How To Grill Corn On The Cob (Step By Step)

When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the smoky sweetness of grilled corn on the cob. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a taste of summer, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Grilling corn enhances its natural sweetness and adds a delicious charred flavor that perfectly complements any meal. Here’s how to make the most out of this seasonal favorite, learn how to grill corn.

Ingredients:

Fresh corn on the cob (as many as needed)
Butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish

Favorite Corn on the Cob Products

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Prepare the Corn:

How to Pick Corn on the Cob

Choosing your corn is the first step in having delicious corn on the cob. While in the grocery store pull back the husk at the top of the corn to see the kernels. You want the kernels to be plump, not dry.

You also want to make sure no kernels are missing from an animal or insect nibbling. You will typically find either yellow corn or white corn. Which type is your favorite?

Peel and Clean

Once you have your corn home and are ready, it’s time to remove the husk and silk from the outside. This can be a messy process. I usually recruit my husband or a kiddo that’s watching tv and give them the trash can and a bowl with the ears of corn.

You want to try your best to remove all the silk so you don’t catch any in your teeth later.

Once you’ve cleaned the cobs, I give them a rinse and then set them out to dry. If you have uneven ends you can trim them if you want. I find that makes it easier to attach the corn holders while eating.

Adding the Flavor and Wrapping

While the corn is drying I will start tearing some sheets of aluminum foil. You want each sheet to be a couple inches long than your corn. You also want 2 sheets for each ear of corn.

Then it’s time to assemble. I take 2 sheets of aluminum foil, stacked on top of each other.

Then place your corn in the center. Add about 1 teaspoon of butter to the center of the corn.

Another great option is a flavored butter! Here is one of my favorite, Chive Butter.

If you like salt on your corn, give the cob a little sprinkle.

Then wrap that corn up good and tight. I start with the first sheet and wrap the ends of the foil over the corn, then twist it up.

The second sheet I roll and then fold the ends. You don’t want any butter causing flare ups in your grill.

Preparing Your Grill

I use a gas bbq grill. I preheat it on medium to medium high heat for about 10-15 minutes. Then I use a brush and give the grill a good cleaning. I like the heat between 350 and 400 degrees.

Once it’s heated up and cleaned your ready to grill your corn.

Easy Grilled Corn

Here’s my method. I place the aluminum wrapped corn on the grill, close the lid and let it sit there for 5 minutes.

Every 5 minutes I give the corn a quarter turn, so your corn will take 20 minutes total to grill.

Remove and keep them wrapped until you are ready to serve. They will stay hot for a good 20-30 minutes.

Optional Garnish:

Once it’s time to eat it’s great to give some options for additional toppings. Those who like it spicy will put our Spicy Rub on top. It gives a smoky flavor with some chili powder and other ingredients.

Here are some other options: