Grilled Corn on the Cob
You’ll love this easy and delicious Grilled Corn on the Cob recipe. Cooked on the BBQ in parmesan, butter and wrapped in foil. Full flavour in every bite, and the best easy summer side dish!
Call me a creature of habit (or just stubborn), yet I’ve always just boiled corn on the cob. It’s how I’ve always cooked corn on the con, and never considered that it could be cooked differently. After all, it always tasted good so why change it? Does this sound familiar?
While at the farmers market a couple weekends ago, I bought some fresh corn on the cob. While waiting in line, a couple next to me were talking about grilling the corn they just paid for. As I walked away I started thinking about why I hadn’t tried grilling corn before.
When I got home, I called a couple friends and brought up this ever-pressing issue. Turns out I wasn’t alone – none of them have tried grilling corn on the cob either. Perhaps many of us are stuck in our (culinary) ways somewhat. Well, I vowed to change that!
So for the first time I grilled corn on the cob and it make me sit back and think, ‘WOW’. A few days later, I had to go back for more. Color me excited, I overcame my culinary stubbornness and found a new recipe.
Barbecue corn on the cob results in the best corn with some great options for variations. That grilled summer taste is great for at home or when out camping.
You might also like our Air Fryer Corn on the Cob, it’s super easy!
Speaking of changing habits, I finally ditched canned and made my own Homemade Roasted Tomato Soup. Life changing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Total Time: 30 Minutes
- Serves: 4
Ingredients and Notes
As always, the full ingredients and recipe is on the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
Recipe Variations
- Spices & Herbs – Feel free to use smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder to bring warmth and depth that complement the natural sweetness of the corn. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add brightness; if fresh isn’t on hand, dried versions will do.
- Lime Juice – A splash of lime juice brightens everything up with its sharp tang and balances the smoky richness.
Tips for Success
How to Make Barbecue Corn on the Cob
- Heat barbecue to medium-high heat.
- Husk each cob and rinse corn cob under cold water; gently shake off excess water. Wrap ears individually in foil.
- Grill 15 to 20 min. or until corn is tender, turning occasionally. Meanwhile, mix remaining ingredients until blended.
- Spread grilled sweet corn with flavoured butter just before serving.
You can also butter and season the corn before wrapping in foil, to hold in and allow flavors to soak into the corn kernels.
What To Serve With Barbecue Corn on the Cob
Grilled Meats – Barbecue corn is a classic side for burgers, grilled chicken like our Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken Skewers, ribs, or steaks, complementing hearty smoky flavors with its sweet, charred contrast. Our Margarita Grilled Chicken, is one example.
Salads such as our BLT Pasta Salad and Classic Potato Salad are a great side dish choice. They add a crunchy, tangy element that contrasts well with the warmth and texture of grilled corn.
Dessert Pairing Suggestions
Key Lime Cake or our Margarita Key Lime Pie offers a refreshing citrus counterpoint that cleanses the palate after a smoky, rich meal.
A delicious Blackberry Cobbler with a buttery crust adds cozy sweetness and a homestyle touch to a summer barbecue.
Storing Leftovers & Freezing
Storage: Wrap leftover grilled corn in damp paper towels and place in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the refrigerator. Eat within 2-3 days for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing: Barbecue corn is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, let the cobs cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating on the grill or in the oven.
How To Reheat Grilled Corn on the Cob
Oven Method
- Best for: Maintaining a warm, slightly crispy texture without drying out the corn.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the corn cobs in aluminum foil to lock in moisture and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave Method
- Best for: Quick reheating when time is short.
- Place the corn on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth, but expect softer kernels and less smoky aroma.
Grill Method
- Best for: Revitalizing the smoky flavor and adding a fresh char.
- Place the leftover corn directly on the grill over medium heat, rotating frequently for 5-7 minutes. This method refreshes the smoky notes and crisps the husk lightly.
Stovetop Method
- Best for: A gentle warming option.
- Cook corn in a pan with a lid and a splash of water. Cover and steam over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to warm evenly without drying out.
Ways to Use Leftover Grilled Corn
Of course you can store and reheat grilled corn as per the directions above, and have it as an easy side dish the next day.
Or you can use leftover corn to make a Corn Salad, in Mexican Street Corn, use in our Easy Southwest Chicken Skillet, or add into our Mexican Fiesta Rice as a new side dish.
Recipe FAQ
Yes, you can grill corn without the husks for a more direct char, but be sure to brush the corn with oil or butter and turn frequently to prevent burning, or wrap in foil to prevent burning and drying out.
Look for a mix of golden-brown char marks and softened, juicy kernels. Typically, it takes about 15-20 minutes over medium heat with frequent turning.
More Barbecue recipes
If you’ve tried this Barbecue Corn on the Cob or any other recipe on my blog please let me know how it went in the comments below. I love hearing from you. Finally, consider leaving a 🌟 star rating while you’re here. Thanks!
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn on the cob (husks and silk removed)
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 2 Tbsp Parmesan Grated Cheese
- 1 tsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Heat barbecue to medium-high heat.
- Rinse corn under cold water; gently shake off excess water. Wrap ears individually in foil.
- Grill 15 to 20 min. or until corn is tender, turning occasionally. Meanwhile, mix remaining ingredients until blended.
- Spread corn with flavoured butter just before serving.
Yes I’ve made grilled corn and know I’m craving some. Thanks 🙂
I just love grilled corn. I usually spread butter on them and than wrap them. I must give your way a try. Sounds yummy,
I have never grilled corn on the cob – I have always boiled it and I like it that way so never have wanted to try it another way. Sounds familiar… Hm, after reading this it sounds like I should break away from tradition and give grilling a try!
YUM! I love grilled corn on the cob. Sweet like summer!!!
When I first grilled it, I was surprised at how good it was too. Now I do it every time I use the grill!
Oh! I love corn on the cob on the BBQ! Nothing says Summer like BBQ, corn on the cob and strawberries for dessert!
I love grilled corn on the cob! We don’t even husk it…just throw it on the grill! Yum!
Yes I’ve tried grilled corn on the cob. I like it with lime and paprika. The only problem that seems to be is that, there usually isn’t much room on the grill for it!
Oh that is a great idea! I cook mine first and it keeps warm in the foil until dinner. 😉
I love corn on the cob , one more reason to be happy its summer !
YAY!!!
That sounds so good, I have always just steamed corn.
See? We need to try something new once in a while! Start with this! 🙂
I so love grilled corn on the cob. I love grilling it in the husk.
Need to try that next!
I love corn on the cob! That recipe sounds good!
Kraft has some great ones on the site, love so many of them!
I love grilled corn on the cob! We usually cook it right in the husk.
I need to try that next, I hear it’s just as easy.
Such an easy and delish recipe!
Yes!
We LOVE grilled corn on the cob! I’ll have to try your way next time we grill!
You need to, you’ll fall in love!!