Grilled Corn On The Cob, a summer treat

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A classic grilled corn on the cob is generously coated in butter and sprinkled with salt, making it the perfect accompaniment to hamburgers, grilled chicken, and various other dishes.

Grilled Corn On The Cob

I love BBQ season! It’s a time to enjoy sunny days with friends and family, indulging in the best summer foods like coleslaw, finger foods, and grilled recipes.

This recipe is a timeless favourite, evoking nostalgic memories with every juicy bite. Today, I’ll share how to grill corn perfectly, ensuring it’s juicy, smoky, and ready for all your summer celebrations!

Looking for more? Check out these Dinner Recipes!

This recipe is an ideal addition to gatherings, summer parties, birthdays, and any special occasion. Even on chilly days, I love making it on the Reversible Cast Iron Griddle on the stove. The warm, buttery taste is unbeatable, especially alongside spicy chicken, making it a perfect summer side dish.

Expert Tips

  • Soak corn in water for 15-20 minutes before grilling to keep it juicy. Rotate occasionally for even charring.
  • Make yours tastier by brushing it with melted butter and adding your favourite seasoning before grilling.
  • Wrap it in foil before grilling to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Variations

  • Mexican Street Style: Spread with mayo, sprinkle cotija cheese and chilli powder, and finish with lime juice.
  • Garlic Parmesan: Brush melted butter mixed with minced garlic, then top with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
  • Honey Sriracha: Combine melted butter, honey, and Sriracha for a sweet and spicy glaze.
  • Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with parsley, chives, and thyme, then spread on top.
  • Barbecue Glaze: Brush with your favourite barbecue sauce for a smoky flavour.
  • Lemon Pepper: Combine melted butter, lemon zest, and black pepper for a bright and tangy twist.
  • Cajun Spice: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy flavour.
  • Pesto Spread: Use pesto sauce for a fresh, herbaceous touch.
  • Coconut Lime: Brush with coconut milk and sprinkle with lime zest and shredded coconut for a tropical vibe.
  • Buffalo Ranch: Mix melted butter, buffalo sauce, and ranch seasoning for a creamy, tangy kick.

7 alternative ways to cook corn

  1. Boiling: Boil in a pot of salted water for 5-7 minutes until tender. Serve with butter and salt.
  2. Microwaving: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 3-5 minutes per piece until tender.
  3. Roasting: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
  4. Steaming: Steam in a steamer basket over boiling water for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  5. Grilling with Husks: Soak in water for 15-30 minutes, then grill over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and charred.
  6. Grilling with Foil: Wrap in foil with butter and seasonings, then grill over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until tender.
  7. Instant Pot: Add 1 cup of water, place veggies on a trivet, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 2-3 minutes, followed by a quick release.

Storage

After grilling, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the corn in the microwave or on the grill until warmed through.

FAQs

Grilling corn with the husk on can help steam the kernels, keeping them moist and adding a smoky flavour. To do this, pull back the husk without removing it, take out the silk, and then pull the husk back over the corn. Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, for about 16 to 20 minutes until the husk is charred.

Grilling without the husk exposes the kernels directly to the grill, resulting in a more charred flavour. Brush the corn with oil or butter and place it directly on the grill grates over medium-high heat. Grill for about 10 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking.

Soaking corn before grilling is optional. Some people soak corn in water for 15 to 30 minutes to add moisture and prevent the husks from burning. However, it’s not necessary, especially if you’re grilling without the husk or if you keep a close eye on the grill to prevent burning.

Corn is done grilling when the kernels are tender and have a slight char. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the heat of your grill and whether you’re grilling with or without the husk. You can check for doneness by piercing a kernel with a fork; it should be tender and juicy.

Popular toppings for grilled corn include:

  • Butter and salt: A classic combination.
  • Herb butter: Mix softened butter with herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro.
  • Cheese: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or cotija cheese.
  • Spices: Dust with chilli powder, smoked paprika, or cumin.
  • Citrus: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the top for brightness.
  • Sauces: Drizzle with mayonnaise, aioli, or a spicy sauce like Sriracha.

Experiment with different combinations to find your favourite flavour profile.

Yes, you can grill frozen grilled corn. It’s best to let it thaw completely and pat it dry before grilling to ensure even cooking and to prevent excess moisture from causing flare-ups on the grill. Once thawed, grill the corn over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, for about 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and slightly charred.

Grilled corn goes well with

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Grilled Corn On The Cob

Delicious Grilled Corn

Claudia
Savor the simple pleasure of freshly grilled or boiled, slathered in butter and sprinkled with salt. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings, it's a quintessential summer treat that brings joy to every bite.
5 from 8 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 165 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Cast Iron Grill or a griddle pan
  • 1 kitchen tong

Ingredients
 
 

  • 4 corn on the cob
  • 3.5 tablespoons melted butter use vegan butter for the vegan option
  • Salt to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the grill pan to high heat until it’s nice and hot. Add the corn to the grill and cook, turning often to ensure even charring, until the kernels are charred all over, about 10-15 minutes.
  • Once the corn is cooked, carefully transfer it to a plate. While still warm, spread butter evenly over each cob and season generously with salt.
  • Next, cover the buttered and seasoned corn with aluminium foil, allowing it to rest for 2-5 minutes. This resting period helps the flavours to meld together and allows the corn to become even more tender and tasty
  • After the brief resting time, uncover the corn and serve it immediately, either as a delightful side dish or as a standalone snack.

Video

Notes

    1. Preparation: Start with fresh corn on the cob and remove the husks and silk before grilling.
    2. Preheat Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the food.
    3. Oil or Butter: Brush lightly with oil or melted butter to prevent sticking and enhance flavour.
    4. Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, or your favourite herbs and spices for an extra taste before grilling.
    5. Direct Heat: Place directly over the heat source, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
    6. Uniform Cooking: Rotate frequently to cook evenly on all sides.
    7. Checking for Doneness: Use a fork to check tenderness—it should pierce easily when cooked.
    8. Resting: Let rest for a few minutes to develop flavours and cool slightly for easier handling.
    9. Serve Hot: Enjoy fresh off the grill as a side or with your favourite toppings.
    These tips will help you create perfectly grilled dishes every time!
Nutrition Facts
Delicious Grilled Corn
Amount per Serving
Calories
165
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
11
g
17
%
Saturated Fat
 
7
g
44
%
Trans Fat
 
0.4
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
3
g
Cholesterol
 
26
mg
9
%
Sodium
 
92
mg
4
%
Potassium
 
246
mg
7
%
Carbohydrates
 
17
g
6
%
Fiber
 
2
g
8
%
Sugar
 
6
g
7
%
Protein
 
3
g
6
%
Vitamin A
 
474
IU
9
%
Vitamin C
 
6
mg
7
%
Calcium
 
5
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.5
mg
3
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Nutrition

Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 3gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 26mgSodium: 92mgPotassium: 246mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 474IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword corn on the cob, side dish
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Grilled Corn On The Cob

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5 from 8 votes

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Recipe Rating




8 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    The perfect side dish for my BBQ this weekend. Loved the options you included; I did the lemon pepper variation!

  2. 5 stars
    I soaked the corn like the instructions said and it turned out great. This is a great summer recipe to keep on hand.