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Flavorful Grilled Corn Recipe with Spicy Mayo and Cotija Cheese

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A quick and easy grilled corn recipe featuring smoky charred corn slathered with creamy spicy mayo and topped with salty Cotija cheese, perfect for summer BBQs and casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the spicy mayo: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, finely chopped chipotle in adobo, freshly squeezed lime juice, and minced garlic. Stir well until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust spice or lime as desired.
  2. Prep the corn: Husk the corn and remove all silk strands. Pat dry with a paper towel. Brush each ear evenly with 2 tablespoons melted butter, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high on the stovetop.
  4. Grill the corn: Place the ears on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes to get even charring on all sides. Grill for 10-12 minutes until golden-brown with some blackened spots, avoiding overcooking to keep kernels juicy.
  5. Apply spicy mayo: Remove the grilled corn from heat and, while still warm, slather each ear generously with the spicy mayo mixture.
  6. Add Cotija and garnish: Sprinkle the crumbled Cotija cheese over the mayo-coated corn. Scatter chopped cilantro and a dusting of smoked paprika on top for color and extra flavor.
  7. Serve immediately: Serve the corn hot off the grill for best taste and texture.

Notes

If mayo is too thick, thin with a teaspoon of water or more lime juice. Turn corn gently every 2-3 minutes to avoid burning. Making spicy mayo ahead and refrigerating enhances flavor. For dairy-free, use vegan mayo and nutritional yeast instead of Cotija cheese. If no grill available, broil corn in oven turning frequently.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, spicy mayo, Cotija cheese, summer BBQ, easy side dish, smoky corn, chipotle mayo