Grilled Corn On The Cob Without Husks

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Have you ever struggled with the mess of shucking corn or wrestling with foil while trying to prepare a simple, yet delicious side dish for your summer barbecue?

Making grilled corn on the cob without husks might just be the perfect solution you’ve been looking for!

This recipe allows you to place the corn directly on the grill, turning it until each side is perfectly heated—taking no more than 20 minutes.

It’s a gluten-free, easy option that complements a variety of main dishes like burgers, hot dogs, and steaks, enhancing your summer eating experience with minimal fuss.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a large backyard bash, this method ensures your corn is cooked to perfection, ready for everyone to dig in and enjoy!

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Why Grill Corn On The Cob Without Husks?

Grilling corn on the cob is one of the easiest and most foolproof methods to prepare this beloved summer staple.

With next to no prep and being hard to mess up, this method allows you to simply remove the husks, buy fresh corn without husks, and pop it on the grill.

Unlike cooking corn with husks or using aluminum foil, grilling directly on the grates gives the corn a lightly charred flavor without the fuss of an extra step.

This easy recipe doesn’t just save time; it enhances each bite with that irresistible, smoky goodness.

Plus, it’s a fantastic gluten-free option that complements nearly any dish, making it a versatile choice for any grilled dinner.

What Ingredients Are Required?

The only ingredient you need for this straightforward dish is fresh sweet corn on the cob.

You can choose between yellow, white, or bi-color corn, each offering a slightly different sweetness and texture, ensuring your grilled corn is not only easy to make but also deliciously satisfying.

Whether you’re tossing it alongside a steak, burger, or just enjoying it with a sprinkle of salt, this dish promises to be a highlight of your dining table.

How To Grill Corn On The Cob Without Husks?

Grilling corn on the cob without husks may sound daunting to some, but it’s actually a breeze and brings out a fabulous smokiness that’s hard to beat.

Here’s how I do it, and trust me, once you try it, you might never go back to the old ways!

First, preheat your grill to 400 degrees F. While it’s heating, remove the husks and silks—those stringy bits that sometimes cling to the cob.

Snap off the stem if it’s still attached, give the cobs a quick rinse under water, and dry them with a towel.

Next, place your corn directly on the hot grill. Let them cook for 4 minutes, then turn a quarter way.

Continue this process two more times until all sides of the corn have kissed the grill grates and the corn kernels begin to blacken.

The real charm of this method is how it intensifies the corn’s natural flavors, making them pop with each bite.

Now, for a personal touch, once off the grill, I like to serve them brushed with melted butter, sprinkled with smoked paprika, and a generous helping of parmesan cheese and chopped cilantro.

It’s simple yet utterly delicious! I remember one of my friends, who always struggled with dry, overcooked corn, tried this method at a BBQ party.

She was thrilled at how juicy and flavorful the corn turned out—now, it’s her go-to recipe for summer cookouts!

Topping Ideas

When you eat corn on the cob that’s grilled to perfection, even plain, it tastes delicious.

But why not top it off with more delicious things? Here’s a pro tip from my summer BBQs: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parmesan cheese.

For a creamier touch, try cotija cheese or queso fresco. Love butter? Herb butter or garlic butter are heavenly. For the health-conscious, ghee or coconut oil are superb alternatives.

Don’t forget a splash of lime juice, a dash of salt and pepper, or spices like chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to elevate the flavors.

Recipe Tips For Grilling Corn On The Cob Without Husks

Use a pair of tongs or an oven mitt to rotate the corn on the grill safely. It’s tempting to just grab it with your hands, but trust me, that’s a surefire way to risk burning yourself. I learned this the hard way during one hectic family barbecue!
It doesn’t make a difference which type of corn you use for this recipe. Whether it’s yellow, white, or bi-color, all work just fine. I’ve tried them all over various summer get-togethers, and each type brings its unique sweetness to the table.
You can eat your grilled corn on its own as a side, or enjoy it in another dish. One of my go-to favorites is adding it to a grilled shrimp and avocado corn salad. The smoky sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with the freshness of the shrimp and avocado, creating a dish that always gets compliments at dinner parties.

How To Grill Corn On The Cob Without A Grill?

1. In The Oven

If you’re missing the traditional grill but still crave that grilled corn experience, your oven is your best friend!

There are two main suggestions for grilling corn in the oven. For those who prefer their corn with husks, the process is all about retaining moisture.

Simply pull back the husks, remove the silks, brush the corn with oil or (vegan) butter, and season to taste.

Then, replace the husks and place the corn directly on the oven rack.

This cooking method is fantastic because it uses the husks to trap steam and help soften the corn kernels without the need for foil, which some avoid due to concerns about heavy metal contamination.

Alternatively, for the husk off method, shuck the corn completely, slather it in oil or (vegan) butter, season it well, and roast it on a baking tray.

This approach needs less time than leaving the husk on, but there’s a risk of the corn drying out.

However, you can counter this by adding extra oils, sauces, or dips to introduce more moisture when served.

This method is particularly handy for those quick family dinners where you want to keep things simple yet delicious.

2. In The Air Fryer

For a recent way to cook corn that’s both efficient and delicious, using an air fryer might just be your new favorite method.

Start by brushing shucked corn with your oil of choice and seasoning it to your liking. Then, simply pop it into the air fryer.

This cooking method is notably quicker and less fiddly compared to traditional methods, and while appliances vary, you’ll generally want to keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook.

From my research, cooking temperatures typically range from 350F/170C to 400F/205C, and cooking time can be anywhere from four to fifteen minutes.

If you want to use less oil, yet still enjoy that lush corn flavour, this method could be just what you’re after.

If you decide to try it, kindly share with me what time/temperature worked best for you!

3. In The Slow Cooker

Who knew a slow cooker could be your secret weapon for grilling corn on the cob?

By skipping the traditional grill, you won’t char or caramelize the corn, but you’ll be amazed at how it retains its flavour and juiciness—it’s so good!

Simply shuck your corn on the cob, rub it with some oil and your favorite seasoning, then pop it in the slow cooker. Let it cook until it’s tender.

The best part? No liquids or other ingredients are required. It’s a fuss-free corn cooking method that makes the most out of your appliance. How cool is that?

4. On The Gas Burner Flame

For the more adventurous cook, grilling corn directly above the flame of a gas burner is a thrilling choice.

This smoky, somewhat risqué affair, involves holding the ear with long heatproof tongs directly above the flame.

You’ll want to keep the heat medium to medium high for the best results. Make sure to turn the corn regularly until it’s cooked through and nicely charred.

This cooking method takes about 5 minutes and is not for the faint of heart, but it’s mega delicious!

5. On The Griddle Pan

If you don’t have access to a traditional grill or BBQ, don’t worry; griddle pans were invented for just such a scenario!

Utilizing a griddle pan is arguably the best way to grill corn on the cob without an actual grill.

Here’s how I do it: First, heat the griddle pan until it’s nice and hot. Then, brush the corn with oil and season it with salt and pepper.

Cook it over a medium/high heat, turning it frequently until it’s nicely charred. This method is straightforward, delicious, and involves minimum fuss—honestly, I love it!

It captures all the traditional flavors of grilled corn, all from the convenience of your kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

When serving grilled corn on the cob without husks, the possibilities for topping combinations are nearly endless, ensuring each bite is as delightful as the last.

Start with a simple brush of olive oil or vegan butter, and a sprinkle of salt. For a zestier kick, add lime juice and chilli pepper.

If you’re feeling a bit more gourmet, garlic butter mixed with fresh herbs or a unique miso lime butter can elevate the flavors beautifully.

For those who enjoy a fusion of tastes, Mexican style toppings like a dollop of vegan or regular sour cream, blended with vegan mayo or regular mayo, and sprinkled with garlic powder, paprika, tajin, and chilli powder make for a scrumptious treat.

Don’t forget to add a burst of freshness with cilantro or coriander, plus a zest of lime juice and lime zest.

For a heartier meal, slice the grilled kernels off the cob and toss them into a refreshing salad or mix with grains such as quinoa, buckwheat, couscous, or wholewheat pasta for added nutritional value.

This not only uses up any leftovers in a creative way but also brings a wholesome dimension to your summer meals.

FAQs About Grilled Corn On The Cob Without Husks

1. Does Corn Need To Be Boiled Before Grilling?

A common question I get is whether you need to boil corn before grilling. The answer is no. Skipping the boiling saves time and keeps the flavors intense and corn kernels perfectly juicy.

2. Can You Grill Corn In The Husk?

Yes, you can absolutely grill corn in the husk. Just remember to soak the corn husks so they don’t burn on the grill. This technique steams the corn inside its own natural wrapping, enhancing its sweetness.

3. Can You Use Frozen Corn?

No, you shouldn’t grill frozen corn on the cob. Always defrost it first, as frozen corn can end up soggy, which is never pleasant at a backyard feast.

4. How Do You Tell If Corn On The Cob Is Done On The Grill?

You can tell grilled corn on the cob is done when the kernels have plumped up a bit and are starting to blacken just slightly. That’s when you know you’ve hit the sweet spot of grilling!

Grilled Corn On The Cob Without Husks Recipe

Equipment

Grill
Towel
Tongs

Ingredients

4 ears of corn

Optional Toppings

Melted butter (or use coconut oil as a dairy-free option)
Smoked paprika
Freshly chopped cilantro

Instructions

Heat your grill to medium, approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If your corn still has husks and silk, peel them off and discard them along with the stem at the end. Wash the corn under running water and pat it dry with a towel.
When the grill is ready, use tongs to place the corn directly on the grill grate. Close the grill lid and let the corn cook for 4 minutes.
Lift the lid, turn each cob a quarter rotation using the tongs, then close the lid again. Repeat this step every 4 minutes, turning the corn until you’ve cooked all sides and the kernels begin to char slightly.
Take the corn off the grill and serve it hot. You can enjoy it plain or add your favorite toppings.