Garlic Butter BBQ Corn Ribs Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for Garlic Butter Corn Ribs—a playful, flavor-packed twist on a summer classic! Imagine sweet corn seasoned, roasted to juicy perfection, and finished with a decadent garlic butter that will have you licking your fingers clean. This is one side dish that’s as fun to eat as it is irresistible on the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every element in Garlic Butter Corn Ribs shines—each is chosen for the way it coaxes flavor, color, and texture from ordinary corn. Simple, yes, but skip any of them and you miss out on that signature buttery, smoky bite!

• Fresh corn cobs: Choose plump, juicy corn for the sweetest flavor and that signature curl as it roasts or grills.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Not just for roasting—olive oil helps the spices cling and adds a subtle richness to the corn.
• Garlic powder: This brings an easy dose of savory flavor right into the seasoning blend.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness and deep color; regular paprika is fine if that’s what you’ve got.
• Cooking/kosher salt: Essential for drawing out the sweetness of the corn and keeping those ribs crave-able.
• Black pepper: Adds a little sharpness to balance the buttery, sweet flavors.
• Unsalted butter: The heart of our garlic butter—rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth good.
• Fresh garlic: Just one clove, finely minced, infuses the butter with irresistible aroma.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional): Use as a garnish for a burst of color and freshness before serving.

Variations

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Corn Ribs is how easy they are to riff on. Whether you need to cater to dietary preferences or just want to try a new twist, these ideas will keep things fresh and fun.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning blend for fiery flavor.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan Option: Swap the butter for a good plant-based alternative—vegan butter or olive oil works beautifully.
• Herb Lovers’ Delight: Try chopped basil, dill, or chives as a garnish for a different green burst.
• Cheesy Finish: Just before serving, sprinkle the hot corn ribs with finely grated Parmesan or cotija cheese.

How to Make Garlic Butter Corn Ribs

Step 1: Prepping the Corn

Start by trimming the base and pointed tip off each ear of corn so it sits flat. Stand the cob upright, then carefully slice lengthwise into quarters. It may take a bit of muscle—brace your knife, gently tap into the top, and then carefully rock it down until you have four even “ribs” from each cob. If it feels tricky, try slicing your corn in half first to make shorter, easier-to-handle ribs.

Step 2: Seasoning the Ribs

In a large bowl, toss your quartered corn pieces with extra virgin olive oil—they should be glistening but not drenched. Next, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then gradually sprinkle this blend over the corn ribs, tossing as you go. This helps ensure every “rib” is evenly blanketed with all those robust flavors.

Step 3: Making the Garlic Butter

Melt your unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced fresh garlic. Let it cook gently for just 20 seconds—until it’s fragrant, not browned! Set the pan aside, but keep the garlic butter warm and liquid for drizzling later.

Step 4: Cooking the Corn Ribs

For the boldest flavor, fire up your BBQ to high and arrange the corn ribs kernel side down. Grill for about 8 minutes, or until you see lovely charred edges and the corn begins to curl into those signature rib shapes. Then, sear each cut side for a minute. No BBQ? Simply roast them in a hot oven at 200°C/375°F (180°C fan) for 25–30 minutes, kernel side up. The oven version is just as delicious, though the ribs may not curl as much or pick up those smoky char marks.

Step 5: Finishing With Garlic Butter

While the corn ribs are still piping hot, return them to the bowl and pour over all that glorious, garlicky butter. Toss to coat every rib in luscious flavor. Pile them high on a plate, sprinkle generously with fresh parsley or cilantro, and add an extra dusting of smoked paprika if you like. Now comes the best part—dig in and savor them just like real ribs!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Corn Ribs

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro is a must for that vibrant pop of color and herby freshness. For an extra wow, dust with a little more smoked paprika or some crumbled cheese right before serving—each bite is pure summer on a plate!

Side Dishes

Serve Garlic Butter Corn Ribs alongside grilled meats, veggie burgers, or a big summer salad. They’re fantastic with potato salad, coleslaw, or even simple roasted potatoes for a hearty, picnic-style meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile the ribs high on a wooden board for a rustic look, or arrange them “rack style” for sharing—guaranteed to impress at BBQs and parties. For a buffet, offer a zesty dipping sauce (like a smoky aioli or pink sauce) on the side for even more flavor fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover corn ribs cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days—just as tasty (maybe even better) after the flavors have mingled overnight!

Freezing

Although they’re best fresh, you can freeze cooked Garlic Butter Corn Ribs once cooled. Wrap well in foil or pop them in a freezer bag; they’ll keep for a month. Expect the texture to soften a bit, but they’ll still be packed with flavor.

Reheating

To revive that just-grilled magic, reheat in a hot oven or on the BBQ for a few minutes until sizzling. The microwave works in a pinch, but you may lose a little crispness—so go for the oven when you can!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the fun, flavor, and shareable spirit of Garlic Butter Corn Ribs. Whether you’re grilling for friends or looking to shake up your next family dinner, this recipe guarantees big smiles and satisfied taste buds. Give them a try—the hardest part is not eating them all straight from the pan!

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