Grilled corn on the cob is one of the simplest and most delightful summer treats. It can complement picnics and barbecues beautifully or, of course, be enjoyed as a tasty snack. If you are searching for something to pair with your cookout, or planning a backyard BBQ, these grilled corn on the cob recipes are exactly what you need. In addition to a satisfying crunch, they will add rich flavor and smokiness to your summer meals.

Because of the sweetness and the caramelized texture developed when corn kernels are grilled with direct heat, they get a sweet-smoky flavor. Beyond just the basic grilled corn, there are numerous ways to enhance the flavor with herbs, spices, cheeses, and sauces. Below are some mouthwatering grilled corn on the cob recipes that can be a hit at any gathering.

The Basics of Grilling Corn on the Cob

Learning about specific grilled corn on the cob recipes is of no use if you do not know the basics. Prepping corn for the grill is simple. However, it makes a significant impact on the texture and flavor of corn.

Ingredients

• Fresh corn on the cob (husked or unhusked, depending on preference)
• Butter or olive oil (for brushing)
• Salt and pepper (for seasoning)

Grilling Methods

1. Direct Grilling (with Husk): Soak the corn in water for 15 to 20 minutes and then place it on the grill over medium-high heat. Grill for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender. The husks will shield the corn from direct heat, making it less sharp in flavor.
2. Direct Grilling (without Husk): For the best smoky and charred flavor, husk the corn and grill it directly on the grates. Spread butter or olive oil on it and position it over medium-high heat for 10 – 15 minutes. Rotate it frequently for even charring. The resulting flavor profile is noticeably deeper and more pronounced due to this method.

Mastering these grilling techniques prepares you to attempt the following succulent grilled corn on the cob recipes:

1. Classic Grilled Corn with Herb Butter

Grilled corn with butter is such a great meal, but it gets even better when you add fresh herbs. If you want to have great grilled corn on the cob recipes, then you are in luck because this will get you started.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of corn (husked)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Follow

1. Set the temperature of the grill to medium-high and wait for it to preheat.
2. Take a small bowl and mix the softened butter, parsley, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix them until well combined.
3. Brush each ear of corn with the herb butter, and save some for after grilling.
4. Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, tossing it often until the corn is slightly charred.
5. Remove from the grill and brush with the remaining herb butter. Now you can serve it.

2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Grilled corn on the cob Elote is one of the most famous Mexican street snacks. It goes well with grilling meat or a delicious salad.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of corn (husked)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Steps to Follow

1. Place your corn on the grates of the preheated grill. Toss every now and then except when it becomes charred all over. It will take about 10-12 minutes.
2. Mix the sour cream and mayonnaise in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
3. Slather the mayo-sour cream mixture on each ear of corn once grilled.
4. Sprinkle generously with crumbled cotija cheese and chili powder.
5. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and garnish with cilantro.

3. Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn

To make grilled corn on the cob recipes even more delectable, try this unique take – Parmesan garlic corn. The smoky corn combines perfectly with the salty parmesan, resulting in an explosion of flavors.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of corn (husked)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Follow

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Brush each ear of corn with melted butter and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
4. After removing the corn from the grill, immediately sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

4. Spicy Cajun Grilled Corn

In the case that you appreciate spicy and bold flavor, this Cajun-inspired take on grilled corn on the cob recipes will be different and exciting. A simple Cajun spice mix gives the corn a fiery kick.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of corn (husked)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Steps to Follow

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Brush the seasoned oil mixture onto each ear of corn.
4. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning regularly until the kernels are evenly charred.
5. Serve with a squeeze of lime for added freshness.

5. Grilled Corn with Feta and Mint

For a fresh spin on grilled corn on the cob recipes, try to pair up corn with tangy feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh mint. Such a light dish is excellent for summer picnics or outdoor parties.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of corn (husked)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Follow

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush each ear of corn with olive oil and grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning regularly until charred.
3. Remove from the grill and immediately sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
4. Top with fresh mint, lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

6. Grilled Corn with Honey-Lime Butter

This sweet and tangy twist on grilled corn on the cob recipes combines honey and lime with buttery corn, making it an irresistible option for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 6 ears of corn (husked)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 lime, juiced and zested
• Salt to taste

Steps to Follow

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, honey, lime juice, and zest until well combined.
3. Brush the corn with the honey-lime butter mixture and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently for even char marks.
4. Once grilled, brush with additional honey-lime butter before serving.

Whether you are going for classic flavors or experimenting with bold new combinations, these grilled corn on the cob recipes will transform your corn into a mouthwatering summer dish. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!