What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Spicy Grilled Corn recipe is a crowd-pleaser with its bold flavors and simplicity. You’ll love how it transforms ordinary corn into a smoky, spicy delight that’s perfect for any summer gathering.
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, taking just minutes to grill to perfection.
- The spicy seasoning blend adds a kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the corn.
- It’s versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings for a unique twist every time.
Recipe

Grilled corn is a summer staple that gets a flavorful upgrade with a spicy twist. This recipe combines the smoky char of the grill with a zesty, spicy seasoning blend, making it a perfect side dish for barbecues or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husks removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush each ear of corn with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the corn, turning to coat all sides.
- Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
- Remove the corn from the grill and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Serving: 4
Calories: ~150 per ear of corn
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Spicy grilled corn is a flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of corn with a kick of heat. It’s a popular side that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Nutrition | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150 |
Fat | 6g |
Carbohydrates | 24g |
Protein | 3g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sugar | 5g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing spicy grilled corn with grilled meats like chicken or steak; the smoky flavors complement each other perfectly.
On the side, I’ll toss together a fresh salad with crisp veggies to balance the heat.
It’s a combo I can’t get enough of, and I bet you’ll feel the same way!
Grilled Meats
When I’m firing up the grill for juicy steaks or smoky ribs, I always think about what’ll make the meal complete.
A good marinade is key—I love mixing soy sauce, garlic, and honey for a sweet-savory kick, or lime juice and chili powder for a zesty twist.
Grilling techniques matter too; I sear steaks hot and fast for a crispy crust, while ribs get low and slow for tender perfection.
Pairing these with spicy grilled corn adds a smoky, spicy balance that’s hard to beat.
It’s all about layering flavors and textures for a meal that feels like a celebration.
Fresh Salads
After savoring the smoky richness of grilled meats and the zesty kick of spicy corn, it’s invigorating to balance the meal with something light and crisp.
I love tossing together a fresh salad with vibrant, fresh ingredients like crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce. Adding creative salad toppings, like toasted nuts, crumbled cheese, or tangy dried cranberries, makes it even more exciting.
A simple vinaigrette ties it all together. It’s a revitalizing contrast to the bold flavors of the main dishes, and it’s so easy to customize.
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies without feeling like a chore.