If you’re on the hunt for a super easy but incredibly flavorful way to enjoy fresh corn, the Crock Pot Corn on the Cob with Parsley Butter Recipe is a total game-changer. This method lets you bring out the natural sweetness of the corn while infusing it with a luscious herb-infused butter that turns every bite into a celebration. The slow cooker does all the hard work while you relax, making it perfect for busy days or when you want to prepare a crowd-pleasing treat without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, but each one plays an important role in the final dish’s taste, texture, and color. From the fresh ears of corn to the fragrant parsley butter, everything comes together beautifully in this recipe.
- 6 to 8 ears corn (husked and cleaned): Fresh, sweet corn is the star of the show and the base of this recipe.
- 2 tablespoons oil: A light coating helps season the corn and prevents sticking during cooking.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Adds the perfect balance of seasoning to enhance natural flavors.
- ½ cup water: Steams the corn gently in the slow cooker, keeping it moist and tender.
- ¼ cup butter (softened): Creates that rich, creamy texture essential for a comforting bite.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal burst of flavor and vibrant color to the butter.
How to Make Crock Pot Corn on the Cob with Parsley Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Corn
The first step is super simple but crucial for flavor. Brush each ear of corn lightly with oil, which not only helps seasoning stick but also gives the corn a shiny, delicious appearance once cooked. Then, season each ear with a bit of salt and black pepper—remember, less at this stage means you can adjust later to perfect the taste.
Step 2: Add Water and Place Corn in Slow Cooker
Pour ½ cup of water into your slow cooker (around 6 quarts size works best). This small amount of water creates steam that gently cooks the corn, making it tender without drying it out. Arrange the prepared corn inside and cover with the lid to trap all that lovely moisture.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your slow cooker to HIGH and let it work its magic for 2 and a half to 4 hours. The exact timing depends on how large and fresh your corn is, and also on your slow cooker’s heat settings. Start checking after 2 and a half hours to make sure the corn is tender and bright yellow—this is the sign it’s ready.
Step 4: Turn Off the Slow Cooker
Once the corn is perfectly cooked, hot, and bursting with that golden color, turn off the slow cooker. This simple step helps keep your corn fresh and ready for the finishing touches without overcooking.
Step 5: Brush with Parsley Butter and Serve
Now for the best part! Mix the softened butter with the finely chopped parsley to create a luscious, flavorful spread. Generously brush this parsley butter over each ear of corn, letting the herbaceous notes complement the natural sweetness. Add a little more salt if needed, and serve immediately for the ultimate bite of happiness.
How to Serve Crock Pot Corn on the Cob with Parsley Butter Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to turn this classic into a bit of a showstopper, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the parsley butter. A few lemon zest curls also add a fresh zing that pairs beautifully with the buttery corn.
Side Dishes
Corn on the cob with parsley butter is a natural companion to almost any meal. It pairs especially well with grilled meats, barbecued chicken, or a fresh summer salad. The light herb butter balances hearty flavors perfectly, making it a must-have side on picnic or holiday menus.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the corn standing upright in a large rustic bowl or wooden crate lined with a colorful napkin. You can also thread the corn onto skewers for easy serving at outdoor parties. Wrapping each ear in foil after brushing with parsley butter makes for a cute, individual presentation and keeps them warm longer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Crock Pot Corn on the Cob with Parsley Butter Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Leaving the butter off until reheating helps maintain freshness and prevents sogginess.
Freezing
Corn on the cob freezes well, but since this recipe includes fresh parsley butter, it’s best to freeze the cooked corn separately. Wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Add freshly made parsley butter after thawing and reheating for the best flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, steam or microwave the corn gently until warm. Then generously brush with fresh parsley butter—you’ll recapture all that bright, fresh taste as if the corn were just cooked moments ago.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh for the Crock Pot Corn on the Cob with Parsley Butter Recipe?
While fresh corn yields the best results in this recipe, you can use frozen corn on the cob as a substitute. Just reduce the cooking time since frozen corn will cook faster. Adjust seasoning after cooking for the perfect finish.
What type of slow cooker is best for this recipe?
A standard 6-quart slow cooker works great for the Crock Pot Corn on the Cob with Parsley Butter Recipe, giving enough space for 6 to 8 ears of corn. Make sure your slow cooker heats evenly for consistent results.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
The recipe is naturally vegetarian, but to make it vegan, simply substitute the butter with your favorite plant-based butter or olive oil. The parsley still adds wonderful flavor and freshness!
Is it necessary to brush the corn with oil before cooking?
Brushing with a little oil helps the seasoning stick and gives the corn a nice texture after cooking. It’s a simple step that enhances flavor and appearance, so it’s worth including.
How do I know when the corn is perfectly cooked in the Crock Pot Corn on the Cob with Parsley Butter Recipe?
The corn should be bright yellow, tender when pierced with a fork, and heated through. Time can vary, so start checking around the 2 and a half hour mark to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Corn on the Cob with Parsley Butter Recipe is one of those simple yet spectacular dishes that can turn any meal into something special. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, this slow-cooker method transforms humble corn into a buttery, herby delight that’s sure to become a favorite. Give it a go and enjoy every buttery, fresh, tender bite!
Print
Crock Pot Corn on the Cob with Parsley Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple and flavorful recipe for perfectly cooked corn on the cob made effortlessly in a crock pot. This method allows the corn to simmer slowly, resulting in tender, juicy ears infused with butter and fresh parsley, ideal for a hands-off side dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 ears corn (husked and cleaned)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare Corn: Brush each ear of corn lightly with oil, then season with a small amount of salt and black pepper. Apply seasoning sparingly as more can be added after cooking.
- Add Water and Corn to Crock Pot: Pour ½ cup of water into a 6-quart slow cooker. Place the prepared corn inside and cover with the lid to trap steam.
- Cook Corn: Set the slow cooker on HIGH and cook for 2.5 to 4 hours. Cooking time varies based on corn size, quantity, and specific slow cooker model. Begin checking tenderness after 2.5 hours.
- Check Readiness: When the corn is bright yellow and heated thoroughly throughout each ear, turn off the slow cooker.
- Finish and Serve: In a small bowl, mix softened butter with finely chopped parsley. Brush this mixture liberally over the hot corn. Adjust salt to taste and serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Using fresh corn on the cob enhances sweetness and texture.
- Cooking time may vary; check corn periodically to avoid overcooking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the butter mixture.
- Leftover cooked corn can be refrigerated and reheated gently.
- Slow cooking keeps corn moist and tender without the need for boiling water.
