Grilling corn on the cob in aluminum foil is a simple yet delicious method for preparing this classic summer staple. Wrapping corn in foil before placing it on the grill helps trap moisture and steam the kernels to tender perfection while infusing them with buttery flavor. This technique also allows for easy customization with herbs, spices, or other seasonings.

The foil-wrapped method offers several advantages for grilling corn. It protects the delicate kernels from direct flames that could cause burning, ensures even cooking, and makes for effortless cleanup. The corn steams gently inside its foil packet, resulting in plump, juicy kernels bursting with sweet flavor.

While some grill enthusiasts prefer the smoky char of corn grilled directly on the grates, the foil method produces reliably tender results every time. It’s especially useful for those new to grilling or when cooking for a crowd. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, grilled corn in foil lets hosts focus on other dishes while a delicious side cooks to perfection.

Selecting Ingredients

The key to delicious grilled corn on the cob starts with choosing quality ingredients. Fresh corn, flavorful seasonings, and the right foil are essential components.

Choosing the Right Corn

Select fresh corn with bright green husks and moist, silky tassels. Squeeze the kernels gently – they should feel plump and firm. Avoid ears with brown spots or dry husks.

For best flavor, choose corn at peak ripeness. Look for kernels that are uniformly sized and tightly packed. White, yellow, or bi-color varieties all work well for grilling.

Buy corn as close to grilling time as possible. If needed, store ears in the refrigerator with husks intact to maintain freshness.

Butter and Seasonings

Unsalted butter allows for better seasoning control. Soften it before use for easy spreading.

Salt and pepper are classic choices. For added flavor, try smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, or ranch seasoning mix.

Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add brightness. Sprinkle them on after grilling.

Olive oil can replace butter for a healthier option. It helps seasonings adhere and prevents sticking.

Create a custom blend by mixing your favorite spices. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.

Types of Aluminum Foil

Heavy-duty foil is ideal for grilling. It’s thicker and less likely to tear or develop holes during cooking.

Regular foil can work but may require double-wrapping to prevent leaks. This extra layer can increase cooking time slightly.

Non-stick foil eliminates the need for additional oil or butter to prevent sticking. It’s especially useful for heavily seasoned corn.

Avoid using recycled aluminum foil, as it may contain impurities that can affect flavor.

For easy handling, choose foil that’s at least 12 inches wide. This provides ample material to wrap corn securely.

Preparing the Corn for Grilling

Proper preparation is key to achieving delicious grilled corn on the cob. Clean ears of corn and apply flavorful toppings before wrapping in foil for the perfect grilled result.

Cleaning and Shucking

Start by removing the husks and silks from each ear of corn. Peel back the outer green husks, exposing the kernels. Strip away any remaining silk strands by hand or with a soft brush.

Rinse the corn under cool water to remove any debris. Pat the ears dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

For easier handling on the grill, leave a portion of the husk attached at the base to use as a natural handle. Alternatively, insert metal or wooden skewers into the base for a firm grip.

Applying Butter and Seasonings

Brush each ear of corn with melted butter or olive oil. This adds flavor and helps seasonings adhere to the kernels.

Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the corn. For added zest, try garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder.

Herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley can enhance the corn’s natural sweetness. Grated Parmesan cheese is another tasty option.

Wrap each seasoned ear individually in aluminum foil. Leave some space for steam circulation, but seal the edges tightly to prevent moisture loss.

For easy identification on the grill, use different colored foils or mark the wrappings with a permanent marker.

Wrapping Corn in Foil

Properly wrapping corn in foil is crucial for even cooking and flavor infusion on the grill. The technique allows for steaming while protecting the kernels from direct heat.

Foil Wrapping Techniques

Start with a sheet of aluminum foil large enough to completely encase the ear of corn. Place the corn in the center of the foil. For best results, use heavy-duty foil to prevent tearing. Bring the long sides of the foil up and over the corn, folding them together to create a seal.

Fold the short ends inward, creating a tight packet. Leave some space inside for steam to circulate. This method ensures the corn cooks evenly and retains moisture. For easy handling, twist the ends of the foil to create handles.

Some grillers prefer to leave one end slightly open to allow steam to escape. This can result in a firmer texture. Experiment with both methods to find your preference.

Seasoning Inside the Foil Packet

Before sealing the foil packet, add seasonings to enhance flavor. Brush the corn with melted butter or olive oil. This helps seasonings adhere and adds richness.

Sprinkle salt and pepper directly on the corn. For added zest, include garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be tucked into the packet.

For a tangy twist, squeeze lemon juice over the corn before wrapping. Some grillers add a pat of butter inside the packet for extra indulgence. Be creative with seasonings, but avoid overpowering the natural sweetness of the corn.

Remember to distribute seasonings evenly along the entire ear. This ensures consistent flavor in every bite of your grilled corn in foil.

Grilling the Corn

Grilling corn on the cob in foil combines the smoky flavor of outdoor cooking with the convenience of easy preparation. The foil helps steam the corn while protecting it from direct flames.

Grill Preparation

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 350-450°F (175-232°C). For a charcoal grill, spread hot coals evenly across the bottom. On a gas grill, set all burners to medium-high.

Clean the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking. Brush them lightly with oil if desired.

Prepare the corn by removing husks and silk. Rinse each ear under cool water. Pat dry with paper towels.

Cut foil sheets large enough to wrap each ear completely, about 12×12 inches (30×30 cm). Place an ear on each foil sheet.

Brush corn with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Some grillers add herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Wrap the foil tightly around each ear, twisting the ends to seal.

Grilling Time and Techniques

Place the foil-wrapped corn on the preheated grill. Close the lid to maintain consistent heat.

Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning the ears every 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking on all sides.

For a more charred flavor, unwrap the corn after 15 minutes and place directly on the grates for 2-3 minutes. Turn frequently to prevent burning.

Test for doneness by carefully opening one packet and piercing a kernel with a fork. It should be tender and juicy.

Let the corn rest in the foil for 5 minutes after removing from the grill. This allows it to finish steaming and become easier to handle.

Unwrap carefully, as steam will escape. Serve hot with additional butter, salt, or preferred seasonings.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled corn on the cob in foil offers versatile serving options. Enhance its flavor with toppings and present it creatively for an appealing dish.

Accompaniments and Toppings

Butter is a classic topping for grilled corn. Try compound butter infused with herbs like chives for extra flavor. Mexican street corn-inspired toppings add a zesty twist. Sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.

For a healthier option, brush corn with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Garlic powder or smoked paprika provide savory notes. Vegetarian-friendly options include nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Create a DIY topping bar with small bowls of various ingredients. Include salt, pepper, grated Parmesan, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. This allows guests to customize their corn to their liking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve grilled corn on a large platter for a family-style meal. Arrange the ears in a fan pattern for visual appeal. Use colorful serving tongs or corn holders for easy handling.

For a modern twist, cut the kernels off the cob and create a grilled corn salad. Mix with diced bell peppers, red onions, and a light vinaigrette. Serve in individual bowls or as a side dish.

Present corn still wrapped in foil for a rustic look. Provide small dishes of toppings nearby. For outdoor events, serve corn in paper boats or on wooden boards for easy cleanup.

Consider skewering small sections of corn for appetizer-sized portions. This works well for parties or as part of a larger spread. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Corn on the cob can be prepared using various methods beyond traditional grilling. These alternatives offer convenience, unique flavors, and textures to suit different preferences and cooking setups.

Microwave Corn

Microwaving corn on the cob is a quick and easy method for those short on time. Start by removing the husks and silk from the corn. Wrap each ear in a damp paper towel.

Place the wrapped corn in the microwave and cook on high for 3-4 minutes per ear. For multiple ears, increase cooking time by 2 minutes for each additional ear.

Let the corn cool for a minute before carefully removing the paper towel. The result is tender, steamed corn ready for butter and seasonings.

Air Fryer Corn

Air fryer corn offers a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C). Shuck the corn and brush each ear with oil or melted butter.

Place the corn in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. The kernels should be bright yellow and slightly charred.

This method produces corn with a roasted flavor similar to grilled corn, but with less effort and mess.

Smoking Corn

Smoking corn infuses it with rich, smoky flavors. Soak the corn in water for 30 minutes, then shake off excess water. Leave the husks on, but pull them back to remove the silk.

Brush the kernels with butter and seasonings, then pull the husks back over the corn. Place the ears directly on the smoker grates.

Smoke at 225°F (107°C) for about 1-1.5 hours. The corn is done when the kernels are tender and have absorbed the smoky flavor. This method creates a unique taste profile that pairs well with barbecued meats.

Pairings and Side Dishes

Corn on the cob grilled in aluminum foil pairs wonderfully with a variety of vegetables and fits perfectly into larger barbecue spreads. The right accompaniments can elevate this simple dish to a satisfying meal.

Vegetables Selection

Grilled zucchini slices complement corn’s sweetness with their mild, slightly bitter flavor. Roasted carrots add a pop of color and earthy sweetness. For a nutritious crunch, consider steamed green beans tossed in garlic butter.

Cabbage wedges grilled alongside the corn offer a crisp texture contrast. Cauliflower florets seasoned with herbs make an excellent low-carb side. For a unique twist, try grilling pineapple slices – their caramelized sweetness pairs surprisingly well with corn.

A refreshing corn salad using kernels cut from extra cobs can round out the vegetable offerings. Mix with diced tomatoes, red onion, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Corn as Part of a Larger BBQ

Grilled corn in foil fits seamlessly into potluck gatherings and backyard barbecues. It’s an ideal vegetarian option that can be easily customized with various toppings.

Serve alongside classic BBQ mains like burgers, hot dogs, or grilled chicken. The corn’s smoky sweetness complements the savory meats perfectly. For a cohesive menu, choose side dishes that echo the corn’s flavors or contrast them.

Consider offering a DIY corn topping bar with butter, salt, pepper, chili powder, and grated cheese. This interactive element adds fun to the meal and allows guests to personalize their corn.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

Corn on the cob grilled in aluminum foil offers several nutritional benefits. Yellow corn, white corn, and sweet corn varieties all contain valuable nutrients.

Corn is a good source of fiber, promoting digestive health and helping maintain stable blood sugar levels. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

One medium ear of corn contains approximately:

• 90 calories
• 3 grams of protein
• 1 gram of fat
• 19 grams of carbohydrates
• 2 grams of fiber

Corn is rich in antioxidants, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health. These compounds may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Yellow corn varieties contain higher levels of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. This nutrient is important for immune function and maintaining healthy skin and vision.

Sweet corn offers a natural source of folate, a B-vitamin crucial for cell growth and development. Folate is particularly important for pregnant women to support fetal development.

Grilling corn in foil helps retain its nutritional value by locking in moisture and nutrients during cooking. This method also allows for minimal added fats or oils, keeping the calorie content low.

Corn Grilling Tips and Tricks

Grilling corn on the cob in foil requires attention to detail and proper technique. Mastering a few key points will elevate your corn from good to great.

Kernel Perfection

Select fresh corn with bright green husks and moist silk for the best flavor. Remove the husks and silk completely before wrapping in foil. Brush each ear with olive oil or melted butter to enhance taste and prevent sticking.

Season corn generously with salt and pepper or your favorite spice blend. For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the foil packet. Wrap corn tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil, twisting the ends to seal.

Place corn on a preheated grill at medium-high heat (375-450°F). Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes for even cooking. Let corn rest in foil for 5 minutes after grilling to finish steaming.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Don’t overcook corn – it should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Check doneness by carefully opening a foil packet and testing a kernel. Avoid using thin or low-quality foil that may tear during grilling.

Don’t skimp on seasoning – corn absorbs flavors well. Apply butter and seasonings generously before wrapping. For a charred flavor, unwrap corn for the last 2-3 minutes of grilling and place directly on grates.

Resist the urge to constantly open foil packets to check progress. This releases steam and extends cooking time. Instead, rely on timing and trust the process.