Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a delightful and simple dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of summer. This recipe showcases sweet, juicy corn that is cooked to perfection without any hassle. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or simply craving a comforting side dish, this grilled corn will elevate any meal. The best part? It’s wrapped in foil, making cleanup a breeze while locking in the flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can have delicious grilled corn ready in no time.
- Flavorful Enhancements: The addition of butter and optional spices allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.
- Mess-Free Cooking: Cooking corn in foil prevents sticking and makes cleaning up after grilling much simpler.
- Great for Grilling Season: Enjoy this classic side during the warm months when corn is at its peak freshness.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this easy recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Aluminium foil
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides direct heat for cooking the corn evenly while adding that smoky flavor we love.
- Aluminium foil: Protects the corn from direct heat and helps trap moisture, resulting in tender kernels.
- Mixing bowl: A necessary tool for combining your butter and spices efficiently.
- Tongs: Essential for safely flipping and removing your foil packets from the grill without burning yourself.
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. This ensures that your corn will cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, mash together:
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
- Optional: ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Use a fork to mix until smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Corn
- Rub each ear of shucked corn with the butter mixture until well coated.
- Lay out large pieces of aluminium foil; you can use one piece per ear or two ears per packet.
- If using regular aluminium foil, create a double layer for better protection against heat.
- Fold the foil over the ears of corn to create packets, crimping edges securely to seal.
Step 4: Grill the Corn
- Place your foil packets directly on the grill grates.
- Close the lid and grill for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Flip the Corn
- Carefully remove packets from the grill using tongs.
- Open each packet carefully (watch out for steam!) and flip each ear of corn.
- Reseal the packets tightly and return them to the grill for an additional 10-20 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly browned.
Step 6: Serve Your Grilled Corn
- Once done, remove packets from the grill again carefully. Open them up (steam will escape!) and serve warm with additional butter and salt if desired.
Enjoy your Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil as a perfect summer side!
How to Serve Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a delicious and versatile side dish that can complement many meals. Here are some creative ways to serve this tasty treat.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Basil Leaves: Add torn basil leaves for a sweet and aromatic touch.
With Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the corn just before serving for a salty kick.
- Feta Crumbles: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese for a tangy twist.
With Spices
- Cayenne Pepper: Dust with cayenne for a spicy kick that enhances the sweetness of the corn.
- Smoked Paprika: Use smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled corn.
With Sauces
- Garlic Aioli: Serve with garlic aioli for a creamy, rich dip.
- Lime Juice Drizzle: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn to brighten up the flavors.
How to Perfect Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
To achieve perfectly grilled corn, follow these essential tips. They will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Choose Fresh Corn: Select ears that are firm and green with tightly packed kernels for the best taste.
- Use Quality Butter: Opt for high-quality butter to elevate the flavor profile of your grilled corn.
- Double Wrap in Foil: For extra protection against direct heat, use two layers of aluminum foil.
- Flip Halfway Through: To ensure even cooking, flip your corn halfway through the grilling process.
- Check for Doneness: Look for slightly charred kernels; they indicate that your corn is perfectly cooked.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings and seasonings to find your favorite combination.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
Pairing Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil with complementary side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some fantastic options:
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken pairs well and balances out the sweetness of the corn.
- Potato Salad: A classic summer potato salad adds creaminess and texture to your plate.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to warm grilled corn.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans enhance any barbecue spread.
- Watermelon Salad: A light watermelon salad brings a sweet, hydrating element perfect for summer days.
- Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad with veggies makes an excellent side that complements grilled flavors.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers add variety and nutrition to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed in Caesar dressing offers a hearty yet light option alongside grilled corn.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil.
- skip seasoning: Failing to properly season your butter can lead to bland corn. Always include salt and optional spices for flavor.
- overcrowd the foil: Packing too many ears into one foil packet can steam rather than grill them. Limit to two ears per packet for even cooking.
- neglecting preheating: Skipping the grill preheating step can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to 400°F for best results.
- ignoring cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking your corn can ruin its texture. Keep an eye on the grilling time, flipping halfway through.
- using low-quality foil: Using thin foil may lead to tearing and loss of steam. Opt for heavy-duty aluminum foil or double-layer regular foil.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
- Wrap individual ears tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen corn will retain quality for up to 6 months.
Reheating Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place corn packets directly on the rack for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place corn in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter, and grill each ear for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil.
How do I know when grilled corn is done?
Grilled corn is done when it is tender and slightly browned, typically after 20-30 minutes on the grill.
Can I use fresh herbs with my grilled corn?
Absolutely! Adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can enhance the flavor of your grilled corn.
What other seasonings work well with grilled corn on the cob?
You might consider using chili powder, lime juice, or parmesan cheese as delightful toppings.
Is it possible to make grilled corn without foil?
Yes! You can grill corn directly on the grates; just be sure to soak it first or wrap it in husks for protection.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
While fresh is best, you can use frozen corn; just cook it longer to ensure it’s heated thoroughly.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a fantastic side dish that brings warmth and joy to any summer gathering. Its simplicity allows you to customize with various seasonings and toppings. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try today!
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a quintessential summer side dish that captures the essence of outdoor cooking. This easy recipe features sweet, juicy corn wrapped in foil, which locks in moisture and flavor while making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or casual family dinners, this dish is both delicious and versatile. Customize it with your favorite seasonings and toppings, such as butter, herbs, or cheese, to elevate its taste. In just a few simple steps, you can enjoy tender grilled corn that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 6 ears of corn (shucked)
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder (optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat grill to 400°F.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter with salt and optional spices until smooth.
- Coat each ear of corn with the butter mixture.
- Wrap each ear (or two) tightly in aluminum foil to form packets.
- Place packets on the grill and cook for 10 minutes; flip and grill for an additional 10-20 minutes until tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (90g)
- Calories: 119
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
