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Flavorful Grilled Corn on the Cob Elote-Style with Chili Lime Butter

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This grilled corn on the cob Elote-style with chili lime butter is a quick, easy, and flavorful side dish perfect for BBQs and summer meals. The chili lime butter adds a vibrant zing that makes every bite pop with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (about 115g), softened to room temperature
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (Ancho chili powder recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese

Instructions

  1. Husk the fresh corn and remove all silks. Rinse the ears under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, fresh lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Let it come to temperature, about 10 minutes.
  4. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 10-12 minutes total, turning every 2-3 minutes using tongs until kernels develop a nice char and slightly blistered look.
  5. Once grilled, immediately brush or spread the chili lime butter generously all over each ear of corn.
  6. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese over the buttered corn. Serve warm with an optional extra squeeze of fresh lime.

Notes

Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Butter can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before use. Adjust chili powder and cayenne pepper to taste. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based margarine and use vegan cheese alternatives. Soaking corn with husks on before grilling can keep kernels juicy. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to control grill flare-ups.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://forkmila.com/flavorful-grilled-corn-on-the-cob-elote-style-with-chili-lime-butter-recipe-tips/