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Do you recall that summer night, the smell of sizzling on the wind, the fireflies flitting in the twilight? I was working at my aunt's lake house, assisting with the BBQ. That was where I first tasted that nutty-divine grilled corn. Brown butter? Sage? On corn? I thought those people were crazy, but once I took a bite, I knew they weren't. It was heaven! It just so happens that Brown Butter Grilled Corn with Sage isn't just a recipe, it's also a recollection of happy times and good friends, re-created and shared with you.
This recipe takes plain grilled corn to a whole new level. It's the type of food that makes people stand and really enjoy each bite. The nutty taste of brown butter, the herbal scent of sage, and the sweetness and smokiness of the grilled corn all blended together is a taste sensation you won't soon forget. It's fantastically upscale, but somehow also wonderfully down-to-earth. You know, like that effortless cool friend you always want to be!
Whether you're having a summer barbecue, need a showstopper side dish, or just want a craving fixed, this recipe is going to be a surefire winner. The process is simple, the end result far from simple. So pick up fresh corn, get your grill preheated, and let's create some magic here! Your taste buds belong to you forever, I promise!
Required Equipments
Grill
Small saucepan
Basting brush
Tongs
Brown Butter Grilled Corn with Sage (Updated May 17 2025): Frequently Asked Questions
Brown Butter Grilled Corn with Sage (Updated May 17 2025)
Elevate your grilled corn with a simple yet decadent brown butter and sage sauce. This recipe brings together smoky, sweet, and nutty flavors for an unforgettable summer side dish.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
First, prepare the corn by gently pulling back the husks without detaching them completely. Remove the silk. Then, smooth the husks back over the corn.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns a nutty brown color and smells fragrant. This typically takes 5-7 minutes. Watch it closely, cause butter burns quickly!
Remove the browned butter from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh sage. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld. Its smells divine, honestly.
Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 350-400°F (175-200°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean to prevent sticking.
Lightly brush the corn husks with some of the brown butter sage mixture. This will help to steam the corn as it grills. Be generous with the brushing! It's the key to flavor.
Place the corn on the preheated grill, close the lid, and grill for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The husks will char, but don't worry—that's part of the process.
Carefully pull back the husks and brush the corn kernels generously with more of the brown butter sage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the corn to the grill, with the husks pulled back, and continue grilling for another 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. I like mine a lil' crispy.
Remove the grilled corn from the grill and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh sage, if desired. Enjoy immediately!
📝 Notes
For an extra smoky flavor, try grilling the corn directly on the grates without the husks for the last few minutes.
If you don't have fresh sage, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried sage, but fresh is really best for this. Trust me on this one!