Grilled Corn on the Cob
Sweet, juicy corn on the cob grilled to perfection with a smoky char. This classic American side dish is a summer barbecue essential, ready in minutes and perfect with a simple slathering of butter and salt.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400-450°F (200-230°C)
- a.Once hot, clean the grates with a grill brush and lightly oil them to prevent the corn from sticking.
- 2
While the grill is heating, prepare the corn
- a.If you haven't already, shuck the corn by peeling back and removing the husks. Remove all the fine silk strands. A damp paper towel can help grab stubborn silks. Pat the cobs dry.
- 3
Place the shucked corn cobs directly onto the hot, oiled grill grates
- a.Arrange them so they are not touching, allowing for even heat circulation.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill the corn for 12-15 minutes, using tongs to turn the cobs every 2-3 minutes. Continue grilling until the kernels are tender and have developed light char marks on all sides. The corn will become a brighter yellow.
- 5
Carefully remove the hot corn from the grill and place it on a serving platter
- a.Immediately brush each cob generously with melted butter. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra juicy corn, soak the shucked cobs in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes before grilling. Pat dry before placing on the grill.
- 2To grill corn in the husk for a steamed, tender result, soak the entire ear (husk on) in water for 30 minutes. Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. The husk will char, but the corn inside will be perfectly steamed.
- 3Don't have a grill? Use a cast-iron grill pan on your stovetop over medium-high heat. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning often.
- 4To check for doneness, carefully pierce a kernel with the tip of a sharp knife. If the liquid that emerges is milky, the corn is cooked through.
Adapt it for your goals.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
After grilling, brush the corn with a mixture of mayonnaise and Mexican crema. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Garnish with cilantro.
Herbed Garlic ButterHerbed Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with 1-2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil before brushing it onto the hot corn.
Spicy Chili LimeSpicy Chili-Lime
Whisk 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and the zest of one lime into the melted butter. Brush over the corn and serve with extra lime wedges.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Fiber
Corn is a whole grain that provides dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health, promoting regularity and helping you feel full longer.
Rich in Antioxidants
Corn contains beneficial antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to support eye health and protect against age-related macular degeneration.
Provides Essential Nutrients
It offers important nutrients including B vitamins, magnesium, and phosphorus, which play vital roles in energy production, bone health, and overall cellular function.
Frequently asked questions
One ear of grilled corn with one tablespoon of butter has approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the size of the corn cob.