Grilled Corn with Virginia Butter

Introduction

Sweet, smoky, and infused with the rich flavor of homemade Virginia-style butter, this grilled corn recipe is the perfect sidekick to any barbecue. We'll be using the Arteflame grill for that iconic sear and even cook you can only get on its signature flat top griddle. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and full of bold Southern flavor.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of fresh sweet corn, husked
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack hardwood firewood over the paper napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to catch. The grill will be ready for cooking in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Virginia Butter

1. In a bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Blend everything well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

1. Brush each ear of corn with a generous amount of the Virginia butter.
2. Place the corn on the Arteflame flat top griddle, closer to the center for a faster sizzle but not directly over the open fire.
3. Cook the corn, turning occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes until grill marks appear and the kernels are tender and slightly charred.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Brush on a bit more Virginia butter while the corn is hot off the grill.
2. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh citrus finish and enjoy!

Tips

• Use high-quality hardwood for cleaner, hotter flames that enhance flavor.
• For more intense flavor, marinate the corn in melted butter for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Always keep the corn moving on the flat top to cook it evenly without burning.
• Apply a final butter brush right before serving to boost flavor.
• Try using flavored woods like hickory or cherry for smoke depth.

Variations

1. Spicy Mexican Street Corn: Add cotija cheese, chili powder, mayo, and fresh cilantro post-grill for a Mexican twist.
2. Parmesan Herb Butter Corn: Mix grated Parmesan and Italian herbs into your butter for an herby kick.
3. Garlic-Lime Corn: Add minced garlic and fresh lime zest to the Virginia butter for extra zing.
4. Sweet Cinnamon Butter Corn: Swap paprika for cinnamon and brown sugar for a dessert-like version.
5. Smoky Bacon Butter Corn: Incorporate crumbled crispy bacon into the butter before grilling.

Best pairings

• Reverse-seared ribeye or tri-tip grilled on the Arteflame center grate
• Grilled peach and arugula salad
• Cold beer or a crisp glass of Virginia Chardonnay
• Classic Southern slaw

Conclusion

Grilled Corn with Virginia Butter is one of those unforgettable sides that steals the show. Thanks to the Arteflame grill's high-heat center and zone-controlled flat top, you can prepare it to perfection every time — juicy, smoky, and loaded with flavor. It's a backyard favorite that you'll come back to all grilling season long.