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Flavorful Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter - featured image

A quick and easy grilled corn on the cob recipe featuring a zesty chili lime butter that adds smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors perfect for summer BBQs and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lime
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Optional toppings: crumbled cotija cheese, extra lime juice, smoked sea salt

Instructions

  1. Remove husks and silk from 4-6 ears of fresh corn. Rinse and pat dry (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with lime zest and juice. Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated (about 3 minutes).
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 205°C). If using a grill pan, heat over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
  4. Place corn directly on grill grates. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to get char marks and smoky aroma without burning. If using grill pan, rotate corn carefully with tongs.
  5. During the last 3-4 minutes of grilling, baste corn generously with chili lime butter using a basting brush to lock in flavor and moisture.
  6. Remove corn from grill and immediately brush again with butter for extra richness. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and optional toppings like cotija cheese or extra lime juice.
  7. Serve warm for best texture and flavor.

Notes

If butter hardens before basting, soften it in the microwave for 10 seconds without melting. Control grill heat to avoid burning; turn corn every 2-3 minutes. Use fresh lime zest and juice for best flavor. Let corn rest a minute after final butter application to meld flavors. For stovetop, use a grill pan and rotate carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, chili lime butter, summer BBQ, easy side dish, spicy corn, grilled vegetables