Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil (w/ Compound Butter)

When the summer sun is high in the sky and fresh corn is at its peak, there’s no better way to enjoy this sweet summer treat than grilled corn on the cob in foil. The combination of smoky, charred kernels with creamy, herb-flecked compound butter is simply irresistible. This easy foil packet method steams the corn to tender perfection while enhancing all its natural sweetness. Take your summer barbecues to the next level with this crowd-pleasing grilled corn recipe.

Sweet Summer Corn Made for Grilling

Corn on the cob is a classic summer staple for good reason. When fresh picked, sweet corn has an unbeatable sweetness and juicy crunch. The brief window for peak seasonal sweet corn means we have to make the most of it! Grilling is one of the quickest and tastiest ways to highlight sweet corn’s best attributes.

The dry heat caramelizes the natural sugars, while imparting delicious charred bits that accentuate the sweetness. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with luscious, herb-flecked compound butter. This dynamic combination is how grilled corn on the cob became a beloved summer tradition across America.

Picking the Best Corn for Grilling Greatness

To make heavenly grilled corn, it all starts with selecting the best, freshest corn you can find. Here are some tips:

• Look for plump, green husks with long strands of silk peeking out the ends. This signals the cob is completely filled out.
• Peel back the husk slightly to check for tightly packed, glossy yellow kernels. Avoid dried out, dull yellow corn.
• Opt for smaller sized ears, around 6-7 inches long, with slender cobs. They will be the sweetest and most tender.
• Seek out local corn from farmers markets for peak freshness and sweetness. Or choose organic corn cob varieties bred for flavor.
• For white corn lovers, look for Silver Queen corn or white supersweet hybrids.

Picking ripe, in-season corn guarantees you start with the best base for grilling. Now let’s get into the fun add-ons!

Whipping Up Flavored Compound Butters

What really elevates basic grilled corn to new heights is slathering on a flavored compound butter. By blending together softened butter with herbs, spices, aromatics and cheese, you can create a flavor bomb in every bite!

Here is a classic combo that pairs perfectly with sweet grilled corn:

• Softened, unsalted butter
• Finely chopped parsley
• Minced garlic
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Process the ingredients together thoroughly in a food processor or blender. For a quick short-cut, you can even finely mince the add-ins and mix together with a fork. Shape the compound butter into a log and chill until firm. Then just slice off a pat with each thick ear of grilled corn for flavorful bliss!

There are endless ways to customize compound butters to suit your tastes. Get creative with minced jalapeños, cilantro, chipotle powder, citrus zest, thyme, sage, honey, and more. The options are limitless for making grilled corn irresistible.

Grilling Gear Essentials

One of the best aspects of this foil packet grilled corn recipe is that you don’t need any fancy equipment or specialized grilling tools. As long as you have:

• A solid grill with grates to place the foil packets on
• Aluminum foil
• Tongs for moving the hot packets

You’re all set! A gas, charcoal, indoor electric grill or even stovetop ridged grill pan all work well.

Some extras that are helpful but not essential:

• Brush for spreading on compound butter
• Knife for slicing compound butter
• Oven mitts for handling hot foil packets

The simple materials let you focus on the fun part – grilling up sweet corn goodness!

Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

Follow these simple steps for grilled corn success:

• Prep the compound butter logs: Make the flavored compound butters ahead of time. Let chill completely so they are firm and sliceable.
• Prep the corn: Shuck the corn, removing all the silk strands. Rinse if needed. Leave water droplets for some steam.
• Make foil packets: Place each ear of corn on a large sheet of heavy duty foil. Top with a slice of the compound butter. Wrap securely so no steam can escape. Twist the ends for easy flipping.
• Preheat grill to medium heat: Aim for about 375-400 ̊F. The packet helps prevent burning at higher heats. You want consistently hot enough heat to sear the corn.
• Add foil packets: Place the packets directly on the grill grates. Make sure they lay flat with seam sides up. Close the grill to contain the heat.
• Grill for 15-20 minutes: Don’t peek or the steam escapes! Let the packets work their magic, charring the corn and steaming it tender.
• Flip and grill 5 more minutes: Use tongs to gently flip each packet. Grill a few more minutes to brown all sides.
• Remove from grill and rest 2 minutes: This lets the corn fully steam and makes them easier to handle. Carefully open the packets, the corn will be extremely hot.
• Serve with extra compound butter: Dig into sweet, smoky grilled corn slathered with more flavored butter. Enjoy this taste of summer.

Mastering the Art of Grilled Corn

Grilling corn in foil packets makes for easy, fuss-free grilling. But to take your corn on the cob to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Let corn sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.
• Coat the grates in oil or non-stick spray first for easy release after grilling.
• Grill over direct medium heat. The packets protect from higher temps.
• Resist the urge to flip too much. Just once halfway through is enough.
• Test doneness by pressing husks. It should feel tender when squeezed.
• If corn seems dry, add a splash of water into the packets while grilling.
• Resting after grilling lets steam evenly distribute for ultra tender kernels.

Creative Serving Suggestions for Grilled Corn

The beauty of grilled corn on the cob is that it complements just about any summer meal or cookout menu. From classic barbecues to picnics, potlucks and more, it’s a universally loved side.

For traditional pairings, serve it with:

• Hot dogs or hamburgers
• BBQ chicken or ribs
• Potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans
• Watermelon wedges or corn bread

But don’t be afraid to also think outside the box! Grilled corn brings sweetness and texture to:

• Kale or tomato salad
• Fish or shrimp tacos
• Over black bean quinoa bowls
• Charred pizzas or flatbreads
• Inside quesadillas or sandwiches

Slices of leftover grilled corn also work nicely in chilled grain bowls and salsa. Get creative mixing and matching with your favorite summer fare.

Next Level Flavored Compound Butters

The beauty of compound butter is how infinitely adaptable it is by mixing and matching ingredients. Kick the flavor up a notch by trying:

• Jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice – Spicy Mexican style
• Honey butter with cayenne – For heat and sweet
• Basil, oregano, sun-dried tomato – Savory Italian twist
• Cinnamon, allspice, and brown sugar – Warm spice blend
• Miso butter with sesame seeds – Savory umami flavors
• Lemon zest and chives – Bright herbal citrus

Swap in different fresh herbs like dill, rosemary, thyme or sage. Add spices like chili powder, curry powder, paprika or dry ranch seasoning. Substitute crumbled cheeses like feta, cotija, bleu cheese or fontina.

FAQs: Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

How long should you grill corn on the cob in aluminum foil?

Corn on the cob in foil takes about 15-20 minutes on medium heat, turning occasionally. The foil helps steam the corn and keep it tender.

Is it better to grill corn in husk or foil?

Grilling corn in the husk imparts the most flavor as the husk steams the corn in its own moisture. But foil is more convenient if you want to add butter or seasoning. Both work well.

What’s the best way to grill corn on the cob?

Soak husked corn in water for 15 minutes before grilling. Grill over med-high heat for 15-20 mins, turning regularly, until kernels are tender when pierced with a fork. Season with salt, pepper, and butter.

Does corn on the cob need to be soaked before grilling?

Soaking helps steam and cook the corn more evenly. But you can get away without soaking if you are grilling for a brief time. Soaking is recommended for maximum tenderness.

Conclusion: Grilled Corn on the Cob in Foil

Charred over an open flame then slathered in savory, herby butter, grilled corn encapsulates the tastes of summer we look forward to all year long. The irresistible flavor combo of smoky sweet corn with creamy, spice-flecked butter will have everyone going back for seconds. Using simple foil packets means flawlessly grilled corn with no fuss.

This easy technique works on any grill so you can enjoy backyard barbecue bliss anytime. Just be ready for pleading requests to make this crowd-pleasing grilled corn all summer long. Customize the flavored butter to match whatever you’re craving. Grill up a batch for your next warm weather get-together and watch it disappear fast.

From traditional barbecue sides to creative salad toppings, this recipe brings joy to any meal. As the summer sun shines down, keep savoring the limited days of peak sweet corn with this go-to grilling recipe. Just unwrap the perfectly steamed and charred ears, and let the sweet corn goodness transport you straight to summer.