Roasted Corn in the Oven

The Easiest Way to Make Perfectly Roasted Corn in the Oven – No Grill Needed

There’s something magical about biting into perfectly roasted corn—its sweet kernels bursting with smoky, caramelized flavor. Traditionally, roasted corn is associated with grills and outdoor barbecues, but what if I told you that you could achieve the same delicious results right in your kitchen? Today, I’m excited to share my go-to method for roasting corn in the oven. It’s quick, simple, and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. Let’s dive in!

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Why Roast Corn in the Oven?

I remember the first time I made roasted corn in the oven. I didn’t have a grill, but I wanted to recreate the delicious corn I’d eaten at a friend’s summer barbecue. After some trial and error, I discovered that the oven is not only a worthy alternative but also a game-changer. It’s a hands-off method that ensures even cooking and consistent results. Plus, it’s perfect for those of us who live in apartments or areas where outdoor grilling isn’t always an option.

Roasting corn in the oven is versatile and works beautifully for all kinds of dishes, from simple buttered corn to indulgent Mexican-inspired recipes. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick family meal, this method is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

4 ears of corn on the cob (fresh is best!)

2 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter

1 teaspoon of salt

½ teaspoon of black pepper

Optional toppings:

• 1 teaspoon of chili powder (for a Mexican twist)
• 2 tablespoons of grated cotija cheese
• Juice of 1 lime

These ingredients are simple, but they’re the foundation for a truly delicious dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Roast Corn in the Oven

1. Prepare Your Corn

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you prefer a smoky, charred flavor, you can increase the temperature to 450°F.

Decide whether to husk your corn or leave the husks on. Leaving the husks intact creates a natural steaming effect, making the kernels tender and juicy. Husked corn, on the other hand, roasts directly, allowing for caramelization and a slightly smoky taste.

2. Season the Corn

Brush each ear of corn with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add chili powder or your favorite seasoning blend for an extra kick.

3. Roast the Corn

Place the prepared corn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning the corn halfway through to ensure even cooking. If you’ve left the husks on, peel them back during the last 5 minutes to let the kernels brown slightly.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Once your corn is beautifully roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with lime juice and grated cotija cheese for a Mexican-inspired twist, or serve as is for a classic roasted corn experience.

Elevate Your Roasted Corn Recipe

Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Transform your oven-roasted corn into Mexican street-style corn with these simple steps:

1. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on each roasted ear of corn.

2. Sprinkle generously with grated cotija cheese.

3. Add a pinch of chili powder and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top.

The result? A creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible treat that’s perfect for entertaining or indulging on your own.

Must-Have Tools for Perfect Roasted Corn

To make your roasted corn experience even easier, here are three Amazon products I personally recommend:

1. Silicone Basting Brush

A basting brush makes it effortless to apply butter or oil evenly over your corn. I use the OXO Good Grips Silicone Basting Brush, which is heat-resistant and easy to clean.

Check it out on Amazon here!

2. Non-Stick Baking Sheet

A durable baking sheet ensures even roasting and prevents sticking. The USA Pan Half Sheet Baking Pan is my favorite for its heavy-duty construction and non-stick coating.

Shop now on Amazon!

3. Corn Stripper Tool

If you love using roasted corn kernels in salads or soups, a corn stripper tool is a game-changer. The Chef’n Cob Corn Stripper is compact, efficient, and saves tons of time.

Get yours on Amazon today!

Each of these tools has made my cooking process smoother, and I’m confident they’ll do the same for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Roast Frozen Corn on the Cob?

Absolutely! While fresh corn delivers the best flavor, frozen corn on the cob can be roasted directly from frozen. Just increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes.

How Do I Store Leftover Roasted Corn?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve the texture.

Can I Roast Corn Without Foil?

Yes! Foil is optional. Roasting directly on the baking sheet allows for more caramelization, while foil-wrapped corn stays tender and steamy.

Roasting corn in the oven is an easy, flavorful, and versatile way to enjoy this summertime favorite year-round. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or elevating it with Mexican-inspired toppings, this method is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

So what are you waiting for? Grab some fresh corn on the cob and try this easy recipe today. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag me—I’d love to see your twists on this classic dish. Happy roasting!