Easy BBQ Corn Ribs with Garlic Butter
Easy BBQ Corn Ribs with Garlic Butter transform fresh sweet corn into rib-like slices coated in a smoky, buttery garlic BBQ sauce. Perfect for summer grilling, this simple recipe delivers bold flavors and a fun finger-food experience that is great as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. Quick to prepare and versatile for variations, these corn ribs bring a healthier, veggie-focused twist to your BBQ table.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 3 ears fresh corn on the cob, firm and ripe
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, freshly minced
- 2 tablespoons BBQ seasoning (paprika, cumin, chili powder blend)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle powder (for spicy kick, optional)
- Lime or lemon zest (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan or Cotija cheese (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional herb addition)
- Prepare the Corn: Carefully slice each ear of fresh corn into 8 to 10 rib-like pieces for easy handling and eating.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the freshly minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Stir in BBQ seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined and aromatic.
- Grill or Bake the Corn Ribs: Preheat your grill or oven to medium heat (around 375°F or 190°C). Generously brush each corn rib with the garlic butter mixture. Place ribs on the grill or a baking sheet and cook for 15–20 minutes until kernels are tender and slightly charred, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Finish and Serve: Remove corn ribs from heat, brush with any remaining garlic butter, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve hot and enjoy the smoky, buttery, garlicky flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh, sweet corn on the cob for the best flavor and texture.
- Slice the corn evenly with a sharp knife to ensure consistent cooking.
- Sauté garlic only until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Monitor the grill or oven carefully to prevent burning while achieving a nice smoky crust.
- Brush garlic butter multiple times during cooking to keep corn moist and flavorful.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 2-3 corn ribs)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: BBQ corn ribs, garlic butter corn, grilled corn ribs, summer side dish, finger food, barbecue sides, vegetable ribs