Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Street Corn, or “Elote,” is a beloved street food featuring grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy, tangy, and spicy sauce. Topped with crumbled cheese, chili powder, and fresh cilantro, it’s the ultimate mix of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet. Perfect for cookouts, barbecues, or as a flavorful side dish, this corn is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

corn on the cobmayonnaiseMexican crema or sour creamcotija cheesechili powderlime juicefresh cilantrogarlic powdersaltolive oil or butter (for grilling)

directions

Preheat a grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat.

Brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter and place on the grill.

Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.

In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Mexican crema or sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Once the corn is grilled, remove from heat and slather each cob with the creamy sauce.

Sprinkle generously with crumbled cotija cheese and a dash of chili powder.

Top with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesGrilling time: 10-12 minutesAssembly time: 5 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use Tajín instead of chili powder for a tangy, citrusy kick.

Substitute feta cheese if cotija is unavailable.

Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for deeper flavor.

Serve the corn off the cob in a cup (“esquites”) for easier eating.

Make it vegan by using plant-based mayo and cheese alternatives.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Mexican Street Corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or heat in a skillet until warmed through.Avoid microwaving as it can make the corn rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn on the cob?

Yes, thaw completely before grilling for the best texture and flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the chili powder to taste.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can roast the corn in the oven or use a stovetop grill pan.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can grill the corn in advance, but add the toppings just before serving for freshness.

What is cotija cheese?

Cotija is a crumbly, salty Mexican cheese similar to feta, perfect for sprinkling over dishes.

Can I make it without mayonnaise?

Yes, substitute with all crema or sour cream, or use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Can I use canned corn?

For esquites (off-the-cob version), yes—sauté the kernels in a pan until slightly charred.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add hot sauce?

Absolutely, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce enhance the flavor.

What pairs well with Mexican Street Corn?

It pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a BBQ spread.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn is a vibrant, flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mexican street food with every bite. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a fun side dish, this recipe adds excitement and zest to any meal. Give it a try and bring the bold, irresistible flavors of the street right to your table.