If you are looking to elevate a simple summer favorite, the Grilled Corn in Foil with Butter, Dill, and Lemon Recipe is exactly what your next cookout needs. This dish takes fresh ears of corn and infuses them with rich, creamy butter, a bright splash of lemon, and the fresh, herby notes of dill, all wrapped up neatly in foil and grilled to perfection. It’s delightfully easy but packed with vibrant flavors that will win over anyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Grilled Corn in Foil with Butter, Dill, and Lemon Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role — butter adds luscious creaminess, dill brings a fresh, garden aroma, and lemon delivers a citrusy brightness that keeps the flavors lively and balanced.
- 6 ears of corn: Fresh, sweet corn is the star and foundational to this recipe.
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened at room temp): Butter ensures the corn is moist and rich.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Salt enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Pinch of pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth.
- 1 Tbsp fresh dill (finely chopped): Dill gives a bright, fresh herbal note that’s unexpected and delightful.
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: Lemon juice adds a zesty tang that lifts the richness.
How to Make Grilled Corn in Foil with Butter, Dill, and Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Butter Mixture
Start by mixing the softened unsalted butter with salt, pepper, finely chopped fresh dill, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl until everything is combined smoothly. This herby, citrus butter will be the luscious coating that infuses every bite of the corn with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
Husk the ears of corn, removing all silk strands carefully. You want the corn clean and ready to absorb that flavorful butter. For ease, pat the ears dry with a towel to remove any lingering moisture.
Step 3: Assemble the Foil Wraps
Lay out six large pieces of aluminum foil, one for each ear of corn. Spread a generous amount of the butter mixture evenly over the corn. Then wrap each ear tightly in foil, sealing all edges to keep the steam and juices locked inside during grilling.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Place the foil-wrapped corn directly on a medium-hot grill. Cook for about 18 minutes, turning the packs occasionally every 5-6 minutes. The corn should become tender and slightly smoky, while the butter mixture melts, infusing every kernel with herbal and citrus goodness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully unwrap each ear to avoid the steam, then serve immediately, letting the buttery, dill and lemon flavor take center stage in every bite of your grilled corn.
How to Serve Grilled Corn in Foil with Butter, Dill, and Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and texture, sprinkle your grilled corn with some crumbled feta or cotija cheese and a little extra fresh dill right before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika can add a subtle warmth that plays beautifully with the lemony butter.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs amazingly with grilled meats like chicken or steak, fresh summer salads, or even a creamy potato salad. Because it’s richly buttery but still bright from the dill and lemon, it balances heavier mains perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the corn still wrapped in foil on a rustic wooden board for a casual picnic vibe, or unwrap it and arrange the ears on a bright ceramic platter with lemon wedges for a stylish outdoor dinner presentation. You can also skewer pieces off the cob for fun, shareable finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover corn tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best eaten within 2 days to enjoy that fresh herb and lemon flavor without loss of quality.
Freezing
While you can freeze grilled corn, it’s better fresh due to the delicate butter and lemon flavors. However, if necessary, freeze wrapped ears in freezer bags for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, keep the corn wrapped in foil and warm it on the grill or in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes to gently wake up the buttery herbs without drying out the corn.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill if I don’t have fresh?
Fresh dill is best because it offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but if you need a substitute, dried dill will work. Use about half the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Is it okay to grill corn without foil?
Grilling corn without foil is possible and gives a nice char, but the foil helps steam the corn in its own juices along with the butter and herbs. This recipe relies on foil for that tender, infused effect.
Can I make the butter mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! The butter mixture can be mixed a day in advance and refrigerated. Bring it up to room temperature before spreading on the corn for easier coating.
What type of grill is best for this recipe?
Both charcoal and gas grills work wonderfully. Charcoal will add a lovely smoky flavor, but either grill type will produce fantastic results as long as the heat is medium and steady.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding fresh thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of chili flakes if you want a little heat. This recipe is flexible and welcomes creative touches.
Final Thoughts
I truly can’t recommend this Grilled Corn in Foil with Butter, Dill, and Lemon Recipe enough. It’s a simple twist on classic grilled corn that elevates every bite with fresh, lively flavors and creamy goodness. Give it a go at your next meal, and I promise it will become one of your summer staples as it did for me!
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Grilled Corn in Foil with Butter, Dill, and Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy grilled corn in foil, perfect for summer cookouts. This recipe features sweet corn ears slathered in a buttery mixture infused with fresh dill and lemon juice, then wrapped in foil and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 ears of corn
- 4 Tbsp (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Pinch of pepper (or to taste)
- 1 Tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with salt, pepper, finely chopped fresh dill, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful herb butter.
- Prepare the corn and grill: Remove the husks and silk from the ears of corn. Spread the herb butter mixture evenly over each ear of corn. Wrap each corn ear individually in aluminum foil, making sure they are sealed well. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the foil-wrapped corn on the grill and cook for about 18 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, carefully remove from the grill, unwrap, and serve hot.
Notes
- Soften the butter ahead of time for easier mixing and spreading.
- You can adjust the amount of dill and lemon juice based on your preference.
- Wrapping corn in foil helps to keep the juices in and creates tender, flavorful kernels.
- Use medium-high heat on the grill to avoid burning the butter in the foil.
- If you don’t have a grill, this recipe can also be adapted for oven roasting at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.
