If you’re craving a simple yet incredibly flavorful side that captures the essence of summer, this Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Wrapped tightly in foil and kissed by the grill’s smoky heat, each ear comes out tender, juicy, and perfectly infused with buttery goodness and just the right hint of seasoning. Whether you’re planning a lively backyard barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe guarantees corn on the cob that’s bursting with classic, irresistible flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients, each bringing something unique to the table—from creamy richness to a touch of spice and an irresistible aroma. Preparing these simple components well ensures your grilled corn turns out flavorful and gratifying every single time.
- Butter (4 tablespoons, softened): The star that adds creamy richness and helps the herbs and spices adhere perfectly to each ear.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Essential for enhancing the natural sweetness of the corn without overpowering it.
- Dried Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon, optional): Adds a warm, savory depth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Ground Black Pepper (⅛ teaspoon, optional): A subtle kick to balance the buttery flavors.
- Fresh Corn on the Cob (6 ears, shucked): The star ingredient; look for plump kernels and fresh, green husks for peak flavor and juiciness.
How to Make Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
Start by heating your grill to a steady 400°F. This temperature is just right for cooking the corn thoroughly without burning the butter or the foil. A properly preheated grill will give your corn that classic smoky flavor and golden finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, mash the softened butter together with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until it forms a smooth, well-combined paste. This butter blend is key—it seeps into the kernels during grilling, making every bite luxuriously flavorful.
Step 3: Wrap the Corn in Foil
Generously rub each ear of corn with your butter mixture, coating every nook and cranny. Lay two ears per large piece of aluminum foil (or use individual packets if you prefer), and fold them tightly to form sealed foil packets. Using a double layer of foil is a smart way to protect your corn from direct grill heat and prevent any burning.
Step 4: Begin Grilling
Place your foil packets on the grill and close the lid. Let the corn grill for about 10 minutes, which allows the butter to melt into the kernels and the corn to start cooking evenly.
Step 5: Flip and Continue Cooking
Carefully remove the packets and open them cautiously to avoid hot steam. Flip each ear of corn, reseal the packets tightly, then return them to the grill. Let them cook for an additional 10 to 20 minutes—this final stage ensures the corn is cooked through and lightly browned, enhancing that smoky grilled flavor we all love.
Step 6: Serve with Extra Flair
Once done, carefully open the foil packets and serve your grilled corn immediately. A little extra butter and a sprinkle of salt on top create a classic finishing touch that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil Recipe
Garnishes
While the butter and simple seasoning shine on their own, you can elevate this dish by adding fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or even a dusting of smoked paprika or chili powder for a little heat and color contrast. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese also makes a lovely savory twist.
Side Dishes
This grilled corn fits beautifully alongside a variety of dishes. Think juicy grilled steaks, tangy BBQ chicken, or fresh summer salads like watermelon and feta or a crisp cucumber salad. It also adds a delightful crunchy sweetness to any picnic spread or casual cookout.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to take your presentation up a notch, serve the corn standing upright in a rustic wooden holder or lay them out on a large platter surrounded by fresh herbs and lemon wedges. For parties, consider setting up a “corn toppings bar” where guests can customize their ears with options like spicy mayo, crumbly cheese, or fresh herbs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any grilled corn left over, cool it to room temperature before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for quick meals or snacks.
Freezing
Freezing grilled corn in foil isn’t ideal due to potential sogginess, but if you want to preserve it longer, remove the corn from the foil, wrap it individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen corn can last up to 3 months but may lose some texture upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat your stored grilled corn, unwrap and either warm it on the grill for a few minutes or carefully microwave it wrapped in a damp paper towel. You can brush on a little more butter after reheating to revive that fresh-off-the-grill flavor and moisture.
FAQs
Can I add other spices to the butter mixture?
Absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Adding spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or cayenne pepper can give your grilled corn a flavorful twist. Just experiment to find your favorite combo.
Do I need to soak the corn before grilling in foil?
No soaking is needed here because the foil packets trap moisture, which steams the corn to tenderness. Soaking is more common for grilling corn with husks on.
How do I know when the corn is fully cooked?
You’ll want to watch for tender kernels that have a nice golden hue and slight browning. The cooking time in foil usually ranges between 20 and 30 minutes depending on your grill’s heat and corn size.
Can I make this on a gas grill as well as a charcoal grill?
Yes! This Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil Recipe works perfectly on both gas and charcoal grills. Just make sure to maintain the 400°F temperature for the best results.
What if I don’t have aluminum foil?
If you don’t have foil, you can grill corn directly on the grill grate after buttering it, but be ready to turn frequently to avoid burning. The foil helps steam the corn and keeps it extra moist, which is why it’s recommended.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil Recipe is one of those simply amazing dishes that brings people together with its warm, buttery, and smoky flavor. Easy to prepare yet impressive in taste, it’s a recipe that belongs on your summer grill rotation and beyond. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how this modest ear of corn can steal the show.
Print
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 ears of corn
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy smoky, tender grilled corn on the cob cooked in foil packets. This easy recipe uses a flavorful butter mixture with garlic and pepper, steamed to perfection on the grill, making it a perfect summer side dish for any outdoor meal.
Ingredients
Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder (optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
Main Ingredient
- 6 ears corn (shucked)
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to 400°F to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for steaming and grilling the corn evenly.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mash the softened butter with salt, dried garlic powder, and ground black pepper until smooth. This mixture will infuse the corn with rich flavor while it cooks.
- Wrap Corn in Foil: Rub each shucked ear of corn thoroughly with the butter mixture. Place the ears on large pieces of aluminum foil—typically two ears per foil packet works well. Use a double layer of foil to prevent burning from direct heat. Fold the foil tightly around the corn to create sealed packets.
- Grill First Side: Put the foil packets on the grill grates, close the lid, and grill for 10 minutes. This initial grilling steams the corn inside the foil, softening it while the butter melts in.
- Flip and Finish Grilling: Carefully remove the packets from the grill and open them cautiously to avoid steam burns. Flip each ear of corn over inside the foil, reseal the packets, and grill them for an additional 10 to 20 minutes until the corn is fully cooked and starting to brown slightly.
- Serve: Remove the foil packets from the grill again, open carefully, and serve the corn hot with extra butter and salt if desired for added flavor.
Notes
- To avoid burns, always handle foil packets with grill mitts or tongs when removing from the grill.
- Using double foil layers helps protect corn from charring over high direct heat.
- Adjust grilling time depending on your grill’s heat and the size of the corn ears.
- Add fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley to the butter mixture for a bright twist.
- Leftover grilled corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
