Print

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Corn on the Cob

bacon-wrapped grilled corn on the cob - featured image

A simple and delicious summer BBQ side dish featuring fresh corn wrapped in crispy thick-cut bacon, grilled to perfection with a flavorful butter mixture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon (center-cut recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Light sprinkle of salt

Instructions

  1. Remove husks and silk from 4 medium ears of corn. Pat dry with paper towels to help the bacon stick better.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, freshly ground black pepper, and a light sprinkle of salt. Mix well until smooth.
  3. Using a basting brush, spread a thin layer of the butter mixture evenly over each ear of corn.
  4. Starting at one end, wrap 2 slices of thick-cut bacon around each ear of corn, slightly overlapping as you go. Secure loose ends with toothpicks if needed.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C). Clean grates for best results.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped corn on the grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes total, turning every 4-5 minutes with tongs until bacon is crispy and corn has grill marks.
  7. Check doneness: bacon should be crispy and golden, corn tender when pierced with a fork. Move to cooler part of grill if bacon crisps too fast.
  8. Remove corn from grill and let rest 3-5 minutes on foil to lock in juices. Optionally brush with extra butter or sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

Use thick-cut bacon for best texture and to prevent burning. Pat corn dry before wrapping to help bacon stick. Turn corn often to avoid flare-ups. Pre-cook bacon slightly to reduce grilling time and flare-ups if desired. Rest corn after grilling to lock in juices. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil. Can bake in oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes if no grill is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped corn, grilled corn on the cob, summer BBQ side, crispy bacon corn, easy grilled corn recipe