Savory Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob Recipe – Perfect Summer Side

Name: Savory Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob Recipe - Perfect Summer Side
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob; 8-12 slices of thick-cut bacon; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional garnish)

Posted on November 7, 2025

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Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of crispy, smoky bacon and sweet, juicy corn. The first time I made savory bacon wrapped corn on the cob, it was a warm summer evening, and we were hosting a backyard barbecue. As I placed the sizzling, golden ears onto the picnic table, the aroma alone had everyone rushing over to grab a piece. It’s a recipe that’s simple but feels so indulgent—and trust me, it’s always a hit.

Whether you’re hosting a cookout, looking for a fun side dish, or just want a treat that’s both hearty and fresh, this recipe is the answer. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for summer gatherings. Plus, with just a few ingredients and basic techniques, you’ll have a show-stopping dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to make this your go-to summer side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: No complicated prep here—just wrap, season, and roast or grill!
Irresistible Flavor Combo: Sweet corn paired with smoky, crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering contrast you’ll crave.
Perfect for Summer BBQs: This dish screams summer fun and pairs perfectly with burgers, ribs, and potato salad.
Kid and Crowd-Friendly: Everyone loves this dish—whether they’re bacon fanatics or corn lovers!
Customizable: You can tweak the seasonings or try flavored bacon to suit your taste buds.

What sets this savory bacon wrapped corn on the cob recipe apart is its simplicity combined with bold flavors. The bacon crisps up beautifully, locking in moisture and sealing the sweet juices of the corn. It’s comfort food with a twist—one that feels indulgent yet is grounded in wholesome summer ingredients. Trust me, your guests will rave about this dish long after the plates are cleared!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe is all about pairing simple, flavorful ingredients to create a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh corn on the cob: Look for ears with bright green husks and fresh silk. Peel and remove any remaining silk before use.
Thick-cut bacon: Opt for high-quality bacon for the best flavor and texture. Maple or applewood smoked bacon works especially well.
Butter: Unsalted is ideal, so you can control the saltiness, but salted works too if that’s what you have on hand.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory note to complement the bacon.
Paprika: Smoked paprika brings a hint of earthiness and depth to the dish.
Fresh parsley or cilantro: Optional garnish for a pop of color and freshness.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning to taste.

That’s it! These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s packed with flavor. If you’re looking to switch things up, you can experiment with flavored bacon, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or even drizzle some honey before wrapping.

Equipment Needed

Luckily, you don’t need any fancy tools for this recipe! Here’s what you’ll need:

Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting the corn in the oven. Use a rimmed one to catch any bacon grease.
Optional, but helps crisp up the bacon evenly.
If grilling, you’ll need a good grill for that smoky, charred flavor.
For flipping the wrapped corn or removing it from the grill.
Handy for wrapping corn if you want to avoid direct contact with the grill grates.

If you don’t have a grill, the oven works just as well for this recipe. And trust me, the cleanup is easier with a foil-lined baking sheet!

Preparation Method

Prep the corn: Peel the husks and remove all silk from the corn. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
Season the corn: Rub each ear with a generous amount of butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Wrap with bacon: Take 2-3 slices of thick-cut bacon and wrap them tightly around each ear of corn, slightly overlapping. Secure the ends with toothpicks if needed.
For oven roasting: Place the wrapped corn on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy.
For grilling: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the wrapped corn directly on the grates or on aluminum foil. Grill for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the corn is tender.
Serve: Remove toothpicks if used, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve immediately.

Tip: If the bacon isn’t crisping up as much as you’d like, broil the corn for 2-3 minutes at the end in the oven or increase the grill heat briefly.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making savory bacon wrapped corn on the cob is straightforward, but these tips will help ensure success:

The fresher the corn, the sweeter and juicier the final dish will be. Avoid overly mature ears.
Wrapping tightly and using toothpicks will prevent the bacon from unrolling during cooking.
Bacon can drip fat, which may cause flare-ups. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
Don’t skimp on the butter and spices—this layer of flavor makes all the difference.
Broiling for a couple of minutes at the end ensures perfectly crispy bacon.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings—adding chili powder or a sprinkle of brown sugar gives this dish a whole new vibe!

Variations & Adaptations

There’s plenty of room to make this dish your own. Here are some ideas:

Sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili flakes over the buttered corn before wrapping with bacon.
Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese before wrapping the corn with bacon.
Swap bacon with thin slices of zucchini or eggplant for a veggie-friendly twist.
In fall, try this recipe with maple-glazed bacon for a comforting autumn flavor.
Use turkey bacon for a lighter option that’s still delicious.

Personally, I’ve tried a maple-bacon version with a dash of cayenne, and it’s divine! Don’t hesitate to tailor this recipe to match your favorite flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This savory bacon wrapped corn on the cob is best served hot and fresh off the grill or straight from the oven. Here are some tips to elevate your presentation:

Serve warm for the best flavor and texture. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color.
This dish goes beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, or a fresh summer salad. For drinks, try lemonade or iced tea!
Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. For the grill, wrap in foil and heat over medium flame for 5-7 minutes.
While best fresh, the flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as tasty!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This savory bacon wrapped corn on the cob is indulgent, but it also offers some great nutritional perks. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:

Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving.
Protein Boost: Thanks to the bacon and corn, this dish packs a solid hit of protein.
Vitamins: Corn is rich in vitamin B and antioxidants, while bacon offers iron and zinc.
Naturally gluten-free; can be adapted for low-carb diets with turkey bacon.

While bacon is a treat, pairing it with fresh corn balances indulgence with some wholesome nutrition. Everything in moderation, right?

Conclusion

This savory bacon wrapped corn on the cob recipe is the perfect way to celebrate summer’s bounty. With its irresistible combination of smoky, crispy bacon and sweet, juicy corn, it’s sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or family dinner. It’s simple, customizable, and packed with flavor—what’s not to love?

Give this recipe a try, and don’t be afraid to add your own twist. Whether you’re spicing it up or adding a cheesy topping, this dish is versatile and forgiving. I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Share your thoughts, questions, or successes in the comments below.

Now, go grab some fresh corn and bacon, and let the magic begin. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Fresh corn works best for this recipe because it’s juicier and sweeter, but you can use frozen corn if it’s all you have. Just make sure to thaw it completely before wrapping with bacon.

Do I need to pre-cook the bacon?

No, the bacon will cook and crisp up as the corn cooks. Just make sure to use thick-cut bacon for the best results.

What’s the best way to keep the bacon from falling off?

Wrap the bacon tightly around the corn and secure the ends with toothpicks. This will keep everything in place as it cooks.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can wrap the corn with bacon and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cook just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the corn in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or on the grill wrapped in foil for 5-7 minutes. This will help crisp the bacon back up while warming the corn.

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