the simplest things—corn, butter, and a little love—make the biggest impact.

Grilled Corn on the Cob (Budget-Friendly Flavor-Packed Version)

Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4–6 ears of fresh corn, husks removed
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional but delicious)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: grated Parmesan, chopped herbs, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of chili powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush each ear of corn generously with the seasoned butter.
4. Grill corn for 10–15 minutes, turning every few minutes, until charred in spots and tender.
5. Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan or herbs while hot. Serve with lime wedges for a zesty twist.