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Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

grilled corn on the cob - featured image

This easy grilled corn on the cob recipe features a zesty homemade chili lime butter, making it the perfect side dish for summer BBQs, potlucks, or family gatherings. Smoky, tangy, and just a little spicy, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and silk removed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56g), at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Husk 6 ears of fresh corn, removing all silk.
  2. In a small bowl, mash together butter, chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  3. Place the husked corn directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes with tongs, until kernels are bright yellow, lightly charred, and tender.
  4. Transfer hot corn to a platter. Immediately brush or slather generously with chili lime butter so it melts into every kernel.
  5. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro for color and freshness, if using. Serve with extra lime wedges for squeezing.

Notes

For extra smokiness, leave the innermost layer of husk on and soak cobs in water for 10 minutes before grilling. Chili lime butter can be made ahead and refrigerated. Use plant-based butter for a vegan option. If your corn looks dry, brush with a little oil before grilling. Butter the corn while it’s hot for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, chili lime butter, summer BBQ, easy side dish, gluten-free, vegetarian, corn on the cob, cookout, potluck