Dinner Recipes

February 4, 2026

Mexican Street Corn Recipe: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy

Name: Mexican Street Corn Recipe: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 lime, juiced; Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

📊

Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

31 Views • 10 min read

Mexican Street Corn Recipe: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy

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I can’t even begin to tell you how much I adore this Mexican Street Corn recipe, also known as Elote! There’s just something magical about those vibrant flavors dancing together—grilled corn, creamy goodness, and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s like a fiesta on a cob! I whip this up for every summer barbecue, and let me tell you, it’s always the star of the show. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make, and the way it elevates any gathering is simply unbeatable. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients List

4 ears of fresh corn, husked and cleaned
1/2 cup mayonnaise, for that creamy base
1/2 cup sour cream, to add a tangy touch
1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta if you prefer a twist)
1 teaspoon chili powder, adjust based on your spice preference
1 lime, juiced for a zesty kick
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for a delightful garnish

How to Prepare Mexican Street Corn Recip

Prepping the Corn

Alright, let’s get started! First, you’ll want to husk the corn. Just peel back those green leaves and remove the silky threads that cling to the kernels. It’s important to get all that silk off; nobody wants a gritty bite! Once that’s done, give the corn a quick rinse under water to ensure it’s nice and clean. Pat them dry with a towel, and you’re ready to grill!

Grilling the Corn

Now for the fun part—grilling! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Place the corn directly on the grill grates and let them cook for about 10 to 15 minutes. Make sure to turn the ears every few minutes so they get a beautiful char all around. You’ll know they’re done when you see those lovely grill marks and the kernels start to plump up. The smell alone is enough to make your mouth water!

Preparing the Creamy Sauce

While the corn is grilling, let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder. Give it a good stir until everything is mixed well and you get a nice, smooth texture. You want it to be creamy but not too thick—something that will generously coat your corn without being overwhelming!

Assembling the Dish

Once your corn is perfectly grilled and slightly cooled, it’s time to assemble! Generously coat each ear of corn with that luscious creamy mixture, ensuring every inch is covered. Then, sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the top—don’t be shy here, more cheese is always better! Finally, finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that burst of color and freshness. Wow, doesn’t it look stunning? You’re all set to serve and impress your friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly simple to make, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
The flavors are vibrant and addictive—grilled corn with creamy sauce and a tangy kick is a match made in heaven!
It’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a great side dish for everyone at your barbecue.
It only takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, so you can whip it up in no time!
Customization is a breeze! You can easily adjust the spices and toppings to suit your taste.
It’s a crowd-pleaser—every bite brings smiles and compliments, guaranteed!
Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a cozy night in; it fits any occasion.

Tips for Success

Want to nail this Mexican Street Corn recipe? Here are some of my favorite tips that’ll take your elote to the next level!

Use Fresh Corn: Always go for the freshest corn you can find! Fresh corn not only tastes better but also has the perfect crunch that makes each bite a delight. If you can, visit a local farmer’s market!
Grill at the Right Temperature: Medium-high heat is key! If it’s too low, you won’t get that beautiful char, and if it’s too high, you might burn the corn. Keep an eye on it and turn it every few minutes for even cooking.
Don’t Overcook: Aim for that charred, caramelized look on the corn, but don’t let it sit too long on the grill. About 10-15 minutes should do the trick! You want those kernels to stay juicy and tender.
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to play around with the creamy sauce! If you like garlic, add some minced garlic or garlic powder. Want a spicier kick? Toss in some jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. It’s all about your taste!
Let It Cool Slightly: After grilling, let the corn sit for a minute before coating it with the sauce. This little pause helps the sauce stick better and prevents it from sliding off too quickly.
Presentation Matters: When serving, don’t skimp on the garnishes! A sprinkle of cilantro and extra cheese makes it look irresistible. Plus, it adds a fresh flavor that brightens everything up!

So there you have it! Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be the star of your next barbecue, impressing everyone with your amazing Mexican Street Corn!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your Mexican Street Corn recipe! Here are some of my favorite variations that add a little twist to this classic dish:

Spicy Twist: Want some heat? Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the creamy sauce. You can even mix in some chipotle powder for a smoky flavor that packs a punch!
Cheese Swap: While cotija cheese is traditional, why not try other cheeses? Feta adds a crumbly texture, or for a creamier option, go for queso fresco. You could even mix in some shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile!
Herb Infusion: If you love fresh herbs, try mixing in some chopped fresh parsley or green onions into the creamy sauce for an herby kick. It brightens the flavors and adds a lovely color!
Yummy Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Crushed tortilla chips add a nice crunch, or sprinkle some pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness against the savory flavors. You could also drizzle some hot sauce on top for extra flair!
Garlic Lover’s Delight: If you’re a garlic fan like me, why not add some minced garlic or garlic powder to the sauce? It brings a whole new depth of flavor that’s just divine!
Sweet and Savory: For a different take, brush the corn with a little honey or agave syrup before grilling. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory sauce and cheese, creating a unique flavor combo!

These variations are just the beginning! Don’t be afraid to mix and match your favorite ingredients to create your perfect Mexican Street Corn. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to explore them!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying delicious food like this Mexican Street Corn, it’s nice to have a little insight into its nutritional value. Here’s the estimated nutritional information per serving (that’s one ear of corn, folks!):

Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 7g

Please keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to adjust according to your dietary needs, but knowing the basics helps you enjoy this dish guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making this delicious Mexican Street Corn? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up while you’re whipping up this tasty treat:

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
While fresh corn really shines in this recipe, you can absolutely use frozen corn if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese works well as a substitute! It has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor. You could also try queso fresco, which is milder and slightly creamier.

How do I know when the corn is done grilling?
You’ll want to look for those beautiful char marks and plump kernels! Generally, grilling the corn for about 10-15 minutes should do the trick. Just keep turning it every few minutes to get that even char.

Can I make the creamy sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the creamy sauce a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly while chilling.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Mexican Street Corn?
This elote pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside some chips and salsa for a festive spread. As for drinks, a nice cold cerveza or a refreshing agua fresca complements it perfectly!

Can I make this dish spicy?
Oh, you bet! If you like heat, add diced jalapeños to the creamy sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top before serving. You can really play around with the spice levels to make it just right for your taste!

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
To make a vegan version, you can substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives. For the cheese, look for a vegan cheese that crumbles well, or simply skip it altogether for a delicious, dairy-free version!

Hopefully, these FAQs help you feel more confident about making your Mexican Street Corn! If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy grilling!

Serving Suggestions

Once you’ve got that delicious Mexican Street Corn on your table, you’ll want to think about what to serve alongside it! Trust me, it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes and drinks that will make your meal truly unforgettable.

Grilled Meats: Think juicy burgers, tender chicken, or even spicy chorizo. The smoky flavors from the grill complement the sweetness of the corn perfectly!
Tacos: Serve your elote with a side of soft or hard-shell tacos filled with your favorite ingredients. Whether it’s carne asada, fish, or veggies, it’s a match made in taco heaven!
Salads: A light, refreshing salad is a great balance to the richness of the corn. Try a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette or a zesty corn and avocado salad for a delightful combo.
Chips and Salsa: Don’t forget the classic! A bowl of crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa or guacamole is always a hit. It adds that perfect crunch and extra flavor.
Rice Dishes: Fluffy cilantro-lime rice or a flavorful Mexican rice can round out your meal beautifully, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Refreshing Drinks: Pair your meal with a nice cold cerveza, like a light Mexican lager, or a refreshing agua fresca made with fresh fruit. A classic margarita or a tangy limeade also works wonders!

With these serving suggestions, your Mexican Street Corn will shine brightly alongside a spread that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and sip of your delicious feast!