How to BBQ Corn on the Cob in Foil
Grilling corn on the cob in foil is a game-changer for your next BBQ. Not only does it lock in all that sweet, juicy flavor, but it also makes for easy clean-up and ensures perfectly cooked kernels every time. This method is super convenient, whether you’re a BBQ newbie or a seasoned grill master.
Plus, wrapping corn in foil allows you to infuse it with your favorite seasonings and toppings, taking your corn on the cob experience to the next level. Let’s dive into the delicious world of how to BBQ corn on the cob in foil and discover how to get that perfect char without the hassle!
Why Grill Corn in Foil?
Grilling corn in foil has several advantages that make it a go-to method for many BBQ enthusiasts. First and foremost, foil ensures even cooking.
Wrapping the corn in foil creates a steam pocket, which helps cook the kernels evenly, preventing any undercooked or burnt spots. This method also retains moisture, keeping the corn juicy and tender.
Another significant benefit is flavor retention. Foil locks in all the delicious flavors, allowing you to infuse the corn with your favorite seasonings, herbs, and butter.
The result is a burst of flavor in every bite. Additionally, grilling corn in foil is incredibly convenient. It makes for easy clean-up and keeps the corn from sticking to the grill, making your BBQ experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Ingredients Needed
To grill corn in foil on the cob, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a basic list, along with some variations to spice things up:
Basic Ingredients
For the perfect BBQ corn in foil on the cob, you’ll need the following essential ingredients:
Fresh Corn on the Cob: Start with the freshest corn you can find. Husked and cleaned, it’s the star of the show.
Butter: Use regular unsalted butter or go for flavored options like garlic butter or herb butter for extra taste.
Salt and Pepper: These basics are key to enhancing the natural sweetness and flavor of the corn.
Optional Additions
To take your grilled corn to the next level, consider these optional ingredients for flavor variations:
- Herbs: Fresh or dried parsley, cilantro, dill, or thyme can add a burst of freshness.
- Spices: Add a dash of paprika, chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for a bit of heat and complexity.
- Cheese: Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta can give a delightful cheesy twist.
- Lime or Lemon Juice: Squeeze some citrus over the corn for a tangy finish.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle a little sweetness to complement the corn’s natural flavors.
Preparing the Corn
Getting your corn ready for the grill is a crucial step to ensure it cooks perfectly and tastes amazing. Here’s how to prepare your corn on the cob for grilling in foil:
- Husk the Corn: Start by removing the husks and silks from each ear of corn. Pull back the outer leaves and strip them away, then remove the fine silks by hand or with a soft brush.
- Rinse the Corn: Give the husked corn a good rinse under cold water to remove any remaining silks and dirt. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Trim the Ends: Cut off any excess stem or tip at the ends of the corn to make it easier to wrap in foil.
- Apply Butter and Seasonings: Spread a generous amount of butter over each ear of corn. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings or herbs you’re using. Ensure the corn is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Wrap in Foil: Tear off a sheet of aluminum foil large enough to wrap around the corn completely. Place the seasoned corn in the center of the foil and wrap it tightly, ensuring no gaps where steam could escape. Double-wrapping can help retain moisture and heat.
How to Make Lemon Dill Butter
Lemon dill butter is a fantastic optional addition that can elevate your BBQ corn in foil. It’s easy to make and adds a burst of fresh, zesty flavor. Here’s a quick recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Softened at room temperature.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill: Finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill).
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Freshly grated.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Instructions:
- Mix the Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped dill, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Chill: Transfer the lemon dill butter to a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Roll it into a log shape and twist the ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Using Lemon Dill Butter:
Once your lemon dill butter is ready, spread it generously over each ear of corn before wrapping in foil. This will infuse the corn with a delightful blend of citrusy and herby flavors, making your BBQ corn truly unforgettable!
Grilling Instructions
Grilling corn in foil is a straightforward process that guarantees delicious, evenly cooked results. Follow these step-by-step instructions to master the technique:
- Step 1: Preheat the Grill Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). This temperature range ensures that the corn cooks evenly without burning.
- Step 2: Place Corn on the Grill Place the foil-wrapped corn on the grill, directly over the heat. Arrange the ears so they are evenly spaced and not crowded. This allows the heat to circulate around each ear for even cooking.
- Step 3: Grill the Corn Close the grill lid and let the corn cook for about 15-20 minutes. Turn the corn every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. Be careful when turning the corn, as the foil and contents will be hot.
- Step 4: Check for Doneness After 15-20 minutes, carefully open one of the foil packets to check for doneness. The corn should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. If it’s not fully cooked, reseal the foil and continue grilling for another 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Remove and Serve Once the corn is fully cooked, use tongs to remove the foil packets from the grill. Let them cool slightly before unwrapping, as the steam inside will be very hot. Serve the corn with additional butter, salt, pepper, or any other desired toppings.
How Long to Grill
Timing is key to achieving the perfect char and tenderness for your corn on the cob. Here’s a breakdown of the grilling times to get it just right:
Standard Grilling Time:
- Total Time: 15-20 minutes
- Turn Every: 5 minutes
Detailed Steps:
- First 5 Minutes: Place the foil-wrapped corn directly on the grill over medium-high heat. Close the lid and let it cook for the first 5 minutes.
- Next 5 Minutes: Open the lid and use tongs to turn the corn. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents any one side from burning.
- Following 5 Minutes: Turn the corn again, repeating the process to maintain even heat distribution.
- Final Check: After 15 minutes, carefully open one foil packet to check the corn. The kernels should be tender and slightly charred. If they need more time, reseal the foil and grill for an additional 5 minutes.
Perfect Char:
To achieve a slight char while keeping the corn tender, you can unwrap the foil in the last 2-3 minutes of grilling. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and turn frequently to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled corn on the cob in foil is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses and sides. Here are some serving ideas to make your meal complete:
Side Dish Ideas
To round out your BBQ meal, here are some side dishes that complement grilled corn on the cob perfectly:
- Grilled Chicken: Whether it’s marinated, spiced, or glazed, grilled chicken pairs beautifully with corn on the cob.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing coleslaw balances the rich flavors of the grilled corn.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a classic BBQ side that pairs wonderfully with corn on the cob.
- Herb Butter: Add a dollop of herb butter or lemon dill butter for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan, feta, or cotija cheese over the corn for a delicious twist.
- Spices: Dust with smoked paprika, chili powder, or cumin for a bit of heat and complexity.
- Citrus: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the corn for a zesty finish.
Main Dish Ideas
Grilled corn on the cob pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, enhancing the overall BBQ experience. Here are some tasty main dish ideas to serve alongside your perfectly grilled corn:
- BBQ Ribs The smoky and savory flavors of BBQ ribs complement the sweetness of the grilled corn, making for a classic BBQ pairing.
- Grilled Chicken Whether it’s marinated, spiced, or glazed, grilled chicken is a versatile and flavorful main dish that pairs beautifully with corn on the cob.
- Burgers Classic or gourmet burgers, topped with your favorite ingredients, go great with a side of grilled corn, adding a fresh and juicy element to the meal.
- Steak A juicy, well-seasoned steak alongside sweet, buttery corn makes for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
- BBQ Smoked Turkey Tender, juicy turkey infused with smoky BBQ flavors, perfect and paired beautifully with corn on the cob.
Advanced Tips and Tricks
- Soak the Corn For extra juiciness, soak the corn in cold water for 15-20 minutes before grilling. This adds moisture, which helps steam the corn in the foil and prevents it from drying out.
- Use Compound Butter Enhance flavor by using compound butter (butter mixed with herbs, spices, and other flavorings). Prepare different variations like garlic herb butter or spicy chili butter, and spread generously on the corn before wrapping it in foil.
- Double Wrap for Better Heat Distribution Double wrap each ear of corn in two layers of foil. This helps distribute heat more evenly and ensures that the corn cooks perfectly without burning.
- Add Aromatics Include aromatics like garlic cloves, onion slices, or fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) inside the foil packet. These aromatics infuse the corn with additional layers of flavor as it grills.
- Rotate Frequently Rotate the foil-wrapped corn more frequently, about every 3-4 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent any part of the corn from becoming overly charred or undercooked.
- Experiment with Smoke For a smoky flavor, add a handful of soaked wood chips to the grill. The smoke from the wood chips will infuse the corn, adding a delicious depth of flavor.
- Finish with a Char For those who love a bit of char, unwrap the corn from the foil in the last 2-3 minutes of grilling. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and turn frequently to achieve a light char without overcooking.
- Flavor Boosters Sprinkle finishing touches like grated cheese, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lime juice right after grilling. These final additions can elevate the overall taste and presentation of your grilled corn.
Nutrition Facts
Grilled corn on the cob is not only delicious but also provides a range of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (one ear of corn with basic butter and seasoning):
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g
Macronutrients
- Carbohydrates: Corn is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy and fiber that aids in digestion.
- Fats: The addition of butter adds fats, including healthy saturated fats, which help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Protein: Corn contains a small amount of protein, contributing to muscle maintenance and repair.
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin C: Corn is rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health.
- Vitamin B6: Essential for brain health and metabolism.
- Magnesium: Important for muscle function and bone health.
- Potassium: Helps regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions.
Grilled corn on the cob can be a nutritious addition to your BBQ, offering essential vitamins and minerals along with great taste. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet to reap its health benefits!
Frequently Asked Questions
Recipe Variations and Ideas
Grilled corn on the cob is incredibly versatile, and there are countless ways to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delicious variations and ideas to try:
Different Butters:
- Garlic Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Spread this flavorful butter over the corn before wrapping it in foil.
- Spicy Chili Butter: Combine softened butter with chili powder, paprika, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. This adds a smoky, spicy kick to your corn.
- Honey Butter: Blend softened butter with honey and a touch of salt for a sweet and savory combination that complements the natural sweetness of the corn.
Spices and Seasonings:
- Mexican-Style: Sprinkle the corn with a mixture of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. After grilling, add a squeeze of lime juice and some crumbled cotija cheese for an authentic elote experience.
- Italian-Style: Season the corn with garlic powder, dried oregano, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add fresh basil or parsley after grilling for a burst of freshness.
- Cajun-Style: Use a Cajun seasoning blend that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper. This will give the corn a bold and zesty flavor.
Additional Toppings:
- Cheese: Top the grilled corn with grated cheese like Parmesan, feta, or cheddar right after it comes off the grill. The heat from the corn will melt the cheese slightly, making it extra delicious.
- Citrus: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice over the corn just before serving to enhance its natural sweetness and add a tangy twist.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, dill, or chives can be sprinkled over the grilled corn for added color and flavor.
Creative Twists:
- Bacon-Wrapped Corn: Wrap each ear of corn with a slice of bacon before wrapping it in foil. The bacon will cook and infuse the corn with its rich, smoky flavor.
- BBQ Sauce: Brush your favorite BBQ sauce over the corn before wrapping it in foil for a sweet and tangy variation.
- Pesto: Spread a layer of basil or sun-dried tomato pesto over the corn before grilling for a delicious Italian-inspired twist.
Additional Resources
Explore more ways to enjoy grilled corn on the cob and discover other delicious BBQ recipes with these helpful resources:
- Charred to Perfection: Grilled BBQ Corn on the Cob – Learn the art of grilling corn, from preparation to flavoring techniques, and find tips on achieving perfectly charred kernels. Read more.
- Easy BBQ Chopped Salad Recipe – This refreshing salad combines grilled corn with black beans, avocado, and a tangy BBQ ranch dressing, perfect as a hearty meal or side dish. Find the recipe.
- BBQ Vegetable Salad: A Fresh Twist on Your Grilling Game – Discover how to create a vibrant BBQ vegetable salad featuring grilled corn, bell peppers, zucchini, and a delicious balsamic dressing. Get the details.
- Best BBQ Butter Recipes – Enhance your grilled corn with various BBQ butter recipes, from smoky chipotle to herb and garlic. These butters add rich, flavorful layers to your dishes. Learn how to make them.
These resources provide a variety of ideas and techniques to make the most out of your grilled corn and other BBQ favorites. Happy grilling!
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