How to Grill Corn in the Husk
Ever wonder how to get that perfectly juicy, smoky corn-on-the-cob taste? Meet your new summer sidekick: grilled corn in the husk. It’s foolproof, fun, and oh-so-flavorful!
Grilling corn in the husk is the best way to cook corn on an outdoor grill! This corn recipe makes the perfect side dish for summer!
Add it to your meal planning this grilling season and pair it with hamburgers, hot dogs, and all of your grilled favorites.
After trying many different methods, this is my personal favorite way to enjoy a corn cob. It makes a fantastic side dish for hot dogs, smoked burgers, or grilled salmon and is perfect for backyard BBQs.
We also love using this recipe to make grilled corn salad and Mexican street corn, made with cotija cheese, a creamy sauce, lime juice, and cilantro.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grilling corn in the husk locks in moisture and enhances the inherent sweetness of fresh corn, making every bite taste like summer.
It’s the best way to cook corn for your next BBQ, whether you’re throwing burgers on the grill or enjoying a veggie feast. Plus, this method ensures less mess while delivering golden brown grilled perfection.
What Types of Corn Work Best?
Dent, popcorn, and sweet corn are the most common types of corn grown. Sweet corn is ideal for cooking and grilling and has a higher sugar content than other corn. Our favorite kind of sweet corn is called “Peaches and Cream”, but any variety will do nicely.
How to Make Grilled Corn
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Supplies
- Traeger 780 Pro Smoker Grill – This is our Traeger model. It’s the perfect size for families who like to entertain! Be sure to check out all of our must have Traeger products.
- Large container for water
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- BBQ tongs
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Fresh corn, outer husks left on – Pick the freshest corn you can find at your local farmers’ market for the best flavor.
- Butter – Adds a luxurious richness to every bite. Use compound butter for even more flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped – A sprinkle of green that brings brightness and freshness.
- Salt and black pepper – Simple, classic seasonings that highlight the corn’s natural sweetness.
Instructions
1. Fill a large container with cold water and submerge the corn cobs (husk-on), making sure that they are completely covered in water.
2. Allow each ear of corn to soak for at least one hour.
3. Preheat your gas grill or charcoal grill to medium-high heat, about 300 F.
4. Shake off any excess water from the corn and place it directly on the grill. Grill for 45 minutes, turning occasionally, until the husks are charred and the kernels inside are tender.
5. Carefully peel the loose husks and corn silk from the corn cobs.
6. Top with melted butter, fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper.
This recipes makes four whole grilled corn cobs, enough for hungry adults. Or you can cut the cobs in half with a sharp knife to feed eight.
The most popular way of flavoring corn on the cob is with butter and salt, but you can use any of your favorite seasonings. Chili powder, seasoning salt, and parmesan cheese are great options.
Tips and Tricks
- Place some soaked wood chips on the grill for a subtle smokiness that pairs perfectly with grilled corn.
- Before grilling, trim the stalk end slightly to make peeling the husks easier after cooking.
- Use the cooler edges of the grill if the heat feels too intense for consistent cooking.
- After grilling, remove the husks and remaining silks carefully to avoid burning your hands. Let the corn cool for a couple of minutes if needed.
- Brush the hot corn with garlic butter or olive oil for an extra layer of flavor before serving.
- Mix herbs or spices into your butter ahead of time to allow the flavors to blend for a bolder taste.
This corn can be cooked without a BBQ grill! Here’s how…
How to Grill Corn Without a Grill
Shuck and boil the corn in a large pot or wrap the ears of corn in aluminum foil and cook in the oven.
Then, use a cast iron grill pan on the stove top or an indoor grill, like the George Foreman, to get grill marks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you grill corn without soaking it first?
Yes, but soaking the corn adds moisture and prevents the husks from catching fire on the grill.
How do you know when the corn is done?
The husks will appear charred, and the kernels will be tender and golden.
What’s the best way to store leftover corn?
Keep grilled corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a couple of days. Some of our favorite ways to use the corn kernels are as a simple side, in tacos, or for this grilled corn salad.
Can I grill corn without a grill?
Wrap corn in aluminum foil and bake it in the oven or use a grill pan on the stovetop for those coveted grill marks.
What seasonings work best?
Beyond butter and salt, try chili powder, parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lime with cotija cheese for a Mexican-inspired twist.
This versatile corn recipe pairs beautifully with all our summer BBQ favorites, from classic burgers to chicken and seafood. Add it to your meal planning lineup for a hit of summer flavor that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
If you love this grilled corn in the husk recipe, please give it a five-star rating and share it on Facebook or Pinterest so that others can enjoy it too.
Grilled Corn in the Husk
Ingredients
- 4 large ears of fresh corn outer husks left on
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large container with cold water and place corn cobs into it, making sure that they are completely covered in water.
- Allow each ear of corn to soak in the water for at least one hour.
- Preheat the BBQ to medium high heat, about 300 degrees F.
- Place the moist corn on the grill grates to cook for 45 minutes.
- Carefully peel the loose husks and corn silk from the corn ears.
- Top with melted butter, fresh herbs, salt and pepper.
Nutrition
