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Flavorful Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Cotija Butter

grilled corn on the cob - featured image

A quick and easy grilled corn recipe featuring a spicy, tangy chili lime cotija butter that brings vibrant flavor to any summer BBQ or picnic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C), which usually takes 10-15 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, crumbled cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, cumin (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
  3. Peel the outer green husks and silk off each ear of corn. Rinse and pat dry.
  4. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even charring.
  5. Check for doneness; the corn should be tender but still slightly crunchy. For softer corn, wrap in foil and grill an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Remove corn from the grill and immediately spread the chili lime cotija butter generously over each ear.
  7. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the corn for garnish and serve hot.

Notes

If butter is too firm to spread, warm slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to control flare-ups. Toast chili powder in a dry pan for 30 seconds before mixing to deepen flavor. For softer corn, wrap in foil and grill longer. Butter mixture can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, chili lime butter, cotija cheese, summer BBQ, easy corn recipe, spicy corn, Mexican side dish