Ultimate Guide to the Best Grilled Corn on the Cob Recipe
Master the hybrid husk trick and creative butter blends for unparalleled summer sides.
Fresh, sweet, and kissed by the fire, grilled corn on the cob is the ultimate summer side dish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or craving a simple, smoky snack, this foolproof recipe delivers juicy, flavorful kernels every time—plus, you’ll learn expert tips for selecting, prepping, and seasoning your corn for maximum impact.
Choosing the Best Corn
The secret to perfect grilled corn starts with choosing the freshest ears. Here’s what to look for:
- Season: Buy corn during peak summer months when it’s at its sweetest and juiciest.
- Appearance: Select ears with tight, green husks and light golden tassels—avoid those with black or dried-out tops.
- Feel: The kernels should feel plump through the husk; gently squeeze the ear to check.
Truly fresh corn is so delicious, it barely needs cooking, but grilling brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth you can’t get from boiling alone.
Grilling Techniques: Husks On, Off, or Hybrid?
One of the great debates of summer grilling is whether to cook corn in the husk, without it, or somewhere in between. Here’s a breakdown of each method:
- Husks On: Provides natural steam and moisture, resulting in tender, juicy kernels. Soak the corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent the husks from burning.
- Husks Off: Exposes kernels directly to the heat, creating charred, caramelized spots for a smoky, crisp texture.
- Hybrid Method: As featured in this recipe, peel back all but the two innermost husk layers. Remove the silks, then fold the husks back over the kernels, leaving gaps for direct grilling. This technique combines the best of both worlds—moisture and char.
Step-by-Step Grilled Corn on the Cob Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ears yellow corn, in the husk
- Kosher salt, for serving
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- 1/4 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Grill: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over high heat (about 450–500°F).
- Prep the Corn: Peel off the outer layers of the husk, leaving the two innermost layers. Pull these back, remove all silks, then fold the reserved husk back over the kernels, leaving some gaps exposed.
- Grill the Corn: Place the corn on the grill over direct heat, cover, and cook for 5 minutes. Rotate each ear by a quarter turn, cover, and cook another 5 minutes. Repeat this process until all sides are cooked, about 15–20 minutes total. The kernels should be bright yellow and lightly caramelized in spots.
- Make the Garlic-Chive Butter: In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter, garlic, chives, paprika, and black pepper until well combined.
- Serve: Remove the charred husks, spread the corn generously with garlic-chive butter, sprinkle with kosher salt, and enjoy immediately. For a classic touch, skip the flavored butter and simply top with salted butter and more salt!
Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the sky’s the limit for creative flavor combinations. Try these ideas to spice up your grilled corn:
- Spicy Bacon Butter: Mix crumbled bacon, pickled jalapeños, parsley, and reserved bacon fat into softened butter for a smoky, spicy kick. Spread onto shucked corn, wrap in foil, and grill for about 6 minutes, turning once.
- Cheese and Lime: After grilling, sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese or feta, a squeeze of fresh lime, and a pinch of chili powder for a Mexican-inspired favorite.
- Soy and Honey Glaze: Brush grilled corn with a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil, then sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Fresh Herbs: Add chopped cilantro, parsley, or dill to your butter mixture for a fragrant finish.
Consider serving your grilled corn alongside classic BBQ favorites like pulled pork, grilled chicken, or a fresh summer salad for a complete meal.
Grilled Corn FAQs and Grilling Tips
Do you need to boil corn before grilling?
No, boiling corn before grilling is unnecessary for this recipe. The grill’s heat is sufficient to cook and tenderize the kernels without the extra step of boiling, streamlining your prep time and enhancing flavor.
How long should you soak corn before grilling?
Soaking is optional. Many grillers soak unshucked corn in salted water for about 30 minutes before grilling to season the kernels and provide moisture. However, if your corn is truly fresh, soaking isn’t required—grilling directly will yield delicious results.
What’s the best way to grill corn: husk on or off?
What others are reading
Both methods work, but this recipe’s hybrid approach—with some but not all of the husk removed—delivers moisture and caramelization for the best flavor and texture. Experiment to find your favorite.
How do you know when grilled corn is done?
Grill until the kernels are bright yellow, tender, and starting to caramelize—about 15–20 minutes, rotating to cook evenly on all sides. Some charred spots are desirable for added flavor and presentation.
Can you grill corn on a grill pan indoors?
Yes, a grill pan over high heat works just as well as an outdoor grill for achieving caramelization and smokiness.
Corn Selection and Storage Tips
To ensure the best results from your grilled corn, follow these storage and prep tips:
- Buy Fresh: Try to grill corn the same day you buy it for maximum sweetness.
- Store Properly: If you must store corn, keep it in the refrigerator in its husk. Use within two days for the best flavor and texture.
- Trimming: Before grilling, remove any dry or discolored parts of the husk, but keep enough to protect and steam the kernels.
Nutritional Benefits of Corn
Corn isn’t just delicious—it’s also nutritious. Here are a few health benefits:
- Fiber: A good source of fiber, supporting digestion and heart health.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Provides vitamin C, magnesium, and B vitamins.
- Antioxidants: Contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health.
Conclusion
Grilled corn on the cob is a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. By choosing fresh ears, mastering the hybrid husk method, and experimenting with flavored butters and toppings, you can take this classic summer side from ordinary to extraordinary. Fire up the grill, follow these expert tips, and enjoy your best corn yet!
Quick Reference Table: Grilling Methods at a Glance
| Method | Prep | Grill Time | Texture/Flavor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Husks On (Soaked) | Soak 30 min | 15–20 min | Juicy, steamed, mild char |
| Husks Off | Shuck completely | 10–15 min | Charred, smoky, crispy |
| Hybrid (Recommended) | Peel back most husk, remove silk, fold back | 15–20 min | Moist, caramelized, balanced |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to soak corn before grilling?
Soaking is optional and mainly used to keep the husk from burning and to add moisture, but is not necessary with very fresh corn.
What’s the best butter for grilled corn?
Salted butter is classic, but flavored butters like garlic-chive or spicy bacon butter take grilled corn to the next level.
Can I make grilled corn ahead of time?
Grilled corn is best served immediately. If you must prepare ahead, grill and reheat briefly before serving.
Is grilled corn healthy?
Corn is naturally low in fat, a good source of fiber, and contains essential vitamins. Go easy on the butter and salt for a healthier option.
Can I grill frozen corn on the cob?
Fresh is best, but thaw frozen corn completely and pat dry before grilling for best results.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a35939987/grilled-corn-on-the-cob/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32345419/grilled-corn-with-spicy-bacon-butter-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLEGiEZbj5s
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/a32188521/how-long-to-boil-corn/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g35993911/best-corn-recipes/
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