Name: Mexican Street Corn Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 (15.25-ounce) cans corn, drained; 2 tablespoons butter; Kosher salt, to taste; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1-2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 teaspoons chili powder, divided; Cotija cheese, for sprinkling; Cilantro, roughly chopped, for garnish

This Mexican Street Corn recipe brings the vibrant flavors of elote right to your kitchen! Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of charred corn, creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, and salty cotija cheese all in one delicious dish. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a summer barbecue, a potluck, or a fun weeknight side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Flavors: This recipe captures the essence of classic Mexican street corn with its perfect balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy flavors. It’s a delicious way to enjoy this popular street food at home.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly simple to make with just a few pantry staples and minimal cooking time. It’s ready in just 13 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute side dish or snack.
Versatile: While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to your liking. Add more or less chili powder to adjust the heat, use different types of cheese, or even add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra tanginess.

Ingredients

Canned corn: Drained canned corn makes this recipe quick and easy. You can also use fresh or frozen corn if you prefer.
Butter: Adds richness and enhances the flavor of the corn.
Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness.
Lime juice: Adds a tangy and zesty flavor that complements the corn.
Chili powder: Adds a smoky and spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your liking.
Cotija cheese: A traditional Mexican cheese that adds a salty and slightly tangy flavor. You can substitute with feta cheese if needed.
Cilantro: Roughly chopped cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn

Step 1: Char the Corn

Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat. Add the drained corn to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred and tender.

Step 2: Add Butter and Salt

Remove the skillet from the heat and add the butter and salt to the corn. Stir until the butter is melted and the corn is well coated.

Step 3: Mix in Mayonnaise and Seasonings

Transfer the corn to a serving bowl.
Stir in the mayonnaise, lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder until well combined.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the corn with cotija cheese, the remaining chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Corn: If you have access to fresh corn, grilling or roasting the corn on the cob before cutting off the kernels will add an extra layer of smoky flavor.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder. For a spicier kick, add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Customize the Cheese: While cotija cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as feta cheese, queso fresco, or even grated Parmesan cheese.
Add a Squeeze of Lime: For an extra burst of freshness, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the corn before serving.

How to Serve

This Mexican Street Corn is delicious on its own as a side dish or a snack. You can also serve it as:

A topping for tacos or tostadas: Add a scoop of this flavorful corn to your favorite tacos or tostadas for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
A side for grilled meats or fish: The sweetness and spice of the corn complement grilled proteins beautifully.
A party appetizer: Serve it in small bowls or cups for a fun and easy appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mexican Street Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

While this dish is best served warm and fresh, you can reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Simply cook it according to the package directions before proceeding with the recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can use vegan mayonnaise and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative to make this recipe vegan.

3. Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients, such as chopped red onion, diced bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of Tajin seasoning.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make this recipe spicier, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use a hotter variety of chili powder or add diced jalapeños or other chili peppers to the corn while cooking.