Microwave Corn with Garlic Butter

Featured in: Family-Style Cooking

Enjoy fresh corn on the cob prepared quickly in the microwave, then brushed with a rich, fragrant garlic butter. This method cooks the corn to tender perfection in minutes, making it a perfect side for any meal. The garlic butter, infused with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional parsley, adds a savory and vibrant finish. Serve warm with optional lemon wedges for a bright touch. It’s an easy, fast way to elevate simple corn with bold flavors.

Updated on Mon, 16 Mar 2026 21:10:44 GMT
Microwave corn on the cob with garlic butter, tender and sweet, ready in minutes for a quick side dish. Pin It
Microwave corn on the cob with garlic butter, tender and sweet, ready in minutes for a quick side dish. | islikitchenette.com

Sweet, tender corn on the cob is cooked quickly in the microwave and finished with a rich, savory garlic butter—perfect for a fast and flavorful side dish.

Microwave corn on the cob with garlic butter, tender and sweet, ready in minutes for a quick side dish. Pin It
Microwave corn on the cob with garlic butter, tender and sweet, ready in minutes for a quick side dish. | islikitchenette.com

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This recipe takes just minutes but delivers full, comforting flavor. The microwave steams the corn to juicy perfection, making it an ideal side for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.

Ingredients

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  • 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)

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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 extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dash of smoked paprika. If you prefer, you can wrap each ear individually in wax paper before microwaving for juicier results. Leftover garlic butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Try adding smoked paprika or Parmesan cheese to the garlic butter for a different flavor profile. For juicier corn, individually wrap the ears in wax paper before microwaving.

Serviervorschläge

Serve the corn hot, brushed generously with melted garlic butter. Add lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh contrast if desired.

Pin It
| islikitchenette.com

This quick and easy recipe lets you enjoy fresh corn on the cob any time without the need for boiling water or outdoor grills. It’s a simple side that pairs well with a variety of meals, bringing comforting, garlicky richness to your table.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How long should I microwave the corn?

Microwave the husked corn for 4 to 6 minutes on high, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes, the garlic butter can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an additional flavor boost.

Is it necessary to cover the corn while microwaving?

Covering the corn with a damp paper towel helps retain moisture, cooking it evenly and keeping kernels tender.

Can I wrap the corn before microwaving?

Wrapping each ear individually in wax paper can produce juicier corn by trapping steam during cooking.

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Microwave Corn with Garlic Butter

Sweet, tender corn cooked quickly and finished with savory garlic butter for a fast side dish.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
8 mins
Time to Make
13 mins
Recipe by Russell Becker


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Portion Size 4 Portions

Diet Preferences Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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

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 the 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: Stir salt, black pepper, and parsley into the melted garlic butter until combined.

Step 05

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

Step 06

Serve: Transfer to serving plates and present immediately with extra butter and lemon wedges on the side.

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Tools Needed

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

Allergy Info

Review every 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 per Serving

These details are for information only and don't replace medical guidance.
  • Calories: 170
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Proteins: 3 g

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