Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob takes classic grilled corn to a whole new level. Sweet, juicy corn is wrapped in crispy bacon and brushed with a smoky barbecue glaze for an irresistible combination of flavors. Perfect for summer cookouts, backyard barbecues, tailgates, and family gatherings, this crowd-pleasing side dish is guaranteed to be one of the first things to disappear from the table.
Bacon Wrapped Corn
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Brush the corn lightly with olive oil.
- Season the corn with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Wrap two slices of bacon around each ear of corn, slightly overlapping the bacon as you go.
- Secure the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
- In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, honey, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Place the bacon-wrapped corn on the grill.
- Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, turning frequently until the bacon is crispy and the corn is tender.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the corn generously with the BBQ glaze.
- Continue grilling until the glaze becomes sticky and caramelized.
- Remove from the grill and allow to rest for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Thin-cut bacon tends to crisp more easily than thick-cut bacon.
- Rotate the corn frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Apply the glaze near the end of cooking because the sugar can burn if added too early.
- Fresh corn provides the sweetest flavor and best texture.
Variations
- Use maple bacon for extra sweetness.
- Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Try a honey chipotle barbecue sauce.
- Wrap with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Finish with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add a drizzle of hot honey before serving.
- Use peppered bacon for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled burgers.
- Pair with barbecue ribs.
- Enjoy with grilled chicken thighs.
- Serve with steak and baked potatoes.
- Add to a summer cookout buffet.
- Pair with pasta salad or coleslaw.
- Serve with pulled pork sandwiches.
Tips
- Soak wooden toothpicks before grilling.
- Use indirect heat if the bacon starts cooking too quickly.
- Keep extra glaze for dipping.
- Let the corn cool slightly before serving.
- Make extra because guests always come back for seconds.
- Use a grill basket for easier handling.
Prep Time / Cook Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
Serves: 6 people
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
Calories: 340 per serving
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 24g
Sodium: 720mg
FAQs
Can I make Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob in the oven?
Yes. Place the bacon-wrapped corn on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 30 to 35 minutes. During the final 5 minutes, brush with the barbecue glaze and continue baking until the bacon becomes crispy and caramelized.
How do I keep the bacon from unraveling while cooking?
Wrapping the bacon tightly around the corn usually works well. If needed, secure the ends with soaked toothpicks. As the bacon cooks and shrinks slightly, it will naturally tighten around the corn.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can wrap the corn in bacon several hours before cooking and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply grill and glaze as directed. This makes preparation much easier for parties and cookouts.
What type of bacon works best?
Regular thin-cut bacon is usually the best choice because it crisps more evenly during grilling. Thick-cut bacon may require additional cooking time and can sometimes leave the corn overcooked before the bacon becomes fully crisp.
Can I use frozen corn?
Fresh corn is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen corn on the cob, thaw it completely and pat it dry before wrapping with bacon to ensure proper cooking and crisping.
What dishes pair well with Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob?
This side dish pairs wonderfully with burgers, steak, barbecue chicken, ribs, pulled pork, pasta salads, potato salads, baked beans, and many other summer favorites. Its smoky and savory flavor complements almost any grilled main course.
Conclusion
Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob is a fun and delicious twist on traditional grilled corn. The combination of sweet corn, crispy bacon, and sticky barbecue glaze creates a side dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any summer gathering. Easy to prepare and impossible to resist, this recipe is sure to become a regular addition to your grilling menu.
