Print

Flavorful Elote-Style Roasted Corn with Easy Chili Lime Butter

elote-style roasted corn - featured image
Print Recipe

A simple and bold roasted corn recipe featuring a smoky, tangy, and spicy chili lime butter that captures the spirit of Mexican street corn. Perfect for summer gatherings and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Zest of 2 fresh limes
  • Juice of 2 fresh limes
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese or feta, crumbled (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Drizzle of honey (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and juice of 1 lime. Mix until smooth. Adjust seasoning and add cayenne pepper if desired.
  3. Generously brush each ear of corn with the chili lime butter mixture using a spoon or brush.
  4. Place the corn on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes with tongs to char evenly on all sides.
  5. Once roasted, brush the corn with any leftover butter mixture for a glossy finish.
  6. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese or feta over the corn, scatter fresh cilantro on top, and squeeze the remaining lime juice over everything.
  7. Serve warm, straight from the oven.

Notes

Use softened butter rather than melted for better texture and coating. Fresh lime zest is essential for bright flavor. Turn corn regularly during roasting to avoid bitter spots. For dairy-free, substitute butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives or omit cheese. Adding a pinch of chipotle powder or cayenne pepper can increase smoky heat. Leftovers reheat well under the broiler or microwave with extra butter brushed on.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote, roasted corn, chili lime butter, Mexican street corn, summer side dish, smoky corn, easy corn recipe

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/flavorful-elote-style-roasted-corn-recipe-with-easy-chili-lime-butter/