Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer gatherings. This recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy sweet corn, making it perfect for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners. The foil packets not only keep the corn juicy but also allow for easy cleanup, making this a go-to side dish for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter and seasonings enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side with grilled meats or as part of a fresh summer salad.
• Perfectly Cooked Every Time: The foil packets ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Great for Outdoor Cooking: Ideal for grilling while you enjoy time outdoors with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Aluminium foil
• Small fork
• Knife (for shucking corn)
• Bowl (for mixing butter)

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the necessary heat for that delicious smoky flavor while cooking the corn evenly.
• Aluminium foil: Keeps the moisture in while preventing direct contact with flames, ensuring tender corn.
• Small fork: Perfect for mashing and mixing ingredients smoothly without much effort.

Ingredients

For the Butter Mixture

• 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder (optional)
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)

For the Corn

• 6 ears corn (shucked)

How to Make Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to 400°F to ensure proper cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

1. In a bowl, mash butter, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth. A small fork works well for this task.

Step 3: Assemble Corn in Foil Packets

1. Rub each ear of corn with the butter mixture.
2. Place two ears per large piece of aluminium foil (or one per piece if preferred).
3. If using regular aluminium foil, double up to protect against direct heat.
4. Fold the foil over the corn, crimping edges to seal tightly.

Step 4: Grill Your Corn

1. Place the foil packets on the grill.
2. Close the lid and grill for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking

1. Carefully remove packets from the grill.
2. Open each packet carefully, flip each ear of corn, then reseal packets.
3. Return them to the grill and cook for an additional 10-20 minutes until cooked through and slightly browned.

Step 6: Serve Your Delicious Corn

1. Remove foil packets from grill once done.
2. Carefully open packets; serve corn hot with additional butter and salt if desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil! This versatile side dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is a delicious and versatile side dish. It pairs well with a variety of flavors and can be served in numerous ways to enhance your summer meals.

Classic Butter and Salt

• Spread additional softened butter over the hot corn and sprinkle with sea salt for a simple yet satisfying taste.

Spicy Lime Drizzle

• Combine lime juice, chili powder, and melted butter for a zesty topping that adds a kick to your grilled corn.

Parmesan Cheese Sprinkle

• Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the corn while it’s still hot. This adds a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn.

Herb Infusion

• Mix chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the butter before spreading it on the corn for an aromatic twist.

BBQ Sauce Glaze

• Brush your favorite BBQ sauce over the grilled corn just before serving for a smoky, tangy flavor that enhances every bite.

Chili Lime Crema

• Drizzle a mixture of sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder over your corn for a creamy, spicy finish that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

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How to Perfect Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

To ensure your Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

• Choose Fresh Corn: Select ears of corn that are firm and have bright green husks. Freshness greatly impacts flavor.

• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill reaches 400°F before adding the foil packets. This ensures even cooking.

• Double Layer Foil: Use two layers of aluminum foil if you’re using regular foil. This protects the corn from direct heat and prevents burning.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Grill for at least 20 minutes total but check for doneness by looking for slightly browned kernels.

• Be Careful Opening Packets: Steam builds up inside foil packets. Open them carefully to avoid burns.

• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different seasonings or marinades to customize your grilled corn experience.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil pairs beautifully with many dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken complements the sweet flavors of corn perfectly. Marinate it beforehand for extra taste.

2. Potato Salad: A classic side dish that adds creaminess and balances out the grilled flavors with its cool texture.

3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a nice contrast to tender grilled corn, making it an excellent addition to any meal.

4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add heartiness to your meal, creating a wonderful combination with grilled corn.

5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with grilled flavors.

6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed with vegetables can provide a nutritious complement to your grilled feast.

7. Watermelon Feta Salad: The sweetness of watermelon combined with salty feta makes for an ideal summer side dish alongside grilled corn.

8. Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries bring an extra crunch and pair nicely with both grilled dishes and summer vibes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

• Overcooking the corn: Cooking for too long can lead to mushy kernels. Stick to the recommended 20-30 minutes total grilling time.
• Not sealing the foil properly: If the packets aren’t sealed tightly, steam escapes, and the corn won’t cook evenly. Make sure to crimp the edges securely.
• Using fresh corn without shucking: Leaving the husks on traps heat and moisture unevenly. Always shuck your corn before grilling.
• Skipping seasoning: Without flavors like butter and spices, your corn may taste bland. Don’t skip the seasoning step; it enhances the overall taste.
• Grilling at too high a temperature: A grill that’s too hot can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for a steady 400°F.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

• Wrap each ear of corn tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Reheating Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place corn (still wrapped) directly on the rack; heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place corn on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel; heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter; place corn in the skillet and turn occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil?
Seasoning with butter, salt, and optional spices like garlic powder provides great flavor. Experiment with different herbs or cheese for variety!

How long should I grill Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil?
A total of about 20-30 minutes is ideal. Start with 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 10-20 minutes until tender.

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw it first before preparing it for grilling. The cooking time may vary slightly if using frozen corn.

What are some topping ideas for Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil?
Consider toppings like Parmesan cheese, lime juice, or chili powder after grilling for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various seasonings or toppings to suit your taste. This dish is perfect alongside any summer meal or barbecue gathering—give it a try!