Grilling corn in foil is one of the easiest and most flavorful ways to enjoy this summer favorite. Wrapping corn on the cob in aluminum foil locks in moisture, steams the kernels to tender perfection, and makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re a grilling pro or a beginner, this method delivers juicy, buttery corn with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how you grill corn in foil step-by-step, plus some tips and tasty variations to elevate your grilled corn game!
Why Grill Corn in Foil?
Grilling corn in foil offers several benefits:
– Moisture retention: The foil traps steam and corn juices, keeping kernels plump and tender without drying out.
– Mess-free cooking: No loose husks or silk to clean off the grill, and minimal cleanup afterward.
– Even cooking: The foil packet steams the corn while allowing it to get a slight smoky flavor from the grill.
– Flavor infusion: Butter, herbs, and spices added inside the foil soak right into the corn as it cooks.
– Convenience: You can prep the foil packets ahead of time and grill them alongside your main dishes.
What You Need
– Fresh ears of corn, husked and cleaned of silk
– Aluminum foil (heavy-duty works best)
– Butter or olive oil
– Salt and pepper
– Optional seasonings: garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, herbs (thyme, dill, chives), honey, lemon zest
Step-by-Step: How to Grill Corn in Foil
1. Preheat Your Grill
Set your grill to medium heat, around 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C). This temperature range cooks the corn evenly without burning the foil or drying out the kernels.
2. Prepare the Corn
– Remove the husks and all silks from the corn.
– Rinse and pat dry.
– Place each ear on a double layer of aluminum foil.
3. Add Butter and Seasonings
– Drizzle melted butter or olive oil over the corn.
– Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like.
– For extra flavor, add minced garlic, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of honey.
– You can also mash butter with garlic powder and salt beforehand for a garlic butter spread.
4. Wrap the Corn in Foil
– Fold the foil around the corn, sealing the edges tightly but not too tight-leave a little room for steam.
– Some recommend poking a few small holes in the foil to allow excess steam to escape, preventing sogginess.
5. Grill the Corn
– Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates.
– Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes or so to ensure even cooking.
– If you want a bit of char, you can carefully open the foil halfway through and turn the corn, then reseal it.
6. Rest and Serve
– Remove the foil packets from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the corn to steam inside the foil and finish cooking.
– Carefully open the foil (watch out for hot steam).
– Serve with additional butter, salt, pepper, or your favorite toppings like chives, grated cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Corn in Foil
– Don’t overwrap: Wrapping too tightly can steam the corn too much and make it mushy.
– Use heavy-duty foil: It’s less likely to tear and holds heat better.
– Add herbs for extra flavor: Fresh thyme, dill, or rosemary tucked inside the foil add a wonderful aroma.
– Try flavored butters: Mix softened butter with lemon zest, garlic, or chili flakes before spreading on the corn.
– Check doneness: Poke the kernels with a fork after 15 minutes; they should be tender and juicy.
– Make ahead: You can prepare foil packets hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to grill.
Variations to Try
– Lemon Dill Butter Corn: Spread lemon-dill butter inside the foil for a fresh, zesty twist.
– Garlic Herb Corn: Mix softened butter with garlic powder and fresh herbs before wrapping.
– Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle honey and sprinkle chili powder or smoked paprika for a sweet-heat combo.
– Cheesy Corn: After grilling, sprinkle with cotija or parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lime.
Why This Method Works So Well
Grilling corn in foil combines steaming and grilling, which keeps the kernels moist while infusing them with smoky, grilled flavor. The foil acts as a mini oven, trapping heat and moisture, so you don’t have to soak the corn beforehand. Plus, it’s a low-fuss way to cook corn alongside your other grilled favorites without extra mess or hassle.
Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of grilled corn in foil at your next barbecue or family dinner!
Grilling corn in foil is quick, easy, and yields tender, flavorful ears every time. Just prep, wrap, grill, and enjoy!