Traeger Corn on the Cob

Few things scream summer like corn on the cob, and when it’s grilled on a Traeger, it reaches a whole new level of smoky, buttery perfection. This Traeger Corn on the Cob recipe brings out the natural sweetness of fresh corn while adding layers of flavor with melted butter, garlic, herbs, and cotija cheese. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or as a standout side dish for any occasion.

Cooking corn on a pellet grill like a Traeger not only adds that signature wood-fired taste, but also gives the kernels a perfect balance of tenderness and slight char. The butter mixture, brushed on before and after grilling, enhances every bite with a rich and savory kick, while the finishing touches of cotija cheese and fresh cilantro add brightness and texture.

This dish is versatile enough to accompany grilled meats, tacos, or even veggie-based meals. Plus, it’s easy enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve at your next cookout. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a weeknight dinner outdoors, this Traeger Corn on the Cob is a crowd-pleasing favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Wood-Fired Flavor – Grilling on a Traeger infuses the corn with unbeatable smoky depth.
2. Quick and Easy – Minimal prep and short cooking time make it ideal for weeknights or last-minute BBQs.
3. Flavor-Packed Toppings – Butter, garlic, cilantro, and cotija cheese elevate simple corn into something special.
4. Perfect Side Dish – Pairs well with a wide variety of mains, from burgers to tacos to grilled chicken.
5. Customizable – You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

• Corn (shucked)
• Butter (melted)
• Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Cotija cheese

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.
• Mexican Street Corn Style: Spread mayo on the corn after grilling, then add cotija, lime juice, and Tajín seasoning.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and omit or replace the cotija with a vegan cheese alternative.
• Lime Zest: Add lime zest and juice to the butter for a bright citrusy flavor.
• Parmesan Swap: Substitute cotija with finely grated parmesan for a salty, nutty twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Traeger Grill

Preheat your Traeger or pellet grill to 375°F with the lid closed for about 10–15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Shuck the corn by peeling back and removing the husks and silks.

Step 3: Make the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Brush the Corn

Using a brush or spoon, coat the corn evenly with the seasoned butter mixture.

Step 5: Grill the Corn

Place the corn directly on the Traeger grates. Grill for 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are slightly charred and tender.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Once grilled, remove the corn from the grill and immediately sprinkle with cotija cheese. Garnish with more cilantro if desired.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot and enjoy immediately, either on the cob or sliced into rounds.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Soak the corn in water for 10 minutes before grilling to prevent it from drying out.
• Use a silicone brush for easy and even application of the butter mixture.
• Rotate the corn every 5–7 minutes for even cooking and charring.
• Don’t overcook—the kernels should be tender, not mushy.
• Add cheese while the corn is still hot so it sticks better.

How to Serve

• Serve as a side with grilled meats, tacos, or barbecue.
• Add a drizzle of lime crema or hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Slice the kernels off the cob and toss into salads or salsas.
• Pair with a cold drink and enjoy outdoors for the ultimate summer vibe.
• Make it part of a corn bar with different toppings like lime wedges, crumbled bacon, or spice blends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover grilled corn in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Cut the kernels off the cob and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Great for soups, salads, or stir-fries later.

Reheating

Reheat on the grill for 5–7 minutes, in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or microwave for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Fresh corn is best, but thawed frozen corn on the cob can work in a pinch—just pat it dry before grilling.

2. Do I have to shuck the corn before grilling?

Yes, for this recipe the corn is grilled directly without husks to get that charred flavor.

3. What’s the best wood pellet flavor for grilling corn?

Hickory or applewood pellets add a great balance of smoke and sweetness.

4. Can I grill this on a gas grill instead of a Traeger?

Absolutely, though you’ll miss out on the wood-smoked flavor, it will still be delicious.

5. Is cotija cheese necessary?

No, you can use parmesan or feta as substitutes, or skip it entirely for a dairy-free version.

6. How do I keep the corn juicy?

Avoid overcooking and baste with butter during grilling to maintain moisture.

7. Can I add lime juice?

Yes! Lime juice adds brightness and goes great with the other toppings.

8. How long should I grill the corn?

About 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred.

9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the butter mixture and shuck the corn in advance, but grill it fresh for the best taste.

10. What goes well with Traeger corn on the cob?

It’s excellent with grilled steak, chicken, pulled pork, burgers, or even veggie kebabs.

Conclusion

Traeger Corn on the Cob is an easy, flavorful, and unforgettable side dish that captures everything we love about grilling season. With smoky kernels, rich melted butter, and salty cotija cheese, each bite is bursting with flavor and freshness. It’s simple enough for a casual family dinner, yet impressive enough to shine at your next backyard cookout. Once you try it, you’ll never want to make corn any other way. Fire up your Traeger and give this recipe a go—you won’t regret it.

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