14 Summer Corn Recipes That Taste Like A Backyard BBQ

14 Summer Corn Recipes That Taste Like A Backyard BBQ bring the sunshine straight to your plate, capturing everything we love about warm weather, outdoor gatherings, and easy, feel-good food. Corn is the ultimate summer staple—sweet, crisp, and incredibly versatile—and when it’s paired with smoky, grilled flavors and fresh seasonal ingredients, it becomes the star of any BBQ spread. Whether you’re planning a laid-back cookout or a festive family picnic, these recipes celebrate corn in all its golden glory, transforming it into irresistible salads, sizzling side dishes, and even creative mains that steal the show.

Each recipe in this collection is packed with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and that unmistakable backyard BBQ charm. Think fire-roasted corn brushed with zesty sauces, creamy corn dips served with crunchy chips, and refreshing corn salads bursting with herbs and citrus. These dishes are designed to be shared, savored, and remembered. Perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and weekend grilling parties, they make it easy to turn a simple ear of corn into something spectacular. So fire up the grill, gather your favorite people, and let these recipes turn your summer meals into unforgettable moments.

Corn and Black Bean Salad with Avocado Dressing

This Corn and Black Bean Salad with Avocado Dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings. Packed with sweet corn, protein-rich black beans, and a creamy avocado dressing, it’s not only tasty but also super easy to whip up. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a delightful addition to any backyard BBQ.

Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a light meal, this salad is sure to impress your friends and family. The tangy avocado dressing ties everything together, adding a creamy texture that complements the crunchy veggies. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, requiring just a few simple steps!

Ingredients

• 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mash the avocado and mix in lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine: Pour the avocado dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer treat that brings the taste of backyard BBQs straight to your table. The sweet, juicy corn is perfectly complemented by the zesty chili lime butter, creating a delightful blend of flavors that makes each bite a burst of summer. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, making it a go-to for any outdoor gathering.

The smoky aroma from the grill combined with the spicy lime butter creates a mouthwatering experience. Enjoy it as a side dish at your next cookout or as a snack while lounging in your backyard. Either way, this grilled corn will surely impress!

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Make the Chili Lime Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
3. Grill the Corn: Place the husked corn directly on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and has grill marks.
4. Coat the Corn: Once cooked, remove the corn from the grill and spread the chili lime butter generously over each ear while it’s still hot.
5. Serve: Enjoy warm, garnished with extra lime wedges if desired!

Sweet Corn and Tomato Bruschetta

Sweet Corn and Tomato Bruschetta is a delightful summer appetizer that brings together the sweetness of fresh corn and the juiciness of ripe tomatoes. This recipe is not only bursting with flavor but is also a breeze to make, perfect for those warm evenings when you want something light and refreshing.

The combination of textures and tastes makes each bite a little slice of summer. Topped on a crispy piece of bread, this bruschetta is an excellent way to showcase seasonal produce in a fun, casual way. It’s sure to impress your friends and family at any backyard BBQ!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh corn (cut off the cob or canned)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced

Instructions

1. Combine the corn, tomatoes, red onion, and basil in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to mix.
3. Toast the baguette slices until golden brown.
4. Top each slice of baguette with the corn and tomato mixture just before serving.
5. Enjoy your delicious bruschetta at your next gathering!

Grilled Corn Salad with Bacon and Feta

This grilled corn salad is a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The charred corn pairs beautifully with crispy bacon and creamy feta, creating a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. It’s a fantastic side for any summer BBQ and can be served warm or cold.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this salad in no time. It’s fresh, satisfying, and captures the essence of summer in every bite!

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Grill the Corn: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the husked corn directly on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the corn is nicely charred. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into pieces.
3. Cut the Corn: Once the corn is cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a large bowl.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the crumbled bacon, feta cheese, parsley, and red onion to the bowl with the corn.
5. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Corn and Sausage Skewers

Looking for a quick and tasty dish that captures the essence of summer BBQ? These Corn and Sausage Skewers are perfect for your next gathering! With juicy sausage, sweet corn, and colorful veggies, every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, they’re easy to make, making them a go-to choice for any backyard cookout.

Grilling these skewers brings out the natural sweetness of the corn while adding a smoky depth to the sausage. Whether you’re planning a big family BBQ or just a casual dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. They’re not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 ears of corn, cut into 1-inch rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 zucchini, sliced into coins
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skewers: Start by soaking the wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sausage, corn, bell peppers, and zucchini. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything to coat evenly.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the sausage, corn, bell peppers, and zucchini onto the soaked skewers. Alternate the ingredients for a colorful presentation.
4. Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Allow them to cool for a minute before serving. These skewers are perfect on their own or served with your favorite dipping sauce!

Corn and Zucchini Fritters with Feta

Corn and zucchini fritters with feta are the perfect addition to your summer menu. They are light, crispy, and packed with flavor, making them a delightful treat for any backyard BBQ. The sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with the fresh, mild taste of zucchini, while the feta adds a salty tang that elevates the dish.

Making these fritters is a breeze, and they come together in no time. Simply mix the ingredients, fry them to golden perfection, and enjoy them hot. Serve them with a dollop of yogurt or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra zing!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine corn, grated zucchini, feta, flour, eggs, baking powder, salt, pepper, and herbs. Stir until well blended.
3. Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
4. Fry the Fritters: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Serve: Remove the fritters from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with yogurt or your favorite sauce.

Spicy Corn Fritters with Cilantro Lime Dip

Spicy corn fritters bring a burst of flavor to any summer gathering. These little bites are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a must-try for anyone who loves corn. With a hint of spice and a refreshing cilantro lime dip, they’re perfect as an appetizer or a side dish at your next backyard BBQ.

What makes these fritters so great is how simple they are to whip up. Just mix your ingredients, fry them to golden perfection, and serve with a zesty dip. They’re sure to be a hit with friends and family alike!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh corn kernels
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the corn, flour, cornmeal, eggs, baking powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the green onions and cilantro.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each fritter and drop it into the oil.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
5. For the cilantro lime dip, simply mix sour cream, lime juice, and chopped cilantro in a bowl. Serve alongside the fritters.

Barbecue Corn Chowder

Barbecue corn chowder brings the delicious taste of summer right into your bowl. Creamy, savory, and slightly smoky, this chowder is a perfect dish to cool off during warm days and enjoy with friends and family. It’s simple to whip up, requiring just a few fresh ingredients and minimal cooking time, making it a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend backyard gathering.

This chowder combines sweet corn, potatoes, and aromatic herbs to create a comforting dish that feels hearty yet refreshing. Topped with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley and paired with crusty bread, it’s a satisfying way to celebrate the flavors of summer.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6 ears of corn)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn kernels, heavy cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree part of the chowder for a creamy consistency, while leaving some corn and potato chunks for texture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley, alongside crusty bread for dipping.

Corn and Avocado Tacos

These Corn and Avocado Tacos are a fresh and vibrant way to enjoy summer’s bounty. Combining sweet corn with creamy avocado delivers a taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The contrast of textures and flavors makes these tacos a delightful option for any casual gathering.

Simple to whip up, you can have these on the table in no time. They’re perfect for a backyard BBQ or a light summer meal. Plus, the addition of lime and cilantro gives them a zesty kick that complements the natural sweetness of corn.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or canned corn, drained)
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red or yellow)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, diced avocado, bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Add lime juice, and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss to combine without mashing the avocado.
3. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until pliable.
4. Fill each tortilla with the corn and avocado mixture, and serve immediately.

Corn Pudding with Smoky Bacon

Corn pudding with smoky bacon is a delightful addition to any summer gathering. This dish brings together sweet corn and creamy textures, topped with crispy bacon for a savory twist. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for backyard barbecues or family dinners.

The combination of corn’s natural sweetness and the smokiness from the bacon creates a flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your summer meals.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh corn (or canned, drained)
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the corn, milk, cream, eggs, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add Cheese and Bacon: Fold in the shredded cheese and half of the crumbled bacon.
4. Pour and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the remaining bacon, and let it cool slightly before serving.

Grilled Corn and Shrimp Salad

Grilled Corn and Shrimp Salad is a refreshing dish that brings together the sweet, smoky flavors of grilled corn and perfectly cooked shrimp. This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for a summer gathering. The combination of juicy shrimp and crunchy corn, paired with a tangy dressing, makes for a delightful bite that screams summer.

This salad is light yet satisfying, ideal for those hot days when you want something fresh and flavorful. Toss in some diced bell peppers and a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing. It’s simple, quick to make, and perfect for sharing at your next backyard BBQ!

Ingredients

• 2 ears of fresh corn, husked
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Grill the Corn: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Cook the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
3. Prepare the Salad: Once the corn is cool, cut the kernels off the cob. In a large bowl, combine the corn, grilled shrimp, diced bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
4. Toss with Dressing: Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and mix everything well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve: Enjoy the salad chilled or at room temperature!

Sweet Corn Ice Cream

Sweet corn ice cream is a delightful twist on traditional ice cream that captures the essence of summer. With its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, this treat is surprisingly simple to make and showcases fresh corn’s natural flavor. It’s a fantastic way to cool down on a hot day while enjoying the sweet, mellow notes of corn.

Perfect for outdoor gatherings or as a unique dessert, this ice cream will surely impress your friends and family. Serve it in a cone or a dish, and watch as they savor every scoop!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh sweet corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large egg yolks

Instructions

1. Blend the Corn: In a blender, combine the corn kernels and milk. Blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the solids, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible.
2. Heat the Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the corn milk mixture, cream, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Heat over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
3. Whisk the Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly pour in a little of the hot corn mixture into the yolks, stirring constantly to temper them. Gradually whisk the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
4. Cook Until Thickened: Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.
5. Chill and Churn: Once cooled, refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours or overnight. Then, churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

Elote-Style Corn Dip

This Elote-style corn dip is a perfect blend of creamy and zesty flavors. Inspired by the popular Mexican street corn, it combines sweet corn with tangy lime, rich cheese, and a touch of spices. It’s a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer barbecues and makes for a fantastic appetizer.

Easy to whip up, this dip requires minimal prep time and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with tortilla chips, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “delicious!” Perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or canned)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded Cotija cheese
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth.
2. Mix in the corn, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and half of the Cotija cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle the remaining Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro on top.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips for dipping.

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish bursting with flavor. It combines the sweet taste of corn with creamy dressing and tangy cheese, making it a delightful addition to any summer meal. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the sunshine.

The combination of fresh vegetables, zesty lime, and a touch of heat creates a balanced flavor profile that’s perfect for backyard BBQs. This salad is not just a side; it can be a meal on its own!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
• 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, bell peppers, red onion, and queso fresco.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well-coated.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature!

Final thoughts

There’s just something magical about summer corn—it’s sweet, smoky, and endlessly comforting. With these 14 recipes, you’ll have everything you need to channel that backyard BBQ feeling all season long. Whether you’re grilling under the stars or setting up a picnic in your backyard, these dishes bring people together and highlight the best flavors summer has to offer. So dig in, experiment, and let corn be the heart of your next unforgettable summer feast.