Grilling corn on the cob on a Traeger at 450°F produces deliciously charred, smoky flavor with perfectly tender kernels. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the corn, creating a sweet and savory taste that’s hard to resist. This method transforms a simple summer side dish into a mouthwatering barbecue favorite.
Preparing corn for the Traeger grill is straightforward. Remove the husks and silk, then brush the ears with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Some grillers prefer to leave the husks on, peeling them back to remove the silk before seasoning. Either way works well on a Traeger set to 450°F.
Cooking time on the Traeger varies from 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of the corn and personal preference for doneness. Turn the ears occasionally for even charring. For added flavor, consider brushing the corn with herb-infused butter or sprinkling with Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of grilling.
Selecting the Best Corn
Fresh, high-quality corn is essential for grilling on a Traeger at 450°F. The right selection ensures sweet flavor and tender texture. Consider both freshness indicators and corn varieties to achieve optimal results.
Identifying Fresh Corn
Look for bright green, tightly wrapped husks. Silk should be golden-brown and slightly sticky. Avoid corn with dry or black silk. Gently squeeze the ear to feel full, plump kernels. Fresh corn kernels release a milky liquid when punctured. Check the stem end – it should be moist, not dried out.
Freshness impacts sweetness. Corn’s natural sugars convert to starch quickly after harvest. For best flavor, cook corn within 1-2 days of purchase. Store ears in the refrigerator with husks intact to preserve moisture.
Types of Corn
Sweet corn is ideal for grilling. It comes in yellow, white, and bi-color varieties. Yellow corn offers a traditional flavor and appearance. White corn tends to be sweeter and more tender. Bi-color combines both for a balanced taste.
Popular sweet corn varieties include:
- Silver Queen (white)
- Peaches and Cream (bi-color)
- Golden Bantam (yellow)
Super sweet varieties like “Sugar Enhanced” or “Shrunken” corn retain sweetness longer after harvest. These types work well for grilling but may have a different texture than traditional sweet corn.
Some regions grow specialty corn like “Oaxacan Green” or “Glass Gem” – these can add unique colors and flavors to your grilled corn experience.
Preparing the Corn for the Traeger Grill
Proper preparation is key to achieving delicious grilled corn on the cob. The process involves cleaning the corn, applying seasonings, and optionally adding butter and herbs for enhanced flavor.
Shucking and Cleaning
To begin, remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn. Peel back the outer layers, starting from the top. Strip away the husks completely, exposing the kernels. Next, remove the silk strands clinging to the corn. Use a soft brush or damp paper towel to gently rub away any remaining silk.
Rinse the ears under cool water to remove any debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel. For those who prefer to grill with the husks on, simply peel back the husks without detaching them, remove the silk, then fold the husks back into place.
Seasoning Techniques
Seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of corn. Start by brushing each ear with olive oil. This helps the seasonings adhere and promotes even cooking. Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over the corn.
For added flavor, consider these seasoning combinations:
- Garlic powder and dried parsley
- Chili powder and lime zest
- Smoked paprika and onion powder
Apply seasonings evenly, rotating the corn to cover all sides. For a more intense flavor, let the seasoned corn sit for 15-30 minutes before grilling.
Prepping with Butter and Herbs
Butter and herbs elevate grilled corn to new heights. Mix softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt. Spread this mixture over each ear of corn before grilling.
Alternative herb options include:
- Cilantro and lime zest
- Basil and grated Parmesan
- Thyme and lemon zest
For a healthier option, use a mixture of olive oil and herbs instead of butter. Brush this mixture onto the corn, ensuring even coverage. This method infuses the corn with flavor while keeping it lighter.
Traeger Grilling Basics
Mastering Traeger grilling starts with proper setup and temperature control. These foundational skills ensure delicious results for grilled corn on the cob and other dishes.
Setting up the Traeger Grill
Begin by placing the Traeger grill on a level surface away from flammable objects. Fill the hopper with high-quality hardwood pellets. Plug in the grill and turn it on. Select the desired cooking temperature using the control panel.
Clean the grates with a grill brush before each use. For cooking corn on the cob, preheat the grill to 450°F. This temperature provides an ideal balance of char and tenderness.
Place a drip tray lined with foil on the bottom rack to catch any drippings. This helps maintain cleanliness and prevents flare-ups.
Achieving the Perfect Traeger Temperature
Consistent temperature is key for perfectly grilled corn. Allow the Traeger to preheat for 10-15 minutes with the lid closed. This ensures even heat distribution throughout the cooking chamber.
Use the built-in temperature probe to monitor grill temperature. For corn on the cob, maintain 450°F throughout the cooking process. Adjust the temperature dial as needed to compensate for outside factors like wind or ambient temperature.
Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain steady heat. Open it only when necessary to turn the corn or check for doneness. Each time the lid is opened, heat escapes and cooking time may increase.
Grilling Techniques
Mastering key grilling techniques ensures perfectly caramelized corn with evenly distributed flavors. Proper heat management and corn rotation are essential for achieving optimal results on a Traeger grill set to 450°F.
Achieving Caramelization
Caramelization is crucial for developing rich, sweet flavors in grilled corn. Preheat the Traeger to 450°F for consistent high heat. Remove husks and silk, then brush corn with olive oil to promote even browning. Season lightly with salt to enhance caramelization.
Place corn directly on grill grates for maximum contact with heat. Allow kernels to develop golden-brown color before rotating. This process typically takes 5-7 minutes per side. Watch for slight charring, which indicates proper caramelization.
For extra sweetness, brush corn with butter or honey during the last few minutes of grilling. This adds flavor and accelerates the caramelization process.
Flipping and Rotating Corn
Proper flipping and rotating are key to evenly cooked corn. Use tongs to turn corn every 5-7 minutes, ensuring all sides receive equal heat exposure. This prevents burning and promotes uniform caramelization.
Pay attention to hot spots on the grill. Rotate corn between hotter and cooler areas for consistent cooking. For larger batches, periodically swap positions of corn ears on the grill.
Total grilling time at 450°F is typically 20-25 minutes. Test for doneness by pressing a kernel with tongs. It should feel tender but still have some resistance. Remove corn from grill when desired level of caramelization is achieved.
Let corn rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to settle and reduces risk of burns when handling.
Flavor Variations
Grilling corn on a Traeger at 450°F opens up a world of delicious flavor possibilities. Explore these tasty variations to elevate your corn on the cob experience.
Herb and Garlic Butter Corn
Mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like parsley and chives, and a pinch of salt. Brush this flavorful compound butter onto the corn before grilling. The heat will melt the butter, infusing the kernels with a rich, savory taste.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some dried herbs over the corn while it’s still hot off the grill. This combination creates a perfect balance of fresh and aromatic notes that complement the natural sweetness of the corn.
Mexican Street Corn
This popular variation, also known as elote, brings a zesty kick to grilled corn. Brush the cooked corn with mayonnaise, then roll it in a mixture of cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime zest.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro. The creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors create a mouthwatering contrast to the sweet corn kernels.
Parmesan and Garlic Corn
Combine grated Parmesan cheese with garlic powder, dried basil, and a touch of black pepper. After grilling, brush the corn with melted butter and generously coat it with the Parmesan mixture.
The heat from the corn will slightly melt the cheese, creating a delicious crust. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle some shaved Parmesan on top before serving.
Chili Lime Corn
Mix lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Grill the corn, then brush it with melted butter and sprinkle the chili-lime seasoning over it. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
This combination offers a perfect balance of heat, acidity, and smokiness. The lime brightens the flavors, while the chili and paprika add depth and a gentle kick.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled corn on the cob from a Traeger grill pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes and can be enhanced with simple garnishes. This versatile summer side dish complements many main courses and allows for creative presentation.
Pairings with Main Dishes
Traeger-grilled corn on the cob shines alongside classic barbecue favorites. It’s an ideal accompaniment to grilled beef steaks, juicy burgers, or slow-smoked brisket. The sweetness of the corn balances the rich flavors of the meat.
For poultry dishes, serve the corn with grilled chicken breasts or roasted turkey. The combination works well for casual backyard gatherings or more formal dinners.
Pork lovers will appreciate corn on the cob next to tender pork chops or pulled pork sandwiches. The contrast in textures creates a satisfying meal.
For a vegetarian option, pair the corn with grilled portobello mushrooms or vegetable skewers. This creates a plant-based feast that’s both filling and flavorful.
Garnishing for Impact
Elevate your Traeger-grilled corn on the cob with simple yet impactful garnishes. Start with the classic: melted butter. Brush it on generously for a rich, glossy finish.
For added flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley. A dash of smoked paprika or chili powder adds a subtle kick.
Create a Mexican-inspired elote by spreading mayonnaise on the corn and rolling it in crumbled cotija cheese and chili powder.
For a tangy twist, drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with sea salt. This brightens the corn’s natural sweetness.
Experiment with compound butters. Mix softened butter with herbs, garlic, or even BBQ spices for a unique flavor profile.
Food Safety and Storage
Proper handling and storage of corn on the cob is crucial for food safety and maintaining quality. Following recommended practices helps prevent foodborne illness and preserves flavor.
Proper Cooling and Storing
Cool grilled corn on the cob quickly to prevent bacterial growth. Remove corn from the Traeger grill and let it reach room temperature within 2 hours. Refrigerate leftovers promptly in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Fresh corn keeps in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze corn on or off the cob. Blanch corn briefly before freezing to preserve quality. Frozen corn lasts 3-4 months.
Label containers with the date of preparation to track freshness. Discard corn that shows signs of spoilage like mold, off-odors, or sliminess.
Reheating Tips
Reheat corn on the cob thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature.
Microwave: Wrap corn in a damp paper towel and microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap corn in foil and heat for 5-7 minutes.
Traeger grill: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
Add butter, smoked salt, or fresh herbs to enhance flavor when reheating. Avoid reheating corn multiple times, as this can impact quality and safety.