How to Cook Corn on the Grill With Husk

Cooking corn on the grill with the husk on is one of the easiest ways to get juicy, smoky corn.

The husk protects the kernels from burning.

It also traps steam so the corn cooks soft and sweet.

This guide shows you how to grill corn in the husk step by step.

It is simple, fast, and great for any cook, even beginners.

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What You Need

You only need fresh corn and a grill.

Fresh corn works best because the husk is still green and full of moisture.

This moisture helps steam the corn.

Before you start, clean your grill grates.

When grates are clean, the husk does not pick up old grease or stuck food.

A wooden scraper works well for this because it does not leave metal bristles behind.

The Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper is one option many grill owners use because it shapes to your grate over time and keeps the surface clean in a safe way.

Buy Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper - Amazon USA

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If you want more ideas for easy grilling, you can also check out simple recipes here:

Easy Gas Grill Recipes Anyone Can Try for Tasty Meals: 

https://behindthegrill.com/blog/easy-gas-grill-recipes-anyone-can-try-for-tasty-meals

Soak or Not Soak?

Many people wonder if they should soak the corn first.

The truth is both ways work.

If you soak:

The husk gets wet and creates more steam.

This gives you very soft corn.

Soaking also lowers the chance of the husk catching fire.

Just place the corn in a bowl of water for 10–15 minutes.

If you skip soaking:

The husk dries out and gets a bit charred.

This adds more smoky flavor.

You just need to turn the corn a bit more often.

Both ways taste great, so choose the one you prefer.

Heat the Grill

Set your grill to medium heat.

This is around 350°F to 375°F.

Medium heat cooks the corn all the way without burning the outside.

Let the grill warm up for a few minutes so the heat is even.

Prep the Corn

Pull off the dry outer leaves of the husk.

Leave the soft green ones in place.

These protect the kernels.

Do not peel the corn all the way.

You want the husk to stay on so it can steam.

Trim the silk sticking out from the top.

This keeps it from burning too much.

You can also cut the long stem at the bottom if you want a cleaner look.

Place the Corn on the Grill

Put the corn right on the grate.

Close the lid.

Let the corn cook for about 15–20 minutes.

Turn it every 5 minutes so all sides cook evenly.

The husk will darken as it cooks.

This is normal.

As the corn cooks, you may hear a little popping.

That is the steam inside the husk.

It means the corn is cooking well.

If you’re planning a full barbecue meal and need help choosing side dishes, here is a helpful guide:

What to Serve with Barbeque Chicken: 

https://behindthegrill.com/blog/what-to-serve-with-barbeque-chicken

Check for Doneness

After 15 minutes, peel back a small section of the husk with tongs.

Be careful because steam will escape.

If the kernels look bright and tender, the corn is done.

If they look pale or firm, close the husk and grill for a few more minutes.

Remove the Husk and Silk

When the corn is cooked, take it off the grill using tongs.

Let it cool for a minute or two.

Then peel off the husk and silk.

It should come off easily.

If you soaked the corn, it may be even easier because the leaves stay soft.

Add Butter and Seasoning

You can keep it simple with just butter and salt, or you can make it more fun.

Try chili powder, garlic butter, lime juice, or parmesan cheese.

The heat from the corn melts everything into the kernels.

Why Grill Corn With the Husk On?

This method keeps the corn from drying out.

It also allows the kernels to steam in their own natural moisture.

The flavor becomes sweeter and deeper.

You also avoid the risk of burning the kernels before the inside cooks.

Grilling with the husk on is also easier for new grillers.

The husk gives you a bit of a safety zone so you do not have to watch the corn as closely as you would with husk-free corn.

Common Questions

Can I add butter before grilling?

You can, but you need to peel back the husk, add butter, then pull it back up and tie it.

Most people add butter after grilling because it is faster.

Can I grill frozen corn with husk?

Frozen corn does not have a fresh husk.

It is better to thaw it and grill without husk instead.

Does this work on gas and charcoal grills?

Yes.

Charcoal gives more smoky flavor.

Gas gives you more control.

Both grill the corn well.

Tips for Better Results

Try to pick corn with bright green husks and moist silk.

This means it is fresh.

Fresh corn steams better and has better flavor.

If the husk is very dry or brown, it may not grill as well.

When turning the corn, use tongs instead of forks.

Forks can punch the husk and let steam escape.

If you want more smoke, let a few of the outer leaves burn a little.

Do not worry; this does not hurt the corn inside.

Final Thoughts

Grilling corn with the husk on is one of the best ways to cook corn outside.

It is simple, uses natural steam, and gives you juicy kernels every time.

Whether you soak the corn or grill it dry, you will still get great results.

If you enjoy grilling often, keeping your grates clean makes the whole process easier.

And if you’d like to explore tools that help with that, feel free to click the image below to check out our products from Easy Function.