Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a delightful summer treat that brings joy to any barbecue or picnic. This recipe showcases sweet corn grilled to perfection, wrapped in foil for easy cleanup and even easier preparation. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or enjoying a quiet family meal, this dish is sure to please everyone. The combination of butter and spices enhances the natural flavors of the corn, making it an irresistible side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation – With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious side dish.
- Flavorful Outcome – The butter and optional spices infuse the corn with rich flavors that elevate any meal.
- Versatile Serving – Great for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a side for weeknight dinners.
- Mess-Free Cooking – Cooking in foil packets means less mess and easy cleanup after your gathering.
- Customizable Taste – Adjust seasonings to suit your taste—spicy, savory, or simply buttery!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start grilling your corn, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Aluminium foil
- Small fork
- Knife (for shucking corn)
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill – Provides even heat for perfectly cooked corn while maintaining its sweetness.
- Aluminium foil – Protects the corn from direct heat and allows for steaming inside the packet.
- Small fork – Ideal for mashing butter with spices to achieve a smooth mixture without much effort.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil.
For the Corn
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder (optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
- 6 ears corn (shucked)
How to Make Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to 400°F. This temperature is perfect for grilling corn to achieve tender kernels with a slight char.
Step 2: Prepare Butter Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, mash together:
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder (optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
- Use a small fork until smooth.
Step 3: Wrap Corn in Foil
- Rub each ear of corn generously with the butter mixture.
- Place two ears of corn on large pieces of aluminium foil (or one per piece if preferred).
- If using regular aluminium foil, use a double layer for extra protection against heat.
- Fold up the foil over the corn to create sealed packets.
Step 4: Grill Corn
- Place the foil packets on the grill.
- Close the lid and grill for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Flip Corn Packets
- Carefully remove packets from grill.
- Open each packet slightly and flip each ear of corn.
- Seal the packets again carefully.
Step 6: Finish Grilling
- Return packets to grill and cook for another 10-20 minutes, until cooked through and slightly browned.
- Carefully remove from grill once done.
Step 7: Serve
- Open foil packets cautiously as steam will escape. Serve warm with additional butter and salt as desired.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil!
How to Serve Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can customize it with various toppings and sides to enhance its flavor, making it a perfect addition to any summer meal.
Toppings for Grilled Corn
- Cilantro Lime Butter: Mix softened butter with fresh cilantro and lime juice for a zesty twist.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over hot corn for a savory finish.
- Spicy Mayo: Blend mayonnaise with sriracha for a creamy yet spicy topping.
- Bacon Bits: Add crispy bacon bits for an extra crunch and smoky flavor.
Accompaniments
- Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over the corn for added zest.
- Hot Sauce: Provide a selection of hot sauces for those who enjoy some heat.
- Chili Powder: Offer chili powder as a garnish to elevate the flavor profile.
How to Perfect Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
To achieve the best results when grilling corn in foil, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions will ensure your grilled corn is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
- Choose Fresh Corn: Select ears that are bright green and tightly wrapped husks for maximum sweetness.
- Avoid Overcooking: Grill for the recommended time to prevent tough kernels; check for doneness periodically.
- Use Quality Butter: Opt for high-quality butter as it enhances the flavor significantly.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and spices; they make all the difference in taste.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil pairs well with many dishes, making it an excellent choice for summer barbecues. Here are some side dishes that complement it beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy salad that adds refreshing contrast to sweet corn.
- Grilled Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers on the grill alongside your corn for a colorful plate.
- Potato Salad: A classic picnic dish that brings creamy richness to your meal.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a light, flavorful side that balances grilled foods well.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and hearty baked beans provide a satisfying contrast to grilled corn’s flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up juices from other grilled items.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the butter mixture: Not using a flavored butter can lead to bland corn. Always combine butter with salt and optional spices for enhanced flavor.
- Using single-layer foil: A single layer of foil might not protect the corn effectively from direct heat. Always use a double layer of foil for best results.
- Not preheating the grill: Placing corn on a cold grill can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to 400°F before grilling.
- Opening the packet too soon: Unwrapping the foil packets before they are done can let out steam and hinder cooking. Wait until the designated time before checking.
- Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking time is crucial for perfectly grilled corn. Keep an eye on it; typically, 20-30 minutes total should do the trick.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
- Wrap each ear of grilled corn tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
- Frozen corn can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap corn in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place corn with a little water in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil.
How long does it take to grill corn on the cob?
Grilling corn typically takes about 20-30 minutes total. Remember to flip halfway through for even cooking.
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
While fresh corn is recommended for best flavor, you can use thawed frozen corn as an alternative. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What other seasonings can I add to grilled corn?
Feel free to get creative! You can add chili powder, paprika, lime juice, or even cheese for extra flavor.
Is Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil healthy?
Yes! Corn is nutritious and can be part of a balanced diet. Using minimal butter keeps it light while still delicious.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is not only easy but also a delightful addition to any summer meal. This recipe allows for customization; try different seasonings or toppings based on your preferences. Enjoy this classic side dish at your next barbecue!
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a must-try summer side dish that transforms sweet, juicy corn into a flavor-packed delight. Perfect for barbecues and picnics, this recipe involves wrapping fresh corn in foil with a simple butter mixture, allowing it to grill perfectly while retaining its natural sweetness. The cooking method not only simplifies cleanup but also enhances the flavor profile with optional spices like garlic powder and black pepper. Enjoy this versatile dish at any gathering, or as a comforting addition to your weeknight meals. Customize it with various toppings such as cilantro lime butter or Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 ears of corn (shucked)
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder (optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to 400°F.
- In a mixing bowl, mash together butter, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Generously rub the butter mixture on each ear of corn.
- Wrap two ears of corn in large pieces of aluminum foil, ensuring they are sealed well.
- Grill the packets for 10 minutes, then flip and grill for another 10-20 minutes until tender.
- Carefully open the packets to avoid steam and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (about 85g)
- Calories: 143
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
