Microwave Corn Garlic Butter

Featured in: Quick Snack Fixes

Sweet fresh corn on the cob is husked, microwaved until tender, and brushed with a fragrant garlic butter made by melting butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional parsley. This quick method delivers a warm, savory side that complements many meals and can be topped with lemon wedges or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor. Ideal for easy, fast cooking.

Updated on Fri, 13 Mar 2026 05:38:00 GMT
Microwave Corn on the Cob with Garlic Butter, golden and glossy, coated in melted garlic butter for a savory, aromatic side dish. Pin it
Microwave Corn on the Cob with Garlic Butter, golden and glossy, coated in melted garlic butter for a savory, aromatic side dish. | smartyskitchen.com

Sweet, tender corn on the cob is a summertime favorite, but it doesn't have to take all afternoon to prepare. With just a microwave and a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy juicy, flavorful corn brushed with a rich garlic butter that elevates every bite. This quick side dish is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a comforting taste of the season without the fuss.

Microwave Corn on the Cob with Garlic Butter, golden and glossy, coated in melted garlic butter for a savory, aromatic side dish. Pin it
Microwave Corn on the Cob with Garlic Butter, golden and glossy, coated in melted garlic butter for a savory, aromatic side dish. | smartyskitchen.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 recipe shines when corn is at its peak freshness, capturing the natural sweetness and juiciness of the kernels. The microwave steams the corn gently yet efficiently, ensuring a tender bite every time. Brushing with warm garlic butter right after cooking helps the flavors meld beautifully, accented by the optional zing of lemon wedges served alongside.

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)

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, you can wrap each ear individually in wax paper before microwaving. This helps trap steam and keeps the kernels moist without any extra effort.

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.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Elevate the garlic butter by adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of smoked paprika for smoky depth. Both add delicious twists without complicating the recipe.

Serviervorschläge

Serve the corn with lemon wedges on the side to brighten the flavors. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fresh salads, or as a standalone vegetarian side that will please any crowd.

Pin it
| smartyskitchen.com

With a few simple steps and everyday kitchen tools, you can enjoy perfectly cooked corn bursting with garlic butter goodness any time of year. This recipe proves you don't need complicated methods to create a memorable side dish that's fast, flavorful, and naturally wholesome.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How do I know when the corn is cooked?

The kernels should be tender when pierced with a fork and have a slightly softened texture after microwaving for 4-6 minutes.

Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?

Yes, the garlic butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, then gently reheated before use.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

Fresh parsley is optional; you can omit it or substitute with dried herbs like thyme or chives for a different flavor profile.

Is there a way to make the corn juicier?

Wrapping each ear in wax paper before microwaving helps retain moisture for a juicier result.

Can I add other seasonings to the garlic butter?

Yes, adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor and add complexity.

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 paired with warm garlic butter for a quick, flavorful side dish.

Prep Time
5 min
Time to Cook
8 min
Overall Time
13 min
Created by Emily Scott


Skill Level Easy

Culinary Roots American

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Details Vegetarian-Friendly, No Gluten

What You'll 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, optional

Directions

Step 01

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

Step 02

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

Step 03

Prepare garlic butter: 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.

Step 04

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

Step 05

Finish corn with butter: Carefully remove the corn from the microwave. Brush each ear generously with the garlic butter.

Step 06

Serve: Serve immediately, with extra 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 You'll Need

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

Allergy Info

Review each item for allergens and reach out to a healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (butter)
  • Check butter packaging for potential cross-contamination if highly sensitive

Nutrition Info (per portion)

Info for reference only. Always check with your doctor for health guidance.
  • Energy (Calories): 170
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Proteins: 3 g

Cooking Shouldn't Be Hard ❤️

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

Free forever. Unsubscribe anytime.