How Long To Cook Corn On Grill

ByLily

Direct grilling gives corn a smoky char that pairs well with butter and salt. If you want to know how long to cook corn on grill, the short answer is 10 to 15 minutes over medium-high heat. That range works for husked corn. Corn still in the husk takes a bit longer.

This guide breaks down the timing for every method. You will also get simple steps, a few tips, and answers to common questions.

How Long To Cook Corn On Grill

Timing depends on how you prep the corn. Here is the quick breakdown:

  • Husked corn, direct heat: 10 to 15 minutes
  • Husked corn, foil wrapped: 15 to 20 minutes
  • Corn in husk, direct heat: 15 to 20 minutes
  • Corn in husk, soaked first: 20 to 25 minutes
  • Pre-cooked or blanched corn: 5 to 8 minutes

Turn the corn every 2 to 3 minutes. This keeps it from burning on one side. You want light char spots, not blacken kernels.

Husked Corn On The Grill

Husked corn is the fastest option. The kernels touch the grate directly, so they char quick.

  1. Heat your grill to medium-high, about 400°F to 450°F.
  2. Brush the corn with oil so it does not stick.
  3. Place the cobs right on the grate.
  4. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes total.
  5. Turn every 2 to 3 minutes until you see char marks.

If your grill runs hot, move the corn to a cooler spot. A little char adds flavor. A lot of char tastes burnt.

Corn In The Husk On The Grill

The husk protects the kernels. This method steams the corn while it cooks. It takes longer but the corn stays juicy.

  1. Pull the husk down but do not remove it. Take out the silk.
  2. Pull the husk back up over the kernels.
  3. Soak the corn in water for 10 minutes. This step is optional but helps.
  4. Grill over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes.
  5. Turn every 4 to 5 minutes.

The husk will char and may smoke. That is normal. The corn inside will be tender and sweet.

Foil Wrapped Corn On The Grill

Foil traps steam and keeps the corn from drying out. It is a good choice for beginners.

  • Wrap each cob in a sheet of foil.
  • Add butter, salt, and pepper before sealing.
  • Grill over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Turn every 5 minutes.

Open the foil carefully. Steam will rush out and it is very hot.

Tips For Perfect Grilled Corn

Pick The Right Corn

Look for husks that are green and tight. The silk should be brown, not black. Press a kernel with your fingernail. If it squirts milky liquid, the corn is fresh.

Control The Heat

Medium-high heat is the sweet spot. Too hot and the kernels burn before they cook through. Too low and the corn dries out before it chars.

Season After Grilling

Salt can pull water out of the kernels. Add salt after the corn comes off the grill. Butter melts best on hot corn, so spread it right away.

Watch For Doneness

Kernels should look bright and slightly soft. Pierce one with a knife. If it slides in easy, the corn is done. If it feels tough, give it a few more minutes.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Walking away from the grill. Corn can burn in under a minute.
  • Using high heat the whole time. Medium-high is enough.
  • Not turning the cobs. Even char needs rotation.
  • Over-soaking husked corn. It steams instead of chars.
  • Adding salt too early. It makes the corn tough.

How To Serve Grilled Corn

Classic toppings work best. Try butter, salt, and black pepper. For a twist, use lime juice and chili powder. Some people like mayo and crumbled cheese. Others brush on a mix of honey and butter.

Grilled corn goes with almost anything. It fits burgers, ribs, chicken, and fish. You can also cut the kernels off the cob and add them to salads or salsa.

Storing And Reheating Leftovers

Let the corn cool first. Then wrap it in foil or put it in a sealed container. It keeps in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

To reheat, wrap the corn in foil and warm it on the grill for 5 minutes. You can also use a skillet or the oven at 350°F. The microwave works but the texture gets a bit soft.

Final Thoughts

So how long do you cook corn on the grill? Plan on 10 to 15 minutes for husked corn and 15 to 20 minutes for corn in the husk. Turn it often and keep the heat at medium-high. That is all it takes for sweet, smoky corn every time.

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