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Flavorful Grilled Corn on the Cob with Elote Butter

grilled corn on the cob with elote butter - featured image

A smoky, creamy, and spicy grilled corn on the cob recipe featuring a rich elote butter blend with lime, chili, and cotija cheese. Perfect for summer BBQs and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/3 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, helps butter stick and adds richness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Elote Butter: In a medium bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, mayonnaise (if using), minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and crumbled cotija cheese. Mix well until creamy and fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning as desired.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat grill to medium-high, about 375°F to 450°F (190°C to 230°C).
  3. Husk the Corn: Remove husks and silk completely. Optionally soak ears in cold water for 10 minutes for more moisture.
  4. Grill the Corn: Place corn directly on grill grates. Turn every 3-4 minutes using tongs to evenly char all sides. Grill for 15-20 minutes until smoky aroma and light blackening appear.
  5. Apply Elote Butter: Remove corn from grill and immediately slather with elote butter while hot, allowing it to melt into kernels.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle extra cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

If elote butter firms up while applying, soften in microwave for 10-15 seconds. Turn corn every 3-4 minutes for even charring. Butter can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated. For dairy-free, use plant-based butter and vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, elote butter, summer BBQ, Mexican street corn, spicy corn, cotija cheese, lime, chili powder