Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elote, is a popular street food in Mexico that’s bursting with flavor. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered in a creamy, tangy sauce made from mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder, then sprinkled with crumbled cheese and fresh cilantro. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, summer cookouts, or even as a snack. This easy Mexican Street Corn recipe brings those authentic flavors to your home with just a few simple ingredients.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make Easy Mexican Street Corn and share tips for customizing the recipe to suit your tastes.
Why You’ll Love Mexican Street Corn
- Bold Flavors: The combination of smoky grilled corn, tangy lime, creamy sauce, and spicy chili powder creates a flavor explosion.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a last-minute side dish or snack.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients to adjust the level of heat or add your favorite toppings.
Ingredients for Easy Mexican Street Corn
To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Corn on the Cob: 4 ears, husked
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup (for the creamy base)
- Sour Cream or Mexican Crema: 1/4 cup
- Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed
- Cotija Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled (or feta as a substitute)
- Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Fresh Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Butter (Optional): For brushing the corn after grilling
Ingredient Notes
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn is best, but you can use frozen or canned corn in a pinch. For frozen or canned corn, grill it quickly to get that charred, smoky flavor.
- Cotija Cheese: Cotija is a salty, crumbly Mexican cheese. If you can’t find it, feta cheese works as a great substitute.
- Chili Powder: Use as much or as little chili powder as you like. If you prefer a spicier version, you can also add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
How to Make Easy Mexican Street Corn
Step 1: Grill the Corn
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or even broil the corn in the oven.
- Grill the Corn: Place the husked corn directly on the grill grates. Turn the corn occasionally, grilling until it’s charred and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. If you’re using a grill pan, follow the same steps, turning the corn to ensure even charring.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the corn is grilling, prepare the sauce:
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Mexican crema), lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creates the creamy base for the street corn.
- Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer more tang, add a bit more lime juice.
Step 3: Assemble the Corn
- Brush the Corn: Once the corn is nicely charred, remove it from the grill and brush it with a little butter (optional) for extra flavor.
- Slather the Sauce: Using a spoon or brush, generously coat each ear of corn with the prepared sauce. Make sure to cover the entire cob for full flavor.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle the Cheese: After coating the corn in the sauce, sprinkle each ear with crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta if you’re using a substitute).
- Add Chili Powder: Dust each ear with chili powder for a bit of heat. If you like it extra spicy, you can add more or use cayenne pepper.
- Garnish with Cilantro: Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Mexican Street Corn hot, with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. The lime adds a bright, tangy finish that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce.
Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn
- Grill the Corn for Extra Flavor: Charring the corn on the grill gives it a smoky flavor that’s key to authentic Mexican street corn. If you don’t have a grill, broiling the corn in the oven works well too.
- Use Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds a tangy brightness that enhances the flavor of the corn and the sauce.
- Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: The Cotija cheese (or feta) adds a salty, savory element that balances the creaminess of the sauce. Be generous with it!
Variations of Mexican Street Corn
Spicy Mexican Street Corn
- Add more heat: If you like your food spicy, sprinkle extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even drizzle hot sauce over the corn after you add the sauce.
- Use pepper jack cheese: For a spicier cheese option, you can grate some pepper jack cheese over the corn instead of Cotija.
Sweet and Spicy Mexican Street Corn
- Honey drizzle: For a sweet and spicy twist, drizzle a bit of honey over the corn before adding the chili powder. The sweetness of the honey contrasts beautifully with the heat from the chili powder.
Street Corn Off the Cob
- Corn Salad: If you prefer to serve the dish in a bowl, cut the kernels off the cob after grilling and mix them with the sauce, cheese, and toppings. This makes a great side dish that’s easier to eat with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican Street Corn is a versatile dish that can be served on its own or as a side dish. Here are a few ideas to pair with it:
- Tacos: Pair your elote with carne asada or grilled chicken tacos for a Mexican-inspired meal.
- Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a flavorful summer barbecue.
- Salads: Add a light side salad with fresh greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Mexican street corn ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy Mexican street corn fresh off the grill, you can prepare it ahead of time. Grill the corn and keep it warm, then assemble with the sauce and toppings just before serving.
What can I use instead of Cotija cheese?
If you can’t find Cotija cheese, feta is a great substitute. Parmesan cheese can also work in a pinch, but it won’t provide the same crumbly texture.
Can I use frozen or canned corn?
Yes! If you don’t have access to fresh corn on the cob, you can use frozen or canned corn. Just grill or broil it quickly to get a bit of char and follow the same steps to coat it with the sauce and toppings.
Is Mexican Street Corn spicy?
It can be! The spice level depends on how much chili powder or cayenne you use. You can adjust the amount to suit your preference.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. For a dairy-free version, you can use a vegan mayo or sour cream, and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Conclusion
Easy Mexican Street Corn is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, tangy, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a simple side dish to serve with tacos, this elote recipe is sure to impress. The best part is how customizable it is—whether you like it mild or spicy, traditional or with a twist, you can make it your own. Grill up some fresh corn and enjoy the flavors of Mexican street food in the comfort of your own home.
If you tried this recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your tips, variations, or any fun additions you made in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it’s too delicious to keep to yourself!