How to Grill Corn on the Cob Perfectly
To grill corn, cook it over medium-high heat, turning often, for 8 to 12 minutes. Leave the husks on for sweet, steamed corn, or shuck it for a charred, smoky flavor.
To grill corn on the cob, cook it over medium-high heat, turning it often, for 8 to 12 minutes. Leave the husks on for sweet, steamed corn with light char, or shuck it for a smokier, more charred flavor. Both ways are easy once you know the timing.
Pick the best corn
Look for bright green husks and moist, golden silk. The kernels should be plump and in tight rows. Skip ears with dry, brown husks or shriveled silk, since that means the corn is old and starchy.
Two ways to grill it
The right method depends on the flavor you want.
| Method | Prep | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Husk on | Soak 15 to 30 min | 15 to 20 min | Sweet, steamed, light char |
| Husk off | Shuck fully | 8 to 12 min | Smoky, charred kernels |
| In foil | Wrap with butter | about 15 min | Tender and even |
The grilling technique
Preheat to medium-high. Put the corn on and turn it every few minutes so it chars evenly instead of burning on one side. With the husk on, the outside chars while the inside steams. With the husk off, watch for golden brown kernels with a few dark spots. That is the sweet spot.
Season and serve
Season can take corn from good to great. Butter, salt, and pepper is the classic, but a shake of Dad Spice The Classic adds a bold, smoky kick. For something different, try lime and chili powder, parmesan and herbs, or garlic butter. Serve it as a side or a standalone snack.
Read next: Grilling Vegetables: A Complete Guide and How to Grill Avocado.
Frequently asked questions
Should I soak corn before grilling?
Only if you grill it in the husk. Soak it 15 to 30 minutes so the husk steams the corn instead of burning. Shucked corn does not need soaking.
How long do you grill corn on the cob?
Shucked corn takes 8 to 12 minutes over medium-high heat, turning often. In the husk it takes 15 to 20 minutes. You want char and bright, plump kernels.
Is it better to grill corn in the husk or not?
In the husk gives you sweeter, steamed corn with light char. Out of the husk gives you a smokier, more charred flavor. Both are great, so pick the taste you want.
How should I season grilled corn?
Butter, salt, and pepper is the classic. For more punch, use Dad Spice, or try lime and chili, parmesan and herbs, or garlic butter.
Make it taste better.
Grab a bottle of The Classic and season like you mean it.
