how to cook corn on the cob on pellet grill

How to Cook Corn on the Cob on Pellet Grill?

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Table of Contents

  1. Why Use a Pellet Grill for Corn on the Cob?
  2. Choosing the Right Corn
  3. Prepping the Corn for Grilling
  4. How to Grill Corn on the Cob on a Pellet Grill
    • Grilling Corn with Husks On
    • Grilling Corn Without Husks
    • Wrapping Corn in Foil
  5. Seasoning Options for Corn on the Cob
  6. Tips for Perfectly Grilled Corn on the Cob
  7. Serving Suggestions
  8. FAQs
  9. Conclusion

How to Cook Corn on the Cob on Pellet Grill: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Cooking corn on the cob on a pellet grill is one of the tastiest ways to enjoy this summer staple. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the sweetness of fresh corn creates a delicious side dish that’s perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or even as a standalone snack. Using a pellet grill not only infuses the corn with rich, smoky flavors, but also provides a consistent and even cooking process, making it easier to get perfectly grilled corn every time.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of grilling corn on a pellet grill, along with tips for seasoning, wrapping, and serving. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you master the art of grilling corn on the cob to perfection.

Why Use a Pellet Grill for Corn on the Cob?

Pellet grills offer a unique advantage when it comes to grilling corn on the cob. Unlike traditional charcoal or gas grills, a pellet grill uses wood pellets as fuel, which adds a smoky flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. This grill type also allows for more precise temperature control, ensuring your corn is cooked evenly without drying out or burning.

Some reasons to use a pellet grill for corn include:

  • Consistent heat: Pellet grills maintain a steady temperature throughout the cooking process, which is essential for evenly cooking corn.
  • Wood pellet flavor: The flavor from different wood pellets—such as hickory, apple, or mesquite—can complement the corn’s natural sweetness.
  • Set-it-and-forget-it convenience: With a pellet grill, you can set your desired temperature, place the corn on the grill, and let the grill do most of the work without constant supervision.

how to cook corn on the cob on pellet grill

Choosing the Right Corn

To ensure the best flavor, always start with the freshest corn you can find. When selecting corn on the cob for grilling, here’s what to look for:

  1. Fresh Green Husks: The husks should be bright green and tightly wrapped around the cob. Avoid any corn with brown, dried-out husks.
  2. Plump Kernels: Feel the kernels through the husk. The cob should feel plump and full, indicating the corn is fresh and juicy.
  3. Golden Silk: Look for golden-colored silk emerging from the top of the corn. If the silk is dark or dry, the corn may be old.
  4. Even Size: Try to select corn that is similar in size for even cooking.

Prepping the Corn for Grilling

Before placing the corn on the pellet grill, you need to decide how you want to cook it: with or without the husk, or wrapped in foil. Prepping the corn will vary depending on which method you choose.

1. Corn with Husks On

  • Soak the Corn: If grilling with the husk on, soak the corn in cold water for 15–30 minutes before grilling. This will prevent the husks from burning and help steam the corn as it grills.
  • Trim the Silk: Trim the excess silk sticking out of the top of the husk. You can also peel back the husk slightly to remove some silk, but be sure to wrap it back up before grilling.

2. Corn Without Husks

  • Husk Removal: To grill the corn without husks, peel back the husks and remove them entirely, along with the silk.
  • Brush with Oil or Butter: Brush the corn with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter to prevent it from drying out on the grill.

3. Corn Wrapped in Foil

  • Remove Husks and Silk: Like the huskless method, remove the husks and silk completely.
  • Season and Wrap: Season the corn with your desired spices and butter or oil, then wrap the corn tightly in aluminum foil to lock in moisture and flavors.

How to Grill Corn on the Cob on a Pellet Grill

Grilling corn on the cob on a pellet grill is a straightforward process, but the method you choose will affect the final texture and flavor of the corn. Below, we’ll break down the steps for each grilling method.

Grilling Corn with Husks On

  1. Preheat the Pellet Grill: Set your pellet grill to 350°F and allow it to preheat for 10–15 minutes.
  2. Place the Corn on the Grill: Once the grill is ready, place the soaked corn (with husks on) directly on the grates.
  3. Cook Time: Grill the corn for 25–30 minutes, turning every 5–10 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. The husks will darken and char slightly, which is normal.
  4. Check Doneness: To check if the corn is done, peel back a small section of the husk. The kernels should be tender and juicy.

Grilling Corn Without Husks

  1. Preheat the Grill: Set the pellet grill to 350°F and let it preheat.
  2. Place Corn on Grill: Brush the corn with olive oil or butter, then place it directly on the grill grates.
  3. Cook Time: Grill for 10–15 minutes, turning the corn every 2–3 minutes for even charring and to prevent burning.
  4. Remove and Serve: Once the corn is evenly grilled with a light char, remove it from the grill and serve.

Wrapping Corn in Foil

  1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat the pellet grill to 350°F.
  2. Wrap the Corn: After seasoning the corn and adding butter or oil, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.
  3. Grill: Place the foil-wrapped corn on the grill and cook for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally.
  4. Check Doneness: Unwrap the foil to check if the corn is tender. If needed, grill for a few more minutes.

how to cook corn on the cob on pellet grill

Seasoning Options for Corn on the Cob

One of the best parts of grilling corn on the cob is the variety of seasoning options available. Here are some popular ways to flavor your grilled corn:

  1. Classic Butter and Salt: Brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt for a simple yet delicious option.
  2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): After grilling, slather the corn with mayonnaise or sour cream, sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
  3. Garlic Parmesan: Mix melted butter with garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley for a savory, cheesy flavor.
  4. Spicy Chili Lime: Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, paprika, and a squeeze of fresh lime for a zesty kick.
  5. Herb Butter: Combine melted butter with fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or parsley, and brush it onto the corn for a fresh and aromatic flavor.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Corn on the Cob

To achieve perfectly grilled corn on the cob, follow these expert tips:

  1. Soak Corn for Juicier Kernels: If grilling with the husk on, always soak the corn for at least 15 minutes to keep it moist and prevent the husks from burning.
  2. Rotate Frequently: Turning the corn every few minutes ensures even cooking and prevents the kernels from burning on one side.
  3. Don’t Overcook: Corn that is overcooked can become tough and chewy. Stick to the recommended grill times and check for tenderness.
  4. Add Butter While Hot: For maximum flavor, brush the corn with butter or oil immediately after removing it from the grill, while it’s still hot.
  5. Experiment with Pellets: Different wood pellets, like hickory, mesquite, or applewood, can enhance the flavor of your grilled corn. Experiment to find your favorite combination.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled corn on the cob pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for serving:

  • BBQ Chicken or Ribs: Grilled corn is a classic side dish for any BBQ, especially when paired with smoky, saucy meats.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Serve with other grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a light and healthy meal.
  • Salads: Add grilled corn kernels to a fresh salad for added texture and sweetness.
  • Tacos: Cut the kernels off the cob and use them as a topping for tacos or burrito bowls.
  • Seafood: Grilled corn complements seafood dishes like grilled shrimp, lobster, or fish tacos.

FAQs

1. How long should I grill corn on the cob on a pellet grill?
Grill corn on the cob for 25–30 minutes with husks on, or 10–15 minutes without husks. If wrapped in foil, cook for 20–25 minutes.

2. Should I soak corn on the cob before grilling?
Yes, soaking the corn in water for 15–30 minutes if grilling with husks on helps prevent the husks from burning and keeps the corn moist.

3. What temperature should I set my pellet grill for corn on the cob?
Set your pellet grill to 350°F for even cooking and to avoid burning the corn.

Conclusion “How to Cook Corn on the Cob on Pellet Grill?”

Grilling corn on the cob on a pellet grill is an easy way to elevate the flavor of this summer favorite. The natural sweetness of the corn, combined with the smoky flavor from the wood pellets, makes it an irresistible side dish or snack. Whether you grill the corn with or without husks, or wrap it in foil, the pellet grill adds a distinct and delicious flavor that can’t be matched by other cooking methods.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll have perfectly grilled corn on the cob that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Experiment with different seasonings and pellets to create your own signature grilled corn, and enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish all summer long!

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