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Crispy Grilled Mexican Street Corn Recipe with Cotija Cheese and Tajín Lime Butter

crispy grilled mexican street corn - featured image

A quick and easy grilled Mexican street corn recipe featuring smoky charred corn smothered with creamy Cotija cheese and tangy Tajín lime butter, perfect for summer BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Fresh corn on the cob (ears with bright green husks and plump kernels)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons Tajín seasoning (or chili powder and lime zest as substitute)
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • ½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Pinch of kosher salt, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel back the husks of each ear without removing them entirely, remove the silk, then fold the husks back into place. Soak the ears in cold water for 10 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. (If using a grill pan, remove husks and silk entirely.)
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with 2 tablespoons Tajín seasoning and juice of one lime. Mix well until smooth and aromatic. Optionally add 1 teaspoon lime zest for extra zing.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Clean and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Place soaked corn on the grill with husks pulled back or removed. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until kernels are charred but not burnt.
  5. Remove corn from grill and while still hot, brush generously with Tajín lime butter so it melts into the kernels.
  6. Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the buttered corn, pressing lightly so it sticks. Add a pinch of kosher salt if needed.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Soak corn husks before grilling to prevent burning and keep kernels juicy. Apply Tajín lime butter after grilling to avoid flare-ups. Use a brush for even butter coverage. Turn corn every 2-3 minutes for even char. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat best on grill or oven to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican street corn, elote, grilled corn, Cotija cheese, Tajín lime butter, summer BBQ, easy side dish