Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a must-try dish that brings out the sweet, juicy flavor of summer corn. This recipe is perfect for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or even weeknight dinners. The simplicity of cooking corn in foil makes it an easy side dish that pairs well with almost any protein. Plus, the foil locks in moisture and flavor, ensuring each bite is tender and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy this tasty side dish without fuss.
• Flavorful: The combination of butter, garlic powder, and seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
• Versatile: Perfect for summer cookouts, picnics, or as a comforting side to your favorite dishes.
• Mess-Free Cooking: Cooking in foil means less cleanup afterward—just toss the used foil away!
• Customizable: Add your favorite spices or toppings for an extra kick or keep it simple for classic flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil, you don’t need a lot of fancy gear. Just gather some essential tools to ensure smooth cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Aluminum foil
• Small fork or masher
• Basting brush (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the high heat necessary for perfectly cooked corn with a delicious smoky flavor.
• Aluminum foil: Keeps the corn moist while preventing it from burning on the grill.
• Small fork or masher: Helps mix butter and seasonings smoothly for easy application.

Ingredients

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. Make sure it’s hot before adding your corn to get those lovely grill marks and smoky flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

1. In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Use a small fork for easier mixing.

Step 3: Prepare the Corn

1. Rub each ear of corn generously with the butter mixture.
2. Cut large pieces of aluminum foil—enough to wrap two ears of corn per packet (or one if preferred).
3. Place two ears of corn on each piece of foil (or one per packet).
4. If using regular aluminum foil, fold up and over the ears to create well-sealed packets that shield from direct heat.

Step 4: Grill the Corn

1. Place your foil packets on the preheated grill.
2. Close the grill lid and let them cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking

1. Carefully remove packets from the grill using tongs.
2. Open each packet carefully; flip each ear of corn to ensure even cooking.
3. Seal packets again and return them to the grill for an additional 10-20 minutes until cooked through and slightly browned.

Step 6: Serve Your Corn

Once done, remove packets from the grill again carefully. Open them up slowly to avoid steam burns and serve your grilled corn hot with more butter and salt if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a versatile dish that pairs well with various flavors and toppings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your grilled corn experience.

Classic Butter and Salt

• Spread additional butter on the corn right after grilling for a rich, creamy flavor. Sprinkle with sea salt to enhance the sweetness of the corn.

Cheese and Herbs

• Top your corn with grated parmesan or feta cheese for a savory twist. Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to brighten up the dish.

Spicy Kick

• Drizzle with sriracha or sprinkle some cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This adds an exciting layer of flavor to your corn.

Lime and Chili

• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn and dust it with chili powder. This combination gives a zesty, tangy bite that complements grilled meats wonderfully.

BBQ Sauce Glaze

• Brush your corn with your favorite BBQ sauce before grilling. This sticky glaze caramelizes beautifully, adding a smoky sweetness that can’t be beaten.

Sweet and Savory Combo

• Mix together honey and butter for a sweet drizzle that pairs perfectly with grilled corn. It creates an irresistible sweet-savory fusion.

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How to Perfect Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

To achieve perfectly grilled corn on the cob in foil, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Select ears of corn that are bright green with tightly wrapped husks for optimal flavor.
• Use Quality Butter: Opt for high-quality, unsalted butter to control the saltiness while enhancing taste.
• Double Wrap: For extra protection against direct heat, use a double layer of foil around each ear of corn.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Grill for about 20-30 minutes total, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Let it Rest: Allow the foil packets to sit for a few minutes after removing them from the grill; this helps steam the corn further.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different spices and toppings based on your preference!

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil makes an excellent side dish, but pairing it with other sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots that adds crunch and balances out the sweetness of the corn.
2. Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make for colorful additions cooked alongside your corn.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides heartiness and complements grilled flavors perfectly.
4. Baked Beans: The smoky flavor of baked beans pairs wonderfully with grilled dishes, adding depth to your meal.
5. Caprese Salad: A simple salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil gives a fresh burst of flavor that contrasts nicely with grilled items.
6. Macaroni Salad: A classic creamy side that offers comfort and is ideal for summer barbecues.
7. Deviled Eggs: These savory bites are easy to prepare ahead of time and make a great finger food alongside corn.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out savory dishes beautifully, making it perfect for warm-weather meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling corn on the cob in foil is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your corn.

• Skipping the butter mixture: Failing to season your corn with butter and spices will lead to bland results. Always mix softened butter with salt and optional spices for flavor.
• Using single-layer foil: A single layer of aluminum foil can cause the corn to burn. Use double layers of foil to protect your corn from direct heat.
• Not flipping during grilling: If you don’t flip the corn halfway through grilling, it may cook unevenly. Make sure to turn it for even cooking and browning.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times vary based on grill temperature. Check your corn regularly to avoid overcooking or undercooking—it should be tender and slightly browned.
• Ignoring resting time: Letting the grilled corn rest for a few minutes after removing it from the grill helps enhance its flavor. Don’t rush to serve; a brief pause makes a difference.

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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 individual ears tightly in foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Grilled corn can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap the corn in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the corn (still wrapped) on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Heat water in a pot. Place the wrapped corn above boiling water (not directly in) and steam for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing grilled corn on the cob in foil.

How do I ensure my Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is flavorful?

To enhance flavor, generously coat each ear of corn with a butter mixture containing salt, garlic powder, and pepper before wrapping it in foil.

Can I use flavored butters for Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavored butters like herb-infused or spicy varieties to customize your grilled corn experience.

What grill temperature is best for Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil?

Preheat your grill to around 400°F for optimal cooking. This temperature allows for even cooking without burning.

How long should I grill my Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil?

Grill your corn for about 20-30 minutes total, flipping halfway through, until it’s tender and has nice grill marks.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is an easy and delightful side dish perfect for summer barbecues. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors with various spices or butters, making it appealing to everyone at your table. Try this recipe at your next gathering—you won’t be disappointed!