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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Corn on the Cob Recipe with Zesty Cilantro Lime Butter

bacon-wrapped corn on the cob - featured image

A simple and satisfying recipe featuring corn on the cob wrapped in crispy bacon and topped with a zesty cilantro lime butter, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 8 strips bacon, thin to medium thickness
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 large lime, zested and juiced
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the cilantro lime butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whip together until well blended and creamy. Set aside.
  3. Wrap the corn: Take each ear of corn and wrap two strips of bacon around it, starting at one end and spiraling down to the other. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine if needed.
  4. Place the bacon-wrapped corn on the prepared baking sheet with the bacon seam facing down.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning each ear halfway through cooking to promote even crisping. Watch closely after 20 minutes; bacon should be golden and crisp, corn tender but not dry.
  6. Remove the corn from the oven. While still hot, generously brush the cilantro lime butter all over each ear. The heat will melt the butter and soak into the bacon and corn.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cilantro leaves or a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.

Notes

Use thin or medium-cut bacon for best crisping; thick-cut bacon requires longer cooking. Let the cilantro lime butter rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before applying for better flavor melding. To prevent bacon from unraveling, wrap tightly and secure with toothpicks or twine. For extra smoky flavor, finish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning. Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 2 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes; avoid microwaving to keep bacon crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped corn, cilantro lime butter, crispy bacon corn, easy corn recipe, summer side dish, BBQ side, quick corn recipe