How to Cook Corn on a Gas Grill: When summer rolls around, there's nothing like the enticing aroma of freshly grilled corn on the cob. It's a quintessential BBQ side dish that's simple to prepare yet rich in flavor. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through every step of how to cook corn on a gas grill to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavorful result every time.

Getting Ready for Grilling

Grilling corn on a gas grill starts with gathering the right tools and ingredients. This step is crucial because having everything in place makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Preparation involves selecting fresh corn, marinating it for enhanced flavor, and prepping your gas grill for an even cook.

Choosing the Right Corn

The first and most significant step is choosing the right corn. Freshness is key; look for corn with bright green husks, moist stems, and golden silk. Avoid any ears with brown husks or dry silk as they are likely old. Fresh corn will yield a sweeter, juicier bite after being grilled.

Essential Ingredients and Tools

Having these ingredients and tools at hand before you start will make your grilling experience seamless and enjoyable.

Preparation Steps

Prepping the Corn

Before you start grilling, it's essential to prep the corn properly. Begin by peeling back the husks of the corn without detaching them entirely. Remove the silk threads from the corn and then fold the husks back into place. Soak the ears of corn in cold water for about 15 minutes. This helps prevent the husks from burning on the grill and adds a bit of moisture to the corn.

Marinating the Corn

Marinating adds extra flavor to your grilled corn. Mix melted butter with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like paprika or chili powder. Brush this mixture generously over the corn, ensuring to get between the kernels. This step can be done while the corn is soaking to save time.

Grilling the Corn

Setting Up Your Gas Grill

Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat (around 350-400 degrees F). Clean the grill grates thoroughly using a grill brush. A clean grill ensures that your corn doesn't stick and cooks evenly. Once preheated, lightly oil the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Grilling to Perfection

Place the soaked and marinated corn directly onto the grill grates. Close the lid and let the corn cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. The husks will char, but the kernels inside will steam beautifully, becoming tender and full of smoky flavor.

Serving and Enjoying Your Grilled Corn

Final Touches

Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and allow it to cool slightly. Peel back the husks and brush with more melted butter if desired. Sprinkle additional salt and pepper to taste. For a gourmet touch, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Perfect Pairings

Grilled corn on the cob is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside [grilled steak](https://www.grilling4all.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-cook-rib-eye-steak-on-a-griddle-pan), [BBQ ribs](https://www.grilling4all.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-cook-baby-back-ribs-on-a-griddle), or [grilled zucchini](https://www.grilling4all.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-cook-zucchini-on-a-griddle) for a complete summer BBQ feast. You can also chop leftover grilled corn into salads or salsas for an added touch of smokiness.

Cleaning Up

After your BBQ, it's crucial to clean your tools and grill to maintain them in good condition. First, scrape off any remnants of food from the grill with a grill brush. Then wash your grill thoroughly with a suitable cookware cleaner to remove any grease and grime. Don't forget to clean your knife and cutting board using a cutting board oil to keep them in top shape for future grilling adventures.

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In conclusion, learning how to cook corn on a gas grill is a valuable skill for any BBQ enthusiast. The sweet, smoky flavors of perfectly grilled corn make it a highlight of any summer cookout. By following these detailed steps and tips, you'll be able to prepare and serve corn that leaves your guests raving about your grilling prowess. So fire up your gas grill and get ready to enjoy the best grilled corn of the season!