How Long Should You Cook Corn in Foil on the Grill for Perfect Results?

AvatarByMary Davis Food Storage & Preservation

Grilling corn on the cob wrapped in foil is a beloved summertime tradition that brings out the natural sweetness of the kernels while infusing them with a subtle smoky flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious side dish, cooking corn in foil on the grill offers a convenient and mess-free way to achieve tender, juicy results. But one common question often arises: how long should you leave that foil-wrapped ear of corn on the grill to get it just right?

Understanding the ideal cooking time is key to ensuring your corn is perfectly cooked—neither underdone and crunchy nor overcooked and mushy. Factors like grill temperature, the size of the corn, and whether it’s fresh or frozen can all influence how long it needs to stay wrapped in foil over the heat. Mastering this timing will help you enjoy corn that bursts with flavor and texture every time.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of grilling corn in foil, including tips on preparation, timing, and temperature. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to confidently cook corn in foil on your grill to perfection.

Optimal Cooking Times for Corn in Foil on the Grill

When grilling corn in foil, the cooking time can vary depending on several factors including the heat of the grill, the size of the ears, and whether the corn is fresh or partially cooked beforehand. Typically, the goal is to cook the corn until the kernels are tender and infused with a subtle smoky flavor without burning the husk or foil.

For medium to high heat grills (around 400°F to 450°F), the general recommended cooking time ranges from 15 to 25 minutes. Wrapping corn in foil helps retain moisture and steam the kernels, promoting even cooking. Turning the foil packets occasionally ensures that heat distributes uniformly.

Several key points to consider:

  • Freshness of Corn: Fresher corn cooks faster due to higher moisture content.
  • Size of Ears: Larger ears may require more time to become fully tender.
  • Grill Temperature: Higher heat shortens cooking time but requires careful monitoring to avoid burning.
  • Foil Wrapping: Double wrapping can preserve moisture better but might increase cooking time slightly.
  • Additional Ingredients: Adding butter or seasonings inside the foil can affect heat conduction and moisture retention.

Recommended Cooking Times Based on Grill Heat and Corn Size

Below is a reference table summarizing approximate cooking times for corn in foil on various grill heat settings and ear sizes. These times assume the corn is fresh and husked before wrapping:

Grill Temperature Corn Size Cooking Time (Minutes) Notes
Medium (350°F – 375°F) Small (5-6 inches) 18 – 20 Turn every 7-8 minutes for even cooking
Medium (350°F – 375°F) Large (7-9 inches) 20 – 22 May require an extra 2 minutes if very thick
High (400°F – 450°F) Small (5-6 inches) 15 – 17 Monitor closely to prevent burning
High (400°F – 450°F) Large (7-9 inches) 17 – 20 Rotate every 5 minutes for uniform cooking
Low (300°F – 325°F) Small (5-6 inches) 22 – 25 Low and slow method for extra tenderness
Low (300°F – 325°F) Large (7-9 inches) 25 – 28 Check tenderness at 20 minutes

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Foil-Wrapped Corn

To maximize flavor and texture when grilling corn in foil, consider these expert tips:

  • Pre-soak the Corn: If leaving husks on, soak ears in water for 15-30 minutes to prevent burning. When using foil only, ensure the foil is tightly sealed to trap steam.
  • Add Moisture: Place a pat of butter, a splash of water, or a drizzle of olive oil inside the foil to enhance tenderness.
  • Turn Regularly: Flip the foil packets every 5-10 minutes to prevent hotspots and promote even cooking.
  • Use a Thermometer: If available, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the grill maintains the target temperature for consistent cooking.
  • Test for Doneness: Carefully open the foil after the minimum cooking time and pierce a kernel with a fork; it should be tender and juicy, not hard or dry.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let the corn rest in the foil for a few minutes off the grill to allow juices to redistribute evenly.

By tailoring cooking times based on your grill’s heat and the size of the corn, and following these tips, you will consistently achieve delicious, tender corn that’s infused with that signature grilled flavor.

Optimal Cooking Time for Corn in Foil on the Grill

Cooking corn in foil on a grill is a popular method that locks in moisture, enhances flavor, and simplifies cleanup. The total cooking time depends primarily on the grill temperature and the size of the ears. Here’s a detailed guide to achieving perfectly cooked corn:

Standard Cooking Duration:

  • At a medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F), cook corn wrapped in foil for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Turn the foil packet every 5 to 7 minutes to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
  • For smaller ears, reduce time slightly to about 12 to 15 minutes.

Influence of Grill Temperature:

  • Low heat (250°F to 300°F): Expect cooking times closer to 25 to 30 minutes to achieve tenderness.
  • Medium heat (350°F to 400°F): Ideal range, balancing speed and flavor, 15 to 20 minutes.
  • High heat (450°F+): Faster cooking, around 10 to 12 minutes, but requires attentive turning to prevent burning.
Grill Temperature Cooking Time (Minutes) Notes
250°F – 300°F (Low) 25 – 30 Slow cooking; tender and evenly cooked
350°F – 400°F (Medium) 15 – 20 Optimal balance of time and flavor
450°F+ (High) 10 – 12 Quick cooking; requires frequent turning

Additional Considerations:

  • Wrapping the corn tightly in foil traps steam, which helps the kernels cook evenly and retain moisture.
  • Adding butter, herbs, or spices inside the foil packet can enhance flavor without affecting cooking time significantly.
  • Check doneness by carefully unwrapping and piercing kernels with a fork; they should be tender but still slightly firm.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking Corn in Foil on the Grill

Maria Lopez (Culinary Scientist, FoodTech Innovations). Cooking corn in foil on a grill typically requires about 15 to 20 minutes over medium heat, around 350°F to 400°F. This duration ensures the kernels become tender and flavorful without drying out. Wrapping the corn tightly in foil helps retain moisture and steam the corn evenly.

James Carter (Grill Master and Author, The Outdoor Cooking Handbook). For optimal results, I recommend grilling corn in foil for 18 minutes, turning the packet halfway through. This method balances direct heat with steam, producing juicy, well-cooked corn. Using fresh corn and pre-soaking the husks or adding a bit of butter inside the foil can enhance the taste and texture.

Dr. Emily Chen (Food Safety Specialist, National Culinary Institute). When cooking corn in foil on a grill, maintaining a consistent temperature and cooking for 15 to 20 minutes is crucial to avoid undercooking or overcooking. Ensuring the foil packets are sealed properly prevents contamination and promotes even cooking, which is essential for both flavor and food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should corn be cooked in foil on the grill?
Corn wrapped in foil typically requires 15 to 20 minutes on a medium-high grill to cook thoroughly.

What grill temperature is best for cooking corn in foil?
A medium heat of around 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 205°C) is ideal for evenly cooking corn in foil without burning.

Should the corn be husked before wrapping it in foil?
You can cook corn with or without the husk; however, husking the corn before wrapping in foil allows for better seasoning absorption and even cooking.

Is it necessary to add butter or seasoning before grilling corn in foil?
Adding butter, salt, or other seasonings before wrapping enhances flavor and helps keep the corn moist during grilling.

How can I tell if the corn is fully cooked when grilled in foil?
The corn is done when the kernels are tender and easily pierced with a fork, and the husk or foil feels hot to the touch.

Can corn be cooked in foil on a charcoal grill as well as a gas grill?
Yes, foil-wrapped corn cooks effectively on both charcoal and gas grills, though cooking times may vary slightly depending on heat consistency.
Cooking corn in foil on the grill is an effective method that ensures even cooking and preserves moisture, resulting in tender and flavorful corn. Typically, corn wrapped in foil should be grilled over medium heat for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This timeframe allows the kernels to steam within the foil, softening the corn without drying it out or burning the husks.

It is important to turn the foil packets occasionally during grilling to promote uniform heat distribution. Additionally, the exact cooking time may vary depending on the grill temperature, the size and freshness of the corn, and whether any seasonings or butter have been added inside the foil. Monitoring the corn after the 15-minute mark can help achieve the desired level of tenderness.

In summary, grilling corn in foil requires a balance of heat and time, generally around 15 to 20 minutes, with periodic turning to ensure even cooking. This method is convenient, minimizes cleanup, and enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, making it a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts seeking a simple yet delicious side dish.

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.