BBQ CORN ON THE COB

BBQ Corn on the Cob is a beloved summer side dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of fresh corn. It is enhanced by the smoky char of the grill and a variety of seasonings or toppings. Simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor. It’s a staple at cookouts, barbecues, and backyard gatherings across the United States.
The process typically involves grilling ears of corn directly on the barbecue—either with the husks on, which steams the kernels while protecting them from burning, or husks off, which allows the kernels to char and caramelize for a smoky flavor. Some cooks soak the husked corn in water beforehand to prevent burning. Others rub the ears with butter, oil, or spice blends before grilling.
Seasoning options are vast. A classic version involves brushing grilled corn with butter, salt, and pepper, but regional and modern twists might include garlic butter, Cajun spices, parmesan cheese, lime juice, or fresh herbs. One especially popular variation is Mexican-style elote. Grilled corn is slathered with mayonnaise or crema, rolled in cotija cheese, and dusted with chili powder and lime zest.
Historically, corn is one of the most ancient and significant crops in the Americas. It was cultivated by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Grilled or roasted corn was a common preparation long before modern BBQs existed. The practice of grilling corn as a festive side dish emerged more prominently in the 20th century as outdoor grilling culture grew in the U.S., especially post–World War II with the rise of suburban backyard barbecues.
Today, BBQ corn on the cob is cherished for its combination of sweet, smoky, and savory elements. It captures the essence of summer cooking: simple ingredients, fire-kissed flavor, and the pleasure of eating with your hands.
BBQ Corn on the Cob
Ingredients
Method
- Peel back the husks on the corn about 3/4 of the way down, but not off. Remove the silk and discard it.
- Soak in room temperature water for 30 minutes. Remove and pat the corn dry with a paper towel.
- Mix butter and seasonings thoroughly.
- Spread the seasoning and butter mixture over the corn and rewrap the corn with the husks. Secure the husks around the corn with string if necessary.
- Preheat the grill for direct heat at medium temperature, about 350°F.
- Grill the corn over the direct heat for about 20 to 30 minutes. Rotate the corn occasionally, allowing it to cook all around the cob. Remove when done. Bon Appetit.