Tennessee Charred Corn with Smoky Butter

Introduction

Fresh sweet corn reaches new heights when charred on the Arteflame grill's flat top and slathered in rich, smoky Tennessee-inspired butter. Perfect for backyard cookouts, this dish sizzles in its own juices, locking in flavor while delivering a beautiful golden crust—all without burning. The Arteflame lets you grill every element to perfection with minimal cleanup and a flavor payoff that’s unforgettable.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of fresh sweet corn, husks removed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Place three paper napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill and pour vegetable oil over them.
2. Stack firewood on top of the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to establish. In about 20 minutes, the grill will be hot and ready—no lid needed, no fuss cleanup!

Step 2: Prepare the Tennessee Butter

1. In a bowl, mix the softened butter with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend the ingredients until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

1. Place the ears of corn directly onto the flat top cooktop near the inner hot zone of the Arteflame for searing.
2. Turn the corn every 2-3 minutes to evenly char each side, about 10-12 minutes total.

Step 4: Apply the Tennessee Butter

1. As the corn finishes cooking, brush generously with the smoky Tennessee butter while still on the grill to melt and infuse flavor.
2. Move the corn slightly outward on the flat top if needed to avoid overheating and let it sizzle in its own buttery juices.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

1. Transfer the corn to a platter and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
2. Serve with lime wedges for added brightness.

Tips

• Use butter instead of oil to boost flavor naturally on the Arteflame cooktop.
• Cook near the center for a quicker sear, or further out to slow-roast if needed.
• If using pre-cooked corn, finish it off on the flat top to reheat and caramelize the sugars.

Variations

1. Maple Bacon Bliss: Mix crumbled maple-glazed bacon into the Tennessee butter for a smoky, sweet kick.
2. Spicy Chipotle Corn: Replace cayenne with chipotle powder and add a splash of lime juice in the butter.
3. Garlic Herb Flame: Add minced garlic and Italian herbs to the butter for an herb-driven twist.
4. Sweet BBQ Corn: Mix in 1 tbsp of your favorite Tennessee-style BBQ sauce into the butter.
5. Cheddar Ranch Corn: Stir ranch seasoning and shredded aged cheddar into the butter for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

This grilled sweet corn with Tennessee butter brings out bold Southern flavors using the Arteflame’s evenly heated flat cooktop. The result is smoky, juicy corn kissed with just the right char—sizzling to perfection every time. An easy standout side that makes a regular BBQ truly extraordinary.

Best Pairings

• Grilled ribeye seared on the center 1,000°F Arteflame grill grate, reverse-seared to doneness
• Fresh watermelon feta salad for a refreshing contrast
• Homemade lemonade or Tennessee whiskey cocktails
• Buttermilk biscuit sliders with pulled pork