Corn on the cob is a classic summer treat that just tastes better when prepared on the grill. Grilling corn in the husk infuses it with delicious smoky flavor and keeps the kernels tender and juicy. It’s easy to make perfect grilled corn every time if you follow some simple steps.
Choosing the Right Corn
The most important factor in delicious grilled corn is starting with the best corn you can find. Look for corn that:
- Is fresh and in season – corn is at its peak from summer through early fall. Out of season corn won’t be as sweet or tender.
- Has bright green husks and damp silk. The husks should fit snugly around the ear.
- Feels heavy for its size with full, plump kernels. Avoid ears with dried out, loose or damaged husks.
- Is local if possible for maximum freshness and flavor. Corn begins to lose sweetness immediately after being picked.
Most people prefer sweet corn varieties like Golden Bantam,Silver Queen or Butter and Sugar. White, yellow and bicolor corn all taste great grilled. Avoid starchy field corn varieties.
Preparing the Corn
Proper preparation is key to perfectly cooked grilled corn.
- Husk the corn: Peel away all the outer husks and remove the silk threads from each ear of corn. Keep the innermost 1-2 layers of husk leaves attached to hold in moisture.
- Remove excess silk: Use a stiff brush to remove any remaining silk strands from the kernels.
- Soak (optional): Soaking the corn in water for 15-30 minutes before grilling can help to steam and soften the kernels.
- Add flavor (optional): Brush the ears with melted butter, olive oil or other oil before grilling. You can also sprinkle on herbs, spices or chili powder.
Soaking and adding flavoring are optional but can enhance the finished grilled corn flavor.
Grilling Corn in the Husk
Grilling corn in the husk protects the delicate kernels from drying out or scorching over direct heat. Here are some tips for grilling corn in husk:
- Grill over a hot fire. Use a two-zone fire if possible with hot coals to one side.
- Place the corn directly on the grill grates over indirect heat. Avoid extremely hot areas.
- Turn the ears frequently, about every 2-3 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
- Grill for 15-25 minutes untilkernels are tender when pierced with a sharp knife tip.
- Pull back the husks halfway through grilling to check doneness. Re-cover with husks before continuing to cook.
- Add a brush of oil or melted butter when the corn is nearly finished cooking for extra richness.
The husks will be completely charred. This adds great smoky flavor. Corn is done when the kernels are tender and filling the husks tightly.
Grilling Corn Without the Husk
You can also grill corn that’s been husked and cleaned. Here’s how:
- Brush husked ears with oil before grilling to prevent sticking and drying out.
- Grill over direct medium heat for best results.
- Rotate the ears frequently to prevent scorching.
- Grill for 10-15 minutes until lightly charred in spots and kernels are tender.
- Brush with melted butter when nearly done.
Without the husk, grilled corn will char faster and won’t have as much smoky flavor. Keep a close eye on it.
Perfectly Grilled Corn Every Time
For the best results, follow these helpful tips:
- Grill corn over indirect heat, not directly over the hot coals. This prevents scorching.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, rotating frequently. Total time is 15-25 minutes depending on heat level.
- Check for doneness halfway through by pulling back husks. Kernels should be plump and filling out the husks.
- Add herbs, spices or flavored butter before serving for extra flavor.
- Let corn rest 5 minutes before removing husks to finish cooking in residual heat.
- Serve grilled corn immediately for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Properly grilled corn in the husk is deliciously smoky, sweet, and juicy. The husk protects the kernels while also steaming them just right. Follow these steps for perfect bbq corn in husk every summer.
Corn on the Cob Grilling FAQs
Grilling corn on the cob over an open flame can take some practice to master. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How long does it take to grill corn?
- Grilling time can vary from 10-25 minutes depending on heat level and whether you grill with or without husks.
- Check frequently and grill until the kernels are tender when pierced with a knife tip.
Should you soak corn before grilling?
- Soaking is optional but can help soften kernels and cook more evenly.
- Soak shucked corn in cold water for 15-30 minutes before grilling.
What is the best way to grill corn?
- Grilling in the husk over indirect medium heat works best. Turn frequently.
- Direct high heat can scorch the corn. Indirect heat steams kernels perfectly.
How do you keep corn from drying out on the grill?
- Grill in husks to retain moisture and prevent drying.
- Brush with oil before grilling if husks are removed.
- Avoid very hot direct heat.
- Turn frequently while grilling.
How can you add more flavor to grilled corn?
- Soak corn in seasoned water before grilling. Try adding salt, sugar, soy sauce or Cajun seasoning.
- Brush with flavored butter, olive oil or coconut oil.
- Sprinkle with chili powder, cayenne, paprika, Parmesan or cotija cheese.
- Squeeze lime or lemon juice over grilled corn just before serving.
Grilled Corn Recipes
The sweet smoky flavor of grilled corn is delicious on its own but also pairs well with many fun recipes. Try topping your bbq corn on the cob with one of these recipes:
Mexican Street Corn
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of grilled corn, husks removed
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup cotija or feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Combine mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese and cilantro.
- Brush grilled corn with mayo mixture and sprinkle with extra cheese and cilantro.
Italian Herb Grilled Corn
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, soaked in water with 2 Tbsp Italian seasoning for 30 minutes
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Grill corn in husks until tender.
- Brush grilled corn with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Spicy Sriracha Lime Corn
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, grilled
- 2 Tbsp butter, melted
- 1 Tbsp Sriracha sauce
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 Tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
- Combine melted butter with Sriracha, lime zest and juice.
- Brush mixture over hot grilled corn on the cob.
Compound Butter
Make flavored butter spreads by combining softened butter with herbs, spices, citrus zest and other flavorings. Chill and slice to top grilled corn. Popular combinations include:
- Lemon garlic butter
- Basil Parmesan butter
- Jalapeño lime butter
- Honey cinnamon butter
Get creative with mix-ins and let everyone customize their own corn at your next bbq. Grilled corn is meant to be enjoyed in good company.
Conclusion
Grilled corn on the cob is a beloved summer treat that’s easy to make perfectly at home. Allow the husks to impart a delicious smoky depth while steaming the kernels. Brush on flavored butter or creative toppings like Mexican street corn for even more flavor. Following a few simple tips will ensure tender, juicy corn with sweet kernels popping with flavor. Bbq corn in the husk anytime for an easy and impressive side dish.