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There’s nothing quite like biting into juicy, sweet corn that’s been kissed by smoke and slathered in buttery goodness. Traeger Corn on the Cob elevates this summer staple by infusing each ear with a gentle smoky flavor from the grill, then topping it off with a flavorful combination of melted butter, fresh cilantro, garlic, cotija cheese, and seasoning. This dish delivers a vibrant, restaurant-style experience right from your backyard smoker.

Perfect for summer barbecues, backyard gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe requires minimal prep and rewards you with bold, mouthwatering flavor. Grilling corn on a Traeger (or any pellet grill) adds a depth that boiling or steaming simply can’t match. The natural sugars in the corn caramelize slightly, while the cheese and seasoned butter bring a tangy, savory finish.

Whether you’re new to pellet grilling or a seasoned Traeger enthusiast, this corn on the cob is an easy and impressive side dish that steals the spotlight every time. Serve it alongside grilled meats, tacos, or veggie dishes for a complete feast that captures the essence of summer in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoky Grilled Flavor – Cooking on the Traeger infuses the corn with a subtle smokiness you can’t get from boiling.
Easy and Quick – Minimal prep, fast cook time, and simple ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish – Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and cookouts.
Loaded with Flavor – Butter, garlic, cilantro, and cotija cheese elevate each bite.
Great with Any Main Dish – Versatile enough to pair with grilled meats, tacos, or vegetarian mains.

Ingredients

Corn on the cob
Butter
Fresh cilantro
Garlic powder
Salt
Pepper
Cotija cheese

Variations

Make It Spicy

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Try Different Cheeses

Swap cotija for feta, parmesan, or queso fresco if desired.

Add Lime

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn for a zesty finish that pairs beautifully with the cheese and herbs.

Herb Swap

Use parsley, basil, or green onions in place of cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Vegan Option

Use plant-based butter and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your Traeger (or other pellet grill) to 400°F.

Step 2

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

Step 3

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

Step 4

Brush each ear of corn generously with the butter mixture.

Step 5

Place the corn directly on the grill grates.

Step 6

Close the lid and grill for 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly charred.

Step 7

Remove from the grill and immediately sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese.

Step 8

Serve hot, optionally garnished with more cilantro or a squeeze of lime.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use fresh, in-season corn for the sweetest, juiciest results.
Don’t skip the turning—this ensures even cooking and char.
Apply butter after grilling if you prefer a more intense buttery flavor.
Use a silicone brush to evenly coat the corn with butter.
Pre-crumble the cheese so it’s ready to sprinkle right when the corn comes off the grill.

How to Serve

Serve Traeger Corn on the Cob alongside grilled steaks, burgers, barbecue chicken, or tacos. It also pairs wonderfully with summer salads or a bowl of black beans for a vegetarian option. Add a wedge of lime or a sprinkle of chili powder to spice it up right at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the corn cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Grilled corn can be frozen, though it’s best removed from the cob first. Store kernels in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or wrap in foil and warm on the grill or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I grill the corn with the husks on?

Yes, but it will have less char. Shucked corn allows for better grill marks and flavor absorption.

2. What’s the best wood pellet flavor to use?

Hickory, mesquite, or maple all work well with corn for a balanced smoky flavor.

3. Can I make this without a Traeger grill?

Yes! Use any grill or even a grill pan on the stove for similar results.

4. Is cotija cheese necessary?

No, but it adds a great salty, tangy element. Feta or parmesan are good substitutes.

5. Can I use frozen corn?

Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw completely and dry before grilling.

6. How do I keep corn from drying out?

Baste with butter during grilling or wrap in foil if concerned about dryness.

7. What if I don’t like cilantro?

Swap it for parsley, green onions, or skip the herbs entirely.

8. Can I prepare the butter mixture ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

9. How do I know when the corn is done?

The kernels should be tender and slightly charred; press with a fork to test for doneness.

10. Can I serve it cold?

It’s best hot, but grilled corn can be served chilled in salads or salsa.

Conclusion

Traeger Corn on the Cob transforms a classic summer vegetable into a smoky, buttery, flavor-packed side dish that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or just craving a quick and tasty side, this recipe hits all the right notes—sweet, salty, creamy, and a little charred. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a dish that everyone will rave about. Fire up the grill and enjoy corn like never before!