Cajun Corn on the Cob

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Cajun Corn on the Cob – Roasted, Creamy & Bursting with Bold Flavor

If you’re looking for a side dish that steals the spotlight, this Cajun Corn on the Cob is your new go-to recipe. Roasted until tender and slightly caramelized, then slathered in a spicy, creamy Cajun mayo sauce and topped with crumbled cheese, fresh cilantro, and a dash of smoky heat, this dish is summer on a stick. It’s bold, creamy, spicy, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, prepping for a potluck, or just craving something different for dinner, this easy corn recipe delivers flavor in every bite.

 Ingredients & Their Delicious Purpose

  • 4 ears of corn, husked – The star of the dish, providing sweet, juicy kernels that caramelize beautifully when roasted.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps crisp and roast the corn while carrying the spice blend deep into every kernel.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the natural sweetness of the corn.
  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise (vegan mayo if preferred) – Creates a creamy base for the Cajun sauce that clings perfectly to the corn.
  • ⅓ cup sour cream or Mexican crema – Adds tangy richness that mellows the spice and enhances the creamy texture.
  • 1½ tsp Cajun spice (plus more for topping) – A bold, spicy-sweet blend that delivers the signature Louisiana flair.
  • 1½ tsp smoked paprika – Infuses smoky depth and vibrant color into both the corn and the sauce.
  • 1 tsp onion powder – Enhances the savory base with mild sweetness.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder – Adds an aromatic, slightly spicy kick to every bite.
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped – Brightens the dish with fresh, herbal flavor and vibrant color.
  • ½ cup feta or Cotija cheese, crumbled – Adds salty, crumbly contrast to the creamy sauce and sweet corn.
  • 1 tbsp lime juice – Cuts through the richness with zesty acidity and brings balance to the flavors.
  • 1 tsp chipotle or chili powder (optional) – For those who like it hot, this boosts the smoky heat even more.

 How to Make Cajun Corn on the Cob – Step-by-Step

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (218°C). This high heat ensures the corn roasts quickly and caramelizes on the edges for maximum flavor.

2. Mix the Cajun Spice Oil

In a small bowl, whisk together:

  • Olive oil
  • ½ of the Cajun spice
  • ½ of the smoked paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt and pepper

This spice-infused oil will coat the corn and create a flavorful crust as it roasts.

3. Season and Wrap the Corn

Place each ear of corn on its own sheet of foil. Brush generously with the Cajun oil mixture, ensuring every kernel is coated. Wrap the foil tightly around each cob to lock in moisture and flavor.

4. Bake the Corn

Place wrapped corn directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes.
For softer, more tender corn, open the foil slightly, brush with more oil, and bake for another 20–25 minutes.

5. Prepare the Cajun Mayo Sauce

While the corn roasts, stir together in a medium bowl:

  • Mayonnaise
  • Sour cream
  • Remaining Cajun spice and smoked paprika
  • Lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Add a pinch of chipotle or chili powder if you like extra heat and smokiness.

6. Unwrap and Cool Slightly

Remove corn from the oven and let cool for 3–5 minutes. This helps the sauce adhere better.

7. Coat with Cajun Sauce

Brush each cob with a generous layer of the creamy Cajun mayo mixture, making sure it gets between the kernels.

8. Optional: Grill for Charred Perfection

For that authentic street corn flair, briefly grill on a hot, greased grill pan or outdoor grill, turning to lightly char each side.

9. Garnish and Serve

Top each cob with:

  • Crumbled feta or Cotija cheese
  • Chopped cilantro
  • A sprinkle of extra Cajun spice or chili powder

Serve warm and messy, just the way corn should be.

 Why Everyone Loves This Cajun Corn

This isn’t just corn – it’s a flavor explosion. The creamy sauce balances the spicy Cajun kick, while the cheese adds salty richness. Roasting in foil gives it a steamed texture inside with toasty edges, and that final grill (optional, but recommended) adds a smoky char that’s downright addictive.

 Pro Tips for Perfect Cajun Corn

  • Use fresh, in-season corn for the best texture and sweetness.
  • Want it spicier? Add more Cajun seasoning or a splash of hot sauce to the mayo blend.
  • No grill? Broil on high for 1–2 minutes to mimic that charred effect.
  • Make it ahead: Roast the corn earlier in the day and simply grill or reheat before serving.
  • Cheese swaps: Queso fresco, Parmesan, or even blue cheese crumbles work if Cotija isn’t on hand.

 Serving Suggestions

Pair this bold Cajun corn with:

  • Grilled chicken, ribs, or blackened fish for a Southern-inspired feast.
  • A crisp coleslaw or cucumber salad to cool the spice.
  • Iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer to wash it all down.

This dish also works beautifully as a taco filling – just cut the kernels off the cob and layer onto tortillas with extra sauce!

 Final Thoughts: Easy, Flavor-Packed, and Always a Hit

This Cajun Corn on the Cob is more than just a side dish—it’s a showstopper. From backyard cookouts to casual weeknight dinners, it’s effortless to prepare, packed with spicy, creamy, cheesy goodness, and endlessly customizable. With just a few pantry staples and fresh corn, you can bring big, bold flavor to the table any day of the week.

Try it once, and it’ll become your signature side.

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