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Flavorful Grilled Elote Mexican Street Corn Recipe with Jalapeño Tajin Butter

grilled elote - featured image

A simple and delicious grilled Mexican street corn recipe featuring jalapeño-infused Tajin butter, creamy mayo spread, and cotija cheese for a perfect summer treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely minced (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 2 teaspoons Tajin seasoning
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C), approximately 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, finely minced jalapeño (seed-free unless extra heat desired), and 1 teaspoon Tajin seasoning. Mix until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, stir together mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, remaining 1 teaspoon Tajin, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Place husked corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until charred and golden with smoky aroma.
  5. Remove corn from grill and immediately spread jalapeño Tajin butter all over while hot.
  6. Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the buttered corn.
  7. Generously crumble cotija cheese over the corn and scatter fresh cilantro on top.
  8. Sprinkle extra Tajin or salt if desired and serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Prepare jalapeño Tajin butter a few hours ahead and refrigerate for deeper flavor. Bring to room temperature before spreading. Turn corn every 2-3 minutes for even charring. Let corn cool slightly before applying mayonnaise to prevent sliding. Use fresh cotija cheese for best texture and flavor. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or olive oil, use vegan mayo, and omit or replace cheese with vegan alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled elote, Mexican street corn, jalapeño Tajin butter, summer recipe, grilled corn, spicy corn, cotija cheese, easy BBQ side