- Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high. Brush the grates with oil or spray with non-stick grill spray to prevent sticking.
- Prep the Corn
Brush each ear of corn lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. This helps create that golden-brown char without drying out the corn.
- Grill the Corn
Place corn directly on the hot grill. Cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and slightly charred on all sides.
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- Make the Chili-Lime Butter
While the corn is grilling, mix together the softened butter, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, lime zest, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Slather and Serve
Remove grilled corn from the grill and immediately brush with the chili-lime butter so it melts into the hot kernels. Sprinkle generously with cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for extra zing.
- Calories:210 kcal
- Carbohydrates:21 g
- Protein:5 g
- Fat:12 g
- Fiber:3 g
- Sodium:220 mg
Grilled Corn with Chili-Lime Butter is the ultimate summer side dish—sweet, smoky, spicy, and satisfyingly tangy. This crowd-pleaser builds on the classic grilled corn on the cob with a flavorful upgrade inspired by Mexican street corn (elote), but without the mess. It’s ideal for casual backyard barbecues, family dinners, or festive summer parties, and it doesn’t require any complicated techniques or fancy ingredients.
The magic lies in the zesty chili-lime butter that melts into every charred kernel. Made with pantry staples like chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lime juice, the butter adds warmth and brightness without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the corn. Topped with crumbled cotija cheese, this dish becomes a flavor-packed balance of smoky, salty, citrusy, and creamy.
Why You’ll Love Grilled Corn with Chili-Lime Butter
This dish checks all the boxes for flavor and simplicity. The corn develops a smoky char on the grill, while the butter seeps into the warm kernels, infusing each bite with spice and lime tang. Cotija cheese brings a crumbly, salty texture that enhances every flavor note.
This version is a streamlined, mess-free take on elote—no mayo coatings or complicated prep. It’s perfect for novice cooks or seasoned grillers alike. Whether you serve it whole or sliced off the cob for a grilled corn salad, it’s a versatile side that feels festive without the fuss.
Health Benefits of Grilled Corn with Chili-Lime Butter
Despite being indulgent in flavor, this recipe offers several health perks:
- Rich in fiber: Corn supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Good source of antioxidants: Corn contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect eye health, and lime juice adds a dose of vitamin C.
- B vitamins for energy: Especially B6 and folate, which are important for metabolism.
- Calcium from cotija cheese: While rich, the cheese adds minerals and fat-soluble vitamins.
To keep it lighter, consider using less butter, substituting low-fat feta for cotija, or skipping the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.
Customization & Serving Tips
This dish is all about flexibility. You can:
- Adjust the heat: Use cayenne, chipotle powder, or mild chili blends.
- Change the cheese: Swap cotija for feta or Parmesan.
- Add garnish: Try smoked sea salt, chopped cilantro, or lime crema.
- Make it a salad: Slice the corn off the cob and mix with avocado, black beans, or diced bell peppers.
Serve it with grilled chicken, burgers, tacos, or as part of a vegetarian summer spread. It’s naturally gluten-free and easy to scale up for a crowd.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Corn with Chili-Lime Butter is more than just a seasonal side—it’s a bold, vibrant dish that brings fun and flavor to your summer table. Its easy prep and customizable nature make it a go-to recipe for any outdoor meal. With just the right balance of smoky char, zesty citrus, and creamy richness, it’s a dish that celebrates summer in every bite.
