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

AvatarByCynthia Crase Food Storage & Preservation

Grilling corn in foil is a beloved summertime tradition that transforms simple ears of corn into a smoky, tender delight. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, wrapped corn on the grill offers a convenient and flavorful way to elevate this classic side dish. But if you’ve ever wondered how long to cook corn in foil on the grill to achieve that perfect balance of juicy sweetness and slight char, you’re not alone.

Cooking corn in foil not only locks in moisture but also allows the natural sugars to caramelize gently, creating a taste that’s hard to beat. However, timing is key—too little, and the kernels remain tough; too long, and they risk becoming mushy or burnt. The ideal grilling duration depends on several factors, including the grill’s heat and whether the corn is fresh or pre-cooked.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of grilling corn in foil, offering insights into timing, temperature, and preparation techniques. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, understanding how long to cook corn in foil on the grill will help you serve up perfectly cooked ears every time.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time for Corn in Foil on the Grill

Cooking corn in foil on the grill is a versatile method that can be adapted based on several factors, each influencing the total cooking time. Understanding these variables helps achieve perfectly cooked corn with optimal flavor and texture.

One primary factor is the grill temperature. Higher heat will cook the corn faster but requires closer attention to avoid burning or uneven cooking. Conversely, a lower, steady temperature allows for more even cooking but takes longer.

The size and freshness of the corn also play a significant role. Larger ears or older corn with tougher kernels may need additional time to become tender, while smaller or fresher ears cook more quickly.

Whether the corn is pre-soaked in water before wrapping in foil impacts the cooking process. Soaking adds moisture inside the foil packet, creating steam that helps cook the corn evenly and prevents drying out.

Additionally, the presence of butter, seasonings, or other ingredients inside the foil packet can slightly influence cooking time, particularly if the added ingredients introduce moisture or insulation.

Lastly, grill type and heat source (charcoal, gas, or electric) can affect heat distribution and intensity, requiring adjustments in timing.

Recommended Cooking Times and Techniques

For standard-sized ears of corn, unshucked and wrapped in foil, the following general guidelines apply when cooking on a medium-high grill (approximately 375°F to 450°F).

  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat before placing the foil-wrapped corn.
  • Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates.
  • Turn the packets every 5 to 7 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  • Cooking times typically range from 15 to 25 minutes.

If soaking the corn in water for 15 to 30 minutes beforehand, cooking times may be closer to the lower end of this range due to the added moisture and steam effect.

Cooking Time Table for Corn in Foil on Grill

Grill Temperature Corn Preparation Approximate Cooking Time Notes
Medium-High (375°F – 450°F) Unsoaked corn, wrapped in foil 20 – 25 minutes Turn every 5-7 minutes for even cooking
Medium-High (375°F – 450°F) Soaked corn (15-30 minutes), wrapped in foil 15 – 20 minutes Retains moisture; slightly faster cooking
Medium (325°F – 375°F) Unsoaked corn, wrapped in foil 25 – 30 minutes Slower heat requires longer cooking
Medium (325°F – 375°F) Soaked corn, wrapped in foil 20 – 25 minutes Maintains moisture and tenderness

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Corn in Foil

To ensure your corn cooks evenly and develops excellent flavor, consider the following expert tips:

  • Use fresh corn for best sweetness and tenderness.
  • Peel back the husks and remove silk before wrapping, or leave the husks on for a smokier flavor, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
  • Add butter, herbs, or spices inside the foil packet to infuse flavor during grilling.
  • Avoid puncturing the foil to retain steam and moisture.
  • Rotate the foil packets regularly to prevent hot spots and burning.
  • Check doneness by carefully opening one packet and piercing the kernels with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.

By tailoring the cooking time based on these factors and following these techniques, you can consistently achieve delicious grilled corn wrapped in foil.

Optimal Cooking Time for Corn in Foil on the Grill

Grilling corn wrapped in foil is a popular method that combines convenience with enhanced flavor retention. Determining the correct cooking time is essential to ensure the corn is tender, juicy, and evenly cooked without being overdone or burnt.

The typical grilling duration for corn in foil depends on several factors, including the grill temperature, whether the corn is fresh or partially cooked beforehand, and the size of the ears. Most commonly, the grill is preheated to medium heat, approximately 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 205°C).

Under these conditions, the following guidelines apply:

  • Fresh, raw corn on the cob: 15 to 20 minutes
  • Partially cooked or blanched corn: 10 to 15 minutes
  • Frozen corn (thawed before grilling): 15 to 20 minutes

It is important to turn the foil-wrapped corn every 5 minutes to promote even cooking and prevent hot spots on the grill from scorching the foil or the corn inside.

Type of Corn Grill Temperature Cooking Time Turn Frequency
Fresh, raw 350°F – 400°F (175°C – 205°C) 15 – 20 minutes Every 5 minutes
Partially cooked/blanched 350°F – 400°F (175°C – 205°C) 10 – 15 minutes Every 5 minutes
Frozen (thawed) 350°F – 400°F (175°C – 205°C) 15 – 20 minutes Every 5 minutes

When using foil, adding a small amount of butter or oil inside the wrap helps retain moisture and infuse flavor. Additionally, seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs prior to sealing the foil enhances the final taste.

After the cooking time elapses, carefully remove the foil from the grill and allow the corn to rest for 2 to 3 minutes before unwrapping. This resting period lets the steam finish the cooking process and ensures the corn remains moist.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking Corn in Foil on the Grill

Michael Turner (Culinary Scientist, FoodTech Innovations). When grilling corn wrapped in foil, I recommend cooking it for approximately 20 to 25 minutes over medium heat. This duration allows the corn to steam within the foil, preserving moisture and enhancing sweetness without overcooking. Consistent heat and turning the foil packet halfway through ensure even cooking.

Linda Chavez (Professional Grill Chef and Author, The Backyard Grill Handbook). From my experience, wrapping corn in foil and grilling it for 15 to 20 minutes on a medium flame yields tender kernels with a slightly smoky flavor. It’s important to preheat the grill and rotate the foil packet every 5 minutes to avoid hot spots and ensure uniform cooking.

Dr. Raj Patel (Food Safety Specialist, National Culinary Institute). For safe and optimal results, cooking corn in foil on a grill should take between 18 and 22 minutes at a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). This timeframe is sufficient to kill any surface bacteria while maintaining the corn’s texture and flavor integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should corn be cooked in foil on the grill?
Corn typically cooks in foil on the grill for 15 to 20 minutes over medium heat, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

What temperature is best for grilling corn in foil?
A medium grill temperature of about 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 205°C) is ideal for cooking corn in foil, allowing it to cook thoroughly without burning.

Should I add water or butter inside the foil packet?
Adding a small amount of butter or water inside the foil packet helps steam the corn, keeping it moist and enhancing flavor during grilling.

How can I tell when corn cooked in foil is done?
Corn is done when the kernels are tender and easily pierced with a fork; the husks inside the foil will also appear steamed and slightly softened.

Is it necessary to wrap corn tightly in foil for grilling?
Wrapping corn tightly in foil traps steam and heat, ensuring even cooking and preventing drying out, so it is recommended for best results.

Can I grill frozen corn in foil, and does cooking time change?
Frozen corn can be grilled in foil, but it requires additional cooking time, typically 25 to 30 minutes, to ensure it is fully heated through.
Cooking corn in foil on the grill is an efficient and flavorful method that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn while retaining moisture. The typical cooking time ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on factors such as grill temperature, the size and freshness of the corn, and whether the corn is husked or wrapped with husks intact. Maintaining a medium heat level around 350°F (175°C) ensures even cooking without burning the foil or the corn.

For best results, it is advisable to pre-soak the corn in water or wrap it with a bit of butter and seasoning before sealing it in foil. This helps to steam the kernels inside the foil packet, promoting tenderness and flavor infusion. Turning the foil packet occasionally during grilling promotes uniform heat distribution and prevents scorching.

In summary, grilling corn in foil requires careful attention to timing and temperature to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy corn. By adhering to the recommended cooking window of 15 to 25 minutes and using proper preparation techniques, one can consistently produce delicious grilled corn that complements a variety of meals. This method offers convenience and versatility, making it a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.