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Easy Crockpot Corn on the Cob Recipe with Garlic Herb Butter for Perfect Summer BBQs

easy crockpot corn on the cob - featured image

This easy crockpot corn on the cob recipe infuses fresh corn with a flavorful garlic herb butter, making it a perfect, fuss-free side dish for summer BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon salt (kosher salt preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 6 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (if using), lemon zest from 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined and creamy.
  2. Remove husks and silk from 6 ears of fresh corn. Rinse and pat dry with a paper towel.
  3. Spread a generous amount of the garlic herb butter over each ear of corn, covering all sides.
  4. Place the buttered ears of corn in the slow cooker. Arrange standing up or layered to fit. Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the crockpot.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 2 hours. Avoid opening the lid frequently to keep steam inside.
  6. After 2 hours, test an ear for tenderness. If desired softer, cook an additional 15-30 minutes, but avoid overcooking.
  7. Remove corn from crockpot, brush with any remaining melted garlic herb butter from the bottom, and serve warm.

Notes

Do not skip adding water to create steam and prevent drying out. Use softened butter for easy spreading. Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted with reduced amounts. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy kernels. For prep ahead, butter and wrap corn in foil, refrigerate overnight, and add 30 minutes to cooking time. Optional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper add a spicy kick. Dairy-free option: substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot corn on the cob, garlic herb butter corn, slow cooker corn, summer BBQ side dish, easy corn recipe