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.
Barbecue corn on the cob is so easy and tastes exceptional!
I love grilling corn on the BBQ and will definitely be giving this recipe a try next time we buy corn.
Love grilled corn, anytime I’ve ever cooked it we always just left it inside the husk. I’m going to give this a go.
We grill it with just about every meal, have never tried the butter spread you used so next weekend, thanks!!
I love grilled corn on the cob, it’s easy and tasty
I’ve always been a boil it kind of person but you’ve inspired me to try grilling… we shall see
I will admit to being stubborn too! The grilled corn on the cob will be perfect for Canada Day!
I have never grilled corn on the cob before… just boiling for me. We bbq quite regularly, and one of my boys lives corn – perhaps I will try it next time we have some. I wouldn’t have thought to add other things to the package too…. perhaps I shall test this. Thanks!
This is one of my absolute favourite things to eat. Thanks for the reminder. I’ll have to make some soon.
I love grilled corn. I just throw it on the BBQ, no tin foil. This recipie sounds delicious, will have to try this weeknd!