Corn on the cob is a classic summer barbecue food. The sweet juicy kernels are so tasty when charred over an open flame. But constantly turning the corn can be a hassle. Cooking corn in aluminum foil on the grill is an easy shortcut that steams and roasts the corn at the same time. So, how long does it take to bbq corn in foil?
Factors That Affect BBQ Corn Cooking Time
Several factors impact how long it takes to grill corn in foil packets:
Number of Ears
- Grilling a single ear of corn takes less time than cooking multiple ears together in a packet. The more ears in a packet, the longer it will take for the innermost corn to become tender.
- For 4 medium ears, plan on 25-30 minutes. For 1-2 ears, 15-20 minutes is enough.
Size of Ears
- Larger, more mature corn on the cob will need a few more minutes to cook through than smaller, younger ears.
- Medium sized ears are ideal for foil packets. Very large or extra small ears may require adjusting the cooking time.
Grill Temperature
- Cooking over high direct heat speeds up the grilling process. Lower heat requires more time.
- For foil corn packets aim for medium high or medium heat, around 350-450°F.
Tenderness Preference
- Personal taste plays a role too. Some people like the kernels lightly cooked with a bit of crunch remaining. Others prefer super soft and tender corn.
- Cook a minute or two less for firmer kernels or a couple minutes more for ultra-soft corn.
Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Corn in Foil Packets
Grilling corn in foil packets helps steam and roast the corn simultaneously. Follow these simple steps for perfect corn every time:
1. Preheat Grill
- Ready your charcoal or gas grill for medium high heat, around 400°F.
- Allow at least 10-15 minutes for the grill to fully preheat. This allows the corn to start cooking immediately when placed on the grill.
2. Prep Corn for Grilling
- Husk the corn and remove all silk strands.
- Wash the ears well. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Optionally brush with olive oil or butter to add flavor while grilling. Season as desired with salt, pepper, spices, etc.
3. Wrap Corn in Foil
- Tear off sheets of heavy duty aluminum foil, about 14-16 inches long.
- Place ears of corn in the center of foil sheets. If cooking multiple ears, place them side by side.
- Pour 2 tablespoons water into each foil packet. Fold and seal the packets closed tightly.
4. Grill Foil Packets
- Place foil corn packets directly on the preheated grill grates.
- Grill for 15-25 minutes, with the lid closed as much as possible.
- Turn packets halfway through for even cooking.
5. Check Corn and Continue Cooking if Needed
- After 15 minutes, carefully open a corner of the foil to check doneness.
- Kernels should be bright yellow and tender. If still crunchy, reseal and cook 5+ more minutes.
- Cook longer if grilling extra large ears or for supers soft kernels.
6. Remove Foil Packets and Serve Hot
- Use grill tongs to transfer foil packets to a platter.
- Carefully open packets, watching for hot steam.
- Serve grilled corn on the cob immediately while hot and juicy.
Grilling Time Chart for Foil Packet Corn
Use these general guidelines for determining how long to cook corn in foil on the barbecue:
| Number of Ears | Approximate Grilling Time |
|-|-|
| 1-2 medium ears | 15-20 minutes |
| 4 medium ears | 25-30 minutes |
| 6 large ears | 30-35 minutes |
| 8 extra large ears | 35-40 minutes |
*Note: Add 5 minutes if grilling on medium-low heat around 325°F.
Pro Tips
- Soak ears in water 15-30 minutes before grilling for added moisture.
- Mix herbs, spices, or compounds butters into the corn before wrapping in foil.
- After grilling, top corn with extras like cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder.
- Refrigerate leftover grilled corn and reuse within 3-5 days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilling Corn in Foil Packets
How do you keep foil packets from burning on the grill?
Avoid direct contact between the foil and grill grates. Place packets over indirect heat or use a grill basket. Watch closely and adjust heat as needed.
Can you grill corn without husks or foil?
Yes, simply brush shucked corn with oil to prevent drying out. Grill over direct heat, turning frequently, until kernels are lightly charred and cooked through.
Is grilled corn still good after sitting out overnight?
It’s best to refrigerate leftover grilled corn within two hours. Kernels may dry out if left in foil at room temperature overnight. Reheat gently before serving.
Does grilling corn in foil steam it?
Yes! The foil packet traps steam from the added water to perfectly steam and roast the corn all at once. Just 2-3 tablespoons water is enough.
What else can you grill in foil besides corn?
Many veggies taste amazing grilled in foil packets! Try zucchini, squash, potatoes, carrots, green beans, Brussels sprouts, onions, etc. Meats also work well, like boneless chicken breasts, fish fillets, shrimp. Experiment with different seasonings and all your favorite produce.
Get Perfectly Grilled Corn Every Time
Grilling corn in foil packets makes for easy no-fuss cooking on the barbecue. Adjust the time based on the number of ears, corn size, grill temperature, and preferred texture. 15-25 minutes over medium high heat generally yields tender, juicy corn with nice charred kernels. Vary the seasoning or add-ins in the foil for delicious flavors. Enjoy the sweet summer goodness of foil packet corn hot off the grill!