Microwave Corn Garlic Butter

Featured in: Everyday Meal Ideas

This simple method uses the microwave to cook fresh corn on the cob until tender in minutes. The corn is then brushed generously with a melted garlic butter blend seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional parsley. This approach brings out the sweet, natural flavor of the corn while adding a rich, savory layer through the garlic butter. Ideal as an easy side, it can be garnished with lemon wedges or additional spices like smoked paprika for more depth.

Updated on Sat, 14 Mar 2026 13:54:39 GMT
Juicy corn on the cob steamed in the microwave and topped with rich garlic butter for a quick, flavorful side. Save
Juicy corn on the cob steamed in the microwave and topped with rich garlic butter for a quick, flavorful side. | ricoazref.com

Sweet, tender corn on the cob transformed into a quick and delightful side is just minutes away. With the magic of the microwave and the rich aroma of garlic butter, this recipe offers both convenience and flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, it brings the comforting taste of summer to your table in no time.

Juicy corn on the cob steamed in the microwave and topped with rich garlic butter for a quick, flavorful side. Save
Juicy corn on the cob steamed in the microwave and topped with rich garlic butter for a quick, flavorful side. | ricoazref.com

What's for Dinner Tonight? 🤔

Stop stressing. Get 10 fast recipes that actually work on busy nights.

Free. No spam. Just easy meals.

This easy recipe brings out the natural sweetness of corn, enhanced with a luscious garlic-infused butter that melts perfectly over each ear. It’s a fuss-free way to enjoy a classic vegetable side with a gourmet touch, making every meal feel special.

Ingredients

Tired of Takeout? 🥡

Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.

One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

  • Corn
    • 4 ears fresh corn, husked
  • Garlic Butter
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
    • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • To Serve
    • Lemon wedges (optional)

Still Scrolling? You'll Love This 👇

Our best 20-minute dinners in one free pack — tried and tested by thousands.

Trusted by 10,000+ home cooks.

Instructions

1. Place the husked corn on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel.
2. Microwave on high for 4–6 minutes, turning the corn halfway through, until the kernels are tender. Let rest for 1 minute.
3. Meanwhile, in a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and minced garlic. Microwave for 30 seconds, or until the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and parsley (if using) into the melted garlic butter.
5. Carefully remove the corn from the microwave. Brush each ear generously with the garlic butter.
6. Serve immediately, with extra butter and lemon wedges if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For juicier corn, consider wrapping each ear in wax paper before microwaving. This helps retain moisture and enhances tenderness. Always make sure the paper towel covering the corn is damp to prevent drying out during cooking.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dash of smoked paprika to the garlic butter for extra flavor variations. Fresh herbs like chives or cilantro can also be substituted for parsley according to preference.

Serviervorschläge

Serve the corn straight from the microwave with additional melted garlic butter brushed on top. Lemon wedges add a bright, citrusy touch if desired. This side pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads.

Golden corn on the cob, tender and sweet, finished with melted garlic butter and fresh parsley. Save
Golden corn on the cob, tender and sweet, finished with melted garlic butter and fresh parsley. | ricoazref.com

This microwave corn on the cob with garlic butter recipe delivers a harmonious blend of sweet and savory in a matter of minutes. It’s an accessible way to elevate simple corn to a deliciously satisfying side that will quickly become a family favorite.

Recipe FAQs

How long should I microwave the corn?

Microwave the husked corn for 4 to 6 minutes on high, turning halfway to ensure even cooking, until kernels are tender.

Can I add herbs to the garlic butter?

Yes, adding fresh parsley to the melted garlic butter enhances flavor, and you can also try spices like smoked paprika or grated Parmesan.

Is it better to microwave corn with husks on or off?

For this method, husking the corn beforehand helps the kernels cook evenly and allows the garlic butter to be applied directly afterward.

How do I store leftover garlic butter?

Store leftover garlic butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week for best freshness.

What tools are needed to prepare this dish?

A microwave-safe plate and bowl, a pastry brush for spreading butter, and basic cutting tools like a knife and board.

20-Minute Dinner Pack — Free Download 📥

10 recipes, 1 shopping list. Everything you need for a week of easy dinners.

Instant access. No signup hassle.

Microwave Corn Garlic Butter

Tender corn on the cob cooked fast with savory garlic butter for a rich, flavorful touch.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Time to Cook
8 minutes
Total Duration
13 minutes
Created by Renee Valdez


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Info Vegetarian-Friendly, No Gluten

What You Need

Corn

01 4 ears fresh corn, husked

Garlic Butter

01 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
03 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
04 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

To Serve

01 Lemon wedges

How To Make It

Step 01

Prepare corn: Place husked corn on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel.

Step 02

Microwave corn: Microwave on high for 4 to 6 minutes, turning corn halfway through, until kernels are tender. Allow to rest for 1 minute.

Step 03

Prepare garlic butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and minced garlic. Microwave for 30 seconds until butter is melted and garlic is fragrant.

Step 04

Season butter mixture: Stir salt, black pepper, and parsley into the melted garlic butter.

Step 05

Finish corn: Carefully remove corn from microwave and brush each ear generously with garlic butter mixture.

Step 06

Serve: Serve immediately with additional butter and lemon wedges if desired.

You Just Made Something Great 👏

Want more like this? Get my best easy recipes — free, straight to your inbox.

Join 10,000+ home cooks. No spam.

Tools Needed

  • Microwave
  • Microwave-safe plate
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Knife and cutting board

Allergy Details

Review ingredients for possible allergens and ask your doctor if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (butter)
  • Check butter packaging for potential cross-contamination warnings

Nutrition (for each serving)

Details are for reference and can't replace a health expert's advice.
  • Energy: 170
  • Fats: 8 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 24 grams
  • Proteins: 3 grams

Cooking Shouldn't Be Hard ❤️

Get a free recipe pack that makes weeknight dinners effortless. Real food, real fast.

Free forever. Unsubscribe anytime.