The Ultimate Guide to Grilled Corn on the Cob: Perfectly Charred Sweetness

When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled ear of corn. The smoky char, the burst of sweet kernels, and the melted butter dripping down your chin – it’s a quintessential taste of the season. If you’ve been wondering how to achieve that ideal balance of tenderness and smoky flavor, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about grilling corn on the cob, from prep to plate.

Why Grilled Corn on the Cob is a Summer Staple

Grilled corn on the cob isn’t just delicious – it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for an easy side dish for a weeknight dinner, grilled corn fits the bill. It pairs perfectly with everything from burgers and hot dogs to grilled chicken and fish. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to many other side dishes, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

The Great Debate: Husk On or Off?

One of the most hotly debated topics in the world of grilled corn is whether to grill with the husks on or off. Both methods have their merits, and we’ll explore each one so you can decide which is right for you.

Grilling Corn in the Husk

Grilling corn in the husk is a popular method that results in tender, steamed kernels with a hint of smokiness. Here’s how to do it:

1. Peel back the husks, but don’t remove them completely.
2. Remove the silk and fold the husks back into place.
3. Soak the corn in cold water for about 15 minutes.
4. Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally.

The benefit of this method is that the husks protect the corn from direct heat, allowing it to steam in its own juices. The result is incredibly juicy and tender corn.

Grilling Corn Without the Husk

For those who prefer a more charred, smoky flavor, grilling corn without the husk is the way to go. Here’s the process:

1. Remove the husks and silk completely.
2. Brush the corn lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
3. Place the corn directly on the grill over medium-high heat.
4. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking.

This method allows the corn to develop those beautiful grill marks and a deeper, smokier flavor that many corn enthusiasts crave.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Corn on the Cob

No matter which method you choose, here are some tips to ensure your grilled corn comes out perfectly every time:

1. Choose fresh corn: Look for ears with bright green husks and golden-brown tassels.
2. Preheat your grill: A hot grill is key to getting those beautiful char marks.
3. Don’t overcook: Corn can quickly go from perfectly tender to mushy. Keep an eye on it!
4. Experiment with seasonings: While butter and salt are classics, don’t be afraid to try different flavor combinations.

Beyond Basic: Gourmet Grilled Corn Recipes

Once you’ve mastered the basics, why not elevate your grilled corn game? Here are a few gourmet variations to try:

1. Mexican-Style Elote: Brush grilled corn with mayonnaise, then sprinkle with chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese.
2. Herb-Butter Corn: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs like basil, chives, and parsley, then slather on your grilled corn.
3. Parmesan-Garlic Corn: After grilling, roll the corn in a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Corn

How long does it take to grill corn on the cob?

Typically, it takes about 15 minutes to grill corn on the cob, whether in the husk or without. However, cooking times may vary depending on the heat of your grill and the size of the corn.

Should I wrap corn in foil to grill?

While some people prefer to wrap corn in foil before grilling, it’s not necessary. Grilling corn directly on the grates (either in the husk or without) will give you better flavor and those desirable char marks.

How do I know when grilled corn is done?

Grilled corn is done when the kernels are tender and easily pierced with a fork. If grilling without the husk, you’ll also see some nicely charred spots on the kernels.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Grilled Corn

Grilling corn on the cob is a simple yet rewarding culinary skill that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you prefer the tender steamed results of grilling in the husk or the smoky char of naked grilling, the key is to start with fresh corn and not overcook it. With these tips and techniques, you’ll be serving up perfect grilled corn all summer long. So fire up that grill and get ready to savor the sweet taste of summer!

Perfect Grilled Corn on the Cob

Learn how to make deliciously sweet and smoky grilled corn on the cob with this easy and delicious recipe. Perfect for summer barbecues and cookouts!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 77 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 4 ears fresh corn
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Remove the husks and silk from the corn.
• Brush each ear of corn lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
• Place the corn directly on the grill grates.
• Grill for about 15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking.
• Remove from the grill when the kernels are tender and lightly charred.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve immediately with additional butter if desired.

Notes

• For a different flavor, try grilling the corn in its husk. Soak husked corn in water for 15 minutes before grilling.
• Experiment with different seasonings like chili powder, garlic, or fresh herbs for variety.

Keywords corn on the cob, grilled corn

Chris Johns

Chris is the founder of BBQ Report® and has been an avid barbecue fan for over 20 years. His mission is to make grilling and smoking the best food possible easy for everyone. And each year, he continues to help more people with grilling, smoking, and barbecue recipe recommendations.