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Flavorful Elote-Style Grilled Corn Recipe with Cotija Cheese Butter

elote style grilled corn - featured image

A quick and easy grilled corn recipe slathered with a creamy cotija cheese butter, perfect as a flavorful side dish for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • ยฝ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • ยฝ cup (60 grams) cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Juice of 1 fresh lime
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ยฝ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with crumbled cotija cheese. Mix well until creamy and spreadable. Set aside.
  2. Remove husks and silk from the corn. Rinse and pat dry thoroughly.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400ยฐF). If using charcoal, wait until coals are covered with white ash.
  4. Place corn directly on grill grates. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until golden-brown spots and smoky aroma develop.
  5. While corn grills, mix chili powder, garlic powder, and salt into the cotija butter.
  6. Remove grilled corn and immediately spread cotija cheese butter generously over each ear while still hot.
  7. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the buttered corn and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired.
  8. Serve immediately for best taste. Leftovers can be reheated gently on the grill or in the oven.

Notes

Use softened butter for easy spreading. Turn corn frequently to avoid burning. Cotija cheese blended into butter sticks better than sprinkled on top. Fresh lime juice added after grilling keeps brightness. For vegan version, substitute dairy-free butter and vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, elote, cotija cheese, summer side dish, BBQ side, Mexican street food, easy grilled corn