Memorial Day is the perfect excuse to fire up the grill, gather your friends, and whip up some mouthwatering dishes. Imagine the smoky aroma of grilled corn wafting through the air, mingling with laughter and the sizzle of burgers on the barbecue. That sweet, slightly charred goodness makes Memorial Day Grilled Corn a true crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. For more inspiration, check out this lemon basil chicken piccata recipe.

As summer approaches, my fond memories of family barbecues flood back. There’s something magical about biting into warm, juicy corn dripping with butter and sprinkled with salt. It’s a joyful moment that turns even the grumpiest cousin into a smiling corn enthusiast. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will elevate your holiday gathering and make your taste buds dance!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Memorial Day Grilled Corn is incredibly easy to prepare and bursts with flavor
- You can customize it to suit any palate, making it a versatile side dish for any meal
- Its vibrant yellow color adds visual appeal to your plate, making it an instant hit at gatherings
- Enjoy it fresh off the grill or topped with your favorite seasonings for an exciting twist!
Ingredients for Memorial Day Grilled Corn
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Corn on the Cob: Choose bright green husks and plump kernels for the best flavor and sweetness.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for control over saltiness; melted butter enhances the corn’s natural sweetness.
Salt: A sprinkle of coarse sea salt will elevate all those wonderful flavors.
Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a delightful kick to this classic dish.
Optional Toppings: Consider grated Parmesan cheese, lime juice, or chili powder for an exciting flavor boost.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Memorial Day Grilled Corn
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If you’re using charcoal, let those coals turn white hot before getting started.
Step 2: Husk the Corn
Remove the outer husks of each corn cob and strip away any silk threads. Rinse them under cold water to remove any remaining debris.
Step 3: Soak in Water
Submerge the corn cobs in water for about 15 minutes. This helps prevent burning during grilling and ensures tender kernels.
Step 4: Grill Those Cobs
Place the soaked cobs directly on the grill grates. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they develop beautiful char marks and are tender.
Step 5: Add Butter and Season
Remove from the grill and while it’s still hot, slather on generous amounts of melted butter. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve with Style
Transfer each ear of corn onto serving plates. For an extra touch, sprinkle with optional toppings like cheese or squeeze fresh lime juice over them for a zesty kick!
Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family with this easy yet fantastic Memorial Day Grilled Corn! Enjoy every buttery bite as you soak up the sun and celebrate togetherness on this special day! For more inspiration, check out this honey garlic butter carrots recipe.
You Must Know
- This Memorial Day Grilled Corn recipe not only enhances your barbecue but also brings a burst of flavor to any gathering
- The vibrant colors and smoky aroma will make your corn the star of the show, delighting both family and friends with every bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, soak your corn in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents burning and helps steam the kernels. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and charred.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative with toppings! Swap butter for olive oil or sprinkle with cheese instead of salt. Add spices like chili powder or garlic for an extra kick, or serve with fresh herbs to brighten the flavor. Pasta primavera with seasonal veggies.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, wrap it in foil and place on a grill or in an oven at 350°F until warm, ensuring it retains moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh corn on the cob for the best flavor; frozen just doesn’t compare
- Give your corn a quick soak before grilling to keep it juicy
- Lastly, don’t rush the grilling process; let those beautiful char marks develop for maximum taste
Sharing this recipe reminds me of last summer when my friend insisted they could out-grill me. BBQ chicken for summer gatherings Let’s just say their charred offerings couldn’t compete with my Memorial Day Grilled Corn!
FAQs :
What is the best way to prepare Memorial Day Grilled Corn?
To prepare Memorial Day Grilled Corn, first, soak the corn in cold water for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent burning while grilling. After soaking, remove the husks and silk, if desired. You can grill the corn directly in the husk or wrapped in aluminum foil with butter and seasonings. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the corn for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly charred.
Can I add toppings to my Memorial Day Grilled Corn?
Absolutely! Memorial Day Grilled Corn is versatile and can be topped with various ingredients. Popular options include melted butter, lime juice, cotija cheese, chili powder, or fresh herbs like cilantro. Feel free to get creative with your favorite seasonings or sauces as well, making it a crowd-pleaser at your holiday gathering.
How do I store leftover Memorial Day Grilled Corn?
If you have leftover Memorial Day Grilled Corn, let it cool completely before storing. Wrap each ear in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it on a grill or in the microwave for a quick snack later.
What side dishes pair well with Memorial Day Grilled Corn?
Memorial Day Grilled Corn pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its smoky flavor. Consider serving it alongside classic summer salads like potato salad or coleslaw. creamy baked beans to complement grilled dishes Grilled meats such as burgers or hot dogs also make excellent companions. Additionally, fresh fruit salads can provide a refreshing contrast to the grilled corn’s warmth.
Conclusion for Memorial Day Grilled Corn :
Memorial Day Grilled Corn is a delightful addition to any summer gathering. By soaking and grilling the corn properly, you achieve a tender yet charred delicacy that everyone will love. Don’t forget to explore different toppings to elevate its flavor profile further. Plus, leftovers can easily be stored and enjoyed later without losing their delicious taste. Celebrate this holiday with flavorful grilled corn that brings joy to your table!

Memorial Day Grilled Corn
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Memorial Day Grilled Corn is the perfect summer side dish that will elevate your outdoor gatherings. This recipe features fresh corn on the cob grilled to perfection, delivering a delightful smoky flavor enhanced by melted butter and your choice of toppings. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish is a crowd favorite that brings family and friends together around the grill. Enjoy every juicy, tender bite this Memorial Day!
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- juice of 1 lime (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Husk the corn and rinse it under cold water.
- Soak the corn in cold water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Place soaked corn directly on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
- Remove from grill and slather with melted butter. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, adding optional toppings like cheese or lime juice for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (90g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg