Maryland Grilled Corn on the Cob with Old Bay Butter

Introduction

Take your corn on the cob to the next level with this Maryland-style recipe. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill, this corn is slathered in rich, savory Old Bay butter for an irresistible flavor. With its smoky char and buttery spice, this dish makes for the perfect summer side.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of fresh sweet corn, husked
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to establish.
4. Wait about 20 minutes until the grill’s flat cooktop is hot and ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Old Bay butter

1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, parsley, lemon zest, and smoked paprika.
2. Stir until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Grill the corn

1. Place the ears of corn directly on the Arteflame flat cooktop at the medium heat zone (closer to the edge).
2. Turn the corn every 2-3 minutes for about 10-12 minutes, allowing a light char to develop while keeping the sweetness intact.

Step 4: Apply the Old Bay butter

1. Once the corn is evenly charred and tender, remove it from the grill.
2. Immediately brush or roll each ear in the Old Bay butter while still hot.
3. Season with freshly ground black pepper and additional Old Bay if desired.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Transfer the buttered corn to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with additional fresh parsley.
3. Serve with lemon wedges for a pop of citrus brightness.

Tips

• For extra smoky flavor, leave the corn partially in its husk and peel it back after grilling.
• If the cooktop is too hot, move the corn further to the outer edge.
• Brushing the corn with butter before grilling adds more depth of flavor.
• Serve hot for best results, as the butter melts perfectly over the warm kernels.

Variations

• Cheesy Old Bay Corn: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan or cotija cheese on top after coating with butter.
• Spicy Old Bay Corn: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the butter mix.
• Lemon Herb Corn: Mix in fresh chives and a squeeze of lemon juice for a more herbaceous kick.
• Garlic Butter Corn: Increase the garlic powder to 1 teaspoon and add roasted garlic for deep flavor.
• Smoky Maple Bacon Corn: Drizzle with a touch of maple syrup and top with crispy crumbled bacon for a sweet-savory explosion.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Maryland blue crabs or shrimp
• Barbecue chicken or steak
• A cold, crisp beer or citrusy lemonade
• Grilled asparagus with lemon
• Potato salad or coleslaw

Conclusion

Nothing beats the unbeatable combination of grilled sweet corn and savory Old Bay butter. This Maryland-inspired dish is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you serve it alongside grilled seafood, steak, or enjoy it on its own, it’s a surefire way to impress your guests at the next cookout.