Nothing says summer quite like the smoky, sweet flavor of grilled corn on the cob. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a cookout with friends, or a simple family dinner, corn on the cob is a must-have. It’s easy to make, affordable, and pairs beautifully with nearly any grilled protein or picnic-style side.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to grill corn on the cob using different techniques, plus offer 10 delicious grilled corn on the cob recipes to spice up your summer table. From classic buttery corn to cheesy Mexican street corn and even garlic herb butter options—there’s something here for everyone.
Why Grill Corn on the Cob?
Grilling corn brings out its natural sugars, giving you a beautifully caramelized exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Compared to boiling or steaming, grilling offers a depth of flavor that can’t be matched.
Key benefits of grilled corn on the cob:
- Sweet and smoky taste
- Beautiful grill marks and caramelization
- Great for outdoor cooking and barbecues
- Can be customized with endless toppings
How to Grill Corn on the Cob: 3 Easy Methods
Before jumping into the recipes, it’s helpful to know the three main methods for grilling corn on the cob:
1. Grilled Corn in the Husk
Pros: Natural steam keeps kernels moist
How to:
- Soak corn (husks on) in water for 15–30 minutes
- Place directly on the grill, turning every 5 minutes
- Grill for 15–20 minutes, then peel and serve
2. Grilled Corn without Husk (Direct Grill)
Pros: Charred, smoky flavor
How to:
- Peel off husks and remove silk
- Brush corn with oil or butter
- Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning often
3. Foil-Wrapped Grilled Corn
Pros: No mess, customizable with butter and seasonings
How to:
- Wrap each cob in aluminum foil with butter, garlic, or spices
- Grill for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally
10 Must-Try Grilled Corn on the Cob Recipes
These recipes are perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or just upgrading your everyday corn on the cob.
1. Classic Buttered Grilled Corn on the Cob
Simple and timeless.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Brush corn with melted butter
- Grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning often
- Sprinkle with salt and serve hot
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
A fan favorite loaded with creamy, cheesy flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of grilled corn
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
- Mix mayo and sour cream
- Brush mixture over warm corn
- Sprinkle with cheese, chili powder, and cilantro
- Serve with lime wedges
3. Parmesan Garlic Corn on the Cob
Rich and savory.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Melt butter with garlic
- Grill corn and brush with garlic butter
- Sprinkle with Parmesan and chopped parsley
4. Spicy Cajun Corn on the Cob
Bring the heat!
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Pinch of cayenne (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix oil and Cajun seasoning
- Rub onto corn and grill for 12 minutes
- Serve with lime wedges if desired
5. Honey Butter Grilled Corn
Sweet and buttery perfection.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears corn
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp honey
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Mix butter and honey
- Brush onto grilled corn
- Finish with a dash of salt
6. Lemon Herb Grilled Corn
Light and refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears corn
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp chopped thyme or rosemary
Instructions:
- Mix oil, lemon juice, and herbs
- Brush onto corn and grill
- Garnish with fresh lemon zest
7. Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Corn
A smoky, salty treat.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn
- 4 strips of bacon
- Toothpicks
Instructions:
- Wrap each cob in a slice of bacon and secure with toothpicks
- Grill over medium heat, turning frequently, until bacon is crispy (15–20 minutes)
8. Buffalo-Style Grilled Corn
Tangy with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears corn
- 3 tbsp buffalo sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- Blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix butter and buffalo sauce
- Brush on grilled corn
- Top with blue cheese crumbles
9. Asian-Inspired Soy Garlic Corn
A umami-packed twist.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears corn
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Sesame seeds
Instructions:
- Combine soy, oil, and garlic
- Brush on corn and grill
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds
10. Pesto Grilled Corn on the Cob
Bold basil flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears corn
- ¼ cup prepared pesto
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
Instructions:
- Grill corn
- Brush with pesto
- Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve
Tips for Perfect Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Soak husked corn in water if you’re grilling in the husk—this prevents burning.
- Rotate often for even charring.
- Use a basting brush for applying butter or sauce evenly.
- Don’t overcook—kernels should be tender, not mushy.
What to Serve with Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn is incredibly versatile. Serve it with:
- BBQ Ribs
- Grilled Chicken or Steak
- Veggie Burgers
- Potato Salad
- Coleslaw
- Watermelon slices for a refreshing finish
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for crowd-pleasing grilled corn on the cob recipes, these variations bring bold flavors to a summer classic. Whether you keep it simple with butter and salt or go all out with cheesy, spicy, or herbed toppings, grilled corn is guaranteed to be the star of your cookout.
So fire up that grill and try out a few of these recipes this season—you might just find a new favorite!