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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Corn on the Cob: Easy Grilled Recipe

bacon-wrapped corn on the cob - featured image

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy bacon wrapped around sweet, juicy corn on the cob, grilled to perfection. With a simple method that includes par-cooking the bacon, you’ll get shatteringly crisp bacon and beautifully charred corn every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears of corn, husks removed
  • 8 slices of thin-cut bacon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
  • Lime wedges (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  2. Shuck the corn and remove all silk. Pat each ear completely dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Par-cook the bacon: Place bacon slices on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Microwave for 30-45 seconds, just until the bacon starts to render some fat but is still pliable.
  5. Brush each ear of corn evenly with the seasoned butter mixture.
  6. Take two slices of par-cooked bacon per ear of corn. Start at one end and wrap the bacon around the corn at a slight angle, overlapping slightly. Tuck the ends under to secure. Optionally, use toothpicks to secure the ends.
  7. Place the bacon-wrapped corn directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes.
  8. Using tongs, carefully rotate the corn a quarter turn. Repeat until all sides are evenly cooked, about 16-20 minutes total. The bacon should be deep golden brown and crispy, and the corn should have visible char marks.
  9. Check for doneness: Bacon should be crispy enough to crackle when tapped; corn kernels should be tender when pierced with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 165°F if using a thermometer.
  10. Remove from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, with any remaining seasoned butter brushed on top, and garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip the par-cooking step—it ensures crispy bacon. Use thin-cut bacon for best results. Watch for flare-ups and keep a spray bottle of water handy. Rotate the corn, don’t flip, to keep the bacon secure. Let the corn rest for 2-3 minutes after grilling for maximum crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped corn on the cob, grilled corn, crispy bacon corn, summer barbecue side dish, easy grilled recipe