Cajun Spiced Roasted Corn Cob (Printable)

Sweet corn roasted to perfection with a bold, smoky Cajun spice blend, finished with fresh lime and herbs. A vibrant side.

# What goes in:

→ Corn

01 - 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked

→ Cajun Butter

02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
09 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
11 - 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Garnish

12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
13 - 1 lime, cut into wedges

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 425°F or prepare your grill to medium-high heat.
02 - In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
03 - Gently pat the husked corn ears dry. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, or place them directly onto the prepared grill.
04 - Using a pastry brush, generously apply the prepared Cajun butter mixture over all surfaces of each corn ear.
05 - Roast the corn in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking process, until the kernels are tender and exhibit a slight char. If grilling, cook for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating occasionally for even cooking.
06 - Remove the roasted corn from the oven or grill. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve immediately with lime wedges for a fresh squeeze.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's ridiculously simple to make, but tastes like you put in hours of effort.
  • The smoky, spicy kick paired with sweet corn is an absolute flavor explosion you won't want to miss.
02 -
  • Never skip patting the corn dry; wet corn steams instead of roasting, hindering that lovely char and crispness.
  • Always use softened butter; trying to mix cold butter with spices is a frustrating, lumpy endeavor.
03 -
  • For an even deeper flavor, let the spiced butter sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature before applying to allow the flavors to meld.
  • To easily apply the butter, stand the corn upright on one end and brush downwards, rotating, then repeat for the other end.