Flavorful Grilled Corn Recipe with Easy Cilantro Lime Butter Topping
This grilled corn recipe features perfectly charred ears of corn topped with a creamy, tangy cilantro lime butter. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for summer cookouts, delivering a fresh and vibrant flavor that pairs well with any grilled meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
- 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Pinch of ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F).
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional chili powder. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Remove the outer husks and silk from each ear of corn. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
- Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes to char all sides evenly.
- Transfer the grilled corn to a clean plate. While still hot, spread the cilantro lime butter generously over each ear.
- Serve immediately for best flavor. If holding, keep wrapped loosely in foil to retain warmth.
Notes
Avoid over-charring the corn to prevent bitterness. Keep butter softened but not melted for easy spreading. Prepare the butter mixture while the corn grills to save time. For vegan version, substitute butter with plant-based spread and add nutritional yeast for umami. Leftovers can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or briefly on the grill.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 230
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: grilled corn, cilantro lime butter, summer side dish, barbecue, easy corn recipe, grilled vegetables, backyard cookout