My Cajun corn on the cob is smoky, buttery, and just the right amount of spicy to make it perfect for summer cookouts! I toss the corn in seasoned butter and squeeze fresh lime over the top for a bright finish.
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My Favorite Way to Make Cajun Corn
One summer evening when my husband Ben was grilling, I was trying to figure out an easy side to make. I knew plain corn with butter wasn’t going to stand up to the flavors of the chicken he was grilling, but then I got the idea to make cajun corn on the cob!
I love roasting, grilling, and even air frying corn on the cob, but boiling is one of the easiest way to get more cobs cooked at a time. And because I knew I was going to toss the corn in the cajun butter mixture after cooking, I didn’t need the flavors you get from cooking corn other ways. Boiling just made sense.
Sure enough, the cajun corn definitely held its own against the big flavors of my husband’s grilled chicken! Now this is my go-to summer side dish whenever I want something super easy that can stand up to a main course with big flavors.
And if you love corn recipes, try my recipes for air fryer corn on the cob, crock pot corn on the cob, creamed corn, corn nuggets, corn casserole, corn dip, and air fryer frozen corn on the cob.
Corn on the Cob Ingredients
- Corn on the cob – Fresh corn has the best texture and natural sweetness. I husk and clean the corn prior to boiling.
- Butter – This ingredient does double duty! It adds richness and flavor, but it also is what allows the seasoning mixture to stick to the corn.
- Cajun seasoning – I love the flavor I get from this smoky, spicy blend of paprika, garlic powder, and other cajun spices.
- Lime – I squeeze lime juice over the corn to brighten and balance the richness of the butter and spice.
- Minced parsley or cilantro – Optional, but this fresh, herby garnish adds nice color and another layer of taste.
How to Make Cajun Corn on the Cob
A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.
STEP ONE: Place a large pot of water on the stove. Add salt and bring it to a boil.
STEP TWO: Carefully add the ears of corn to the boiling water. Boil them for about 5 minutes, or until they’re tender and bright yellow.
STEP THREE: In a small bowl, combine the butter and Cajun seasoning then melt it in the microwave for about 45 seconds.
STEP FOUR: Transfer the corn to a serving platter. Using a brush, coat the corn with the butter mixture. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkling of parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Cajun Corn Recipe
- I boil the corn on the cob until the kernels turn bright yellow and become tender, usually about 5 minutes.
- I melt the butter so it’s easy to brush on the corn evenly. I microwave mine for about 45 seconds.
- Coat while the corn is warm so the butter and seasoning cling better. I brush it right after removing the corn from the boiling water.
- Fresh corn is always my go-to for this recipe. It makes such a difference in the flavor and juiciness!
- I reduce the amount of cajun seasoning or switch to black pepper if I’m making a batch for my kids. They don’t like food that’s too spicy!
Variations and Substitutions for Seasoned Corn on the Cob
- For authentic street corn flavor, I top my cajun corn with a mayo-sour cream spread, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.
- If I want to try out a different flavor, I’ll go with another seasoning blend like Italian, curry, garlic, or simple salt and pepper.
- A sprinkle on parmesan, asiago, or feta is a great way to add a cheesy twist. My kids always want me to make this version!
- To make in the air fryer, baste the corn with the Cajun butter mixture then air fry for 12-14 minutes at 400 degrees F.
- I sometimes switch out the plain butter for an herb-infused butter or a simple touch of mayonnaise.
- If corn on the cob is out of season, I sometimes will mix together canned corn or frozen corn with butter and cajun seasoning and enjoy it that way!
What to Serve With Corn on the Cob
I always think of corn on the cob as a classic summer side, so I love serving it with dishes like hamburgers in the oven, my pulled pork sandwich, or steak quesadillas!
It also goes really well with air fryer chicken drumsticks, BBQ chicken salad, or air fryer pork tenderloin!
Cajun Corn on the Cob FAQs
How should I store leftover Cajun corn?
I wrap any leftover corn on the cob in foil once it cools and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. The seasoned butter helps keep it flavorful!
How to reheat leftover corn on the cob
I like to reheat leftover corn in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 5 minutes wrapped in foil. I’ve also popped it on the grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, turning often so the spice mix warms through. I’ve even reheated it in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for about 3 minutes.
Why is my Cajun corn on the cob soggy?
Soggy corn was usually boiled for too long. Overcooking causes the kernels to absorb too much water, which makes them lose their crisp bite and fresh flavor. I keep a close eye on the pot and only boil the corn for about 5–6 minutes, just until the kernels are bright yellow and tender.
More Summer Side Dishes
- Baked beans recipe
- Easy macaroni salad
- Air fryer potato wedges
- Garlic green beans
- Velveeta mac and cheese
Easy Cajun Corn on the Cob
Ingredients
- 6 corn on the cobs husk and silks removed
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 lime sliced into wedges
- Minced parsley or cilantro optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then carefully add the corn on the cob and boil it for 5 minutes, or until it's bright yellow and tender.
- Meanwhile, melt the butter and Cajun seasoning together (using the microwave takes about 45 seconds).
- Carefully transfer the corn to a serving platter, then brush it with the butter mixture, squeeze some lime juice on top, and sprinkle with parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Coat while the corn is warm so the butter and seasoning cling better. I brush it right after removing the corn from the boiling water.
- You can also use canned corn or frozen corn instead. Just mix it with the butter and Cajun seasoning once heated.
- To make in the air fryer, baste the corn with the Cajun butter mixture, then air fry for 12-14 minutes at 400 degrees F.
- Store leftovers in foil or an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 5 minutes wrapped in foil, on the grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, or in the air fryer at 350 degrees for 3 minutes.
Nutrition
This nutrition information is based on the exact products I used in this recipe. Brands and sizes of products could alter exact nutrition and should always be calculated independently.
