The Best Mexican Street Corn Recipe: 5 Easy Steps for Authentic, Creamy Elote
Introduction
Looking for the perfect Mexican Street Corn Recipe? You’ve landed in the right place.
Mexican street corn, or Elote, is a beloved staple deeply rooted in Mexican culture and cuisine. Whether sold at roadside stands or served during family cookouts, this tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy snack captures the heart of authentic Mexican flavor.
In this post, you’ll discover an easy, step-by-step Mexican Street Corn Recipe, key preparation tips, and delicious variations to make it your own.
What is Mexican Street Corn?
The core of any great Mexican Street Corn Recipe is fire-grilled corn on the cob slathered in a savory blend of:
- Mayonnaise
- Mexican crema
- Lime juice
- Chili powder
- Crumbled cotija cheese
- Chopped cilantro
It’s smoky, tangy, spicy, and cheesy—each bite bursting with bold flavor. While traditional in Mexico, Elote has become a favorite across the U.S., thanks to its vibrant taste and visual appeal.
Ingredients for Classic Mexican Street Corn Recipe
🌽 Main Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Mexican crema (or sour cream)
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ⅓ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- Fresh chopped cilantro
- Salt, to taste
🌶️ Optional Add-Ons
- Hot sauce (like Valentina or Tapatío)
- Tajin seasoning
- Butter (for grilling)
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat. You want enough heat to char the corn without burning it. No grill? A stovetop grill pan or broiler also works.
Step 2: Prep the Corn
Lightly brush each ear with oil or melted butter. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and golden.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine:
- Mayonnaise
- Crema
- Lime juice
- Garlic powder
- Chili powder
Stir into a smooth, creamy dressing.
Step 4: Coat the Corn
Once the corn is grilled, slather each cob with the creamy sauce using a spoon or brush.
Step 5: Top It Off
Sprinkle generously with:
- Crumbled cotija cheese
- Chopped cilantro
Optional: Add hot sauce or Tajin for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Recipe
- Use fresh corn: Fresher corn means sweeter, juicier results.
- Grill it right: That charred, smoky flavor defines traditional Elote.
- Choose the right cheese: Cotija is best, but feta or queso fresco work.
- Serve hot: This dish tastes best straight off the grill.
Mexican Street Corn Recipe Without a Grill
🔥 Stovetop Method
- Use a cast iron skillet or grill pan.
- Lightly oil corn and char evenly on all sides.
- Follow the same dressing and topping steps.
🔥 Oven/Broiler Method
- Preheat the broiler.
- Place corn on a foil-lined baking tray.
- Broil 6 inches from heat for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway.
Mexican Street Corn in a Cup (Esquites Recipe)
Want a different spin on the classic Mexican Street Corn Recipe? Try Esquites—the same great taste in a cup.
Ingredients
- Kernels from 4 ears of grilled/boiled corn
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt
- All dressing/toppings from traditional Elote
Directions
- Sauté corn kernels in butter with salt until golden.
- Mix in the creamy sauce.
- Top with cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro.
- Serve warm in cups.
Healthier Mexican Street Corn Recipe Alternatives
Want to enjoy your favorite Mexican Street Corn Recipe guilt-free?
Try these lighter swaps:
- Greek yogurt instead of mayo or crema
- Light cheese or reduced-fat feta
- Olive oil spray in place of butter
- Boiled or air-fried corn instead of grilled
What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn
Elote pairs beautifully with:
- 🌮 Tacos: Carne asada, fish, or veggie
- 🍖 Grilled meats: BBQ ribs, steak, or chicken
- 🥗 Side dishes: Avocado salad, black bean salad, watermelon salad
- 🍚 Rice: Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice
- 🍹 Drinks: Horchata, agua fresca, or cold beer
Why This Mexican Street Corn Recipe Works
This version balances all the must-have flavor notes: smoky, creamy, tangy, spicy, and salty.
- Quick & easy to prepare
- Uses kitchen-staple ingredients
- Highly customizable for dietary needs
- Works great for gatherings and meal prep
Fun Variations to the Mexican Street Corn Recipe
- Cheesy Parmesan Elote – swap cotija with Parmesan
- Sweet Corn Elote – add a touch of sugar to the mix
- Bacon Elote – top with crispy bacon
- Vegan Elote – use vegan mayo, cream, and nutritional yeast
- Spicy Elote – mix in jalapeños or chipotle aioli
FAQs – Mexican Street Corn Recipe
❓ Can I prepare Mexican street corn ahead of time?
Yes, grill it in advance and store in the fridge. Dress and reheat before serving.
❓ Is cotija necessary for the recipe?
Cotija is traditional, but queso fresco or feta work too.
❓ Can I use canned corn?
Yes, for Esquites. For on-the-cob versions, fresh corn is best.
❓ How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
With this foolproof Mexican Street Corn Recipe, you can now recreate a true street-food classic right in your home kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, planning a festive meal, or just in the mood for something bold and savory, Elote is the ultimate flavor-packed side dish. Try the classic or one of the tasty variations—and enjoy every bite.
Whether you’re a home cook exploring new flavors or a seasoned foodie, this Mexican Street Corn Recipe is a must-try. Its versatility means you can serve it as a side, snack, or even a crowd-pleasing party dish. You don’t need fancy tools—just fresh ingredients and a bit of creativity to bring this Mexican street food favorite to life.
So next time you’re firing up the grill or planning your weekly menu, don’t forget to include this iconic Mexican Street Corn Recipe. It’s vibrant, bold, and always a hit—making it the perfect way to bring authentic Latin flavor to your table, any day of the week.
Whether you’re a home cook exploring new flavors or a seasoned foodie, this Mexican Street Corn Recipe is a must-try. Its versatility means you can serve it as a side, snack, or even a crowd-pleasing party dish. You don’t need fancy tools—just fresh ingredients and a bit of creativity to bring this Mexican street food favorite to life.
So next time you’re firing up the grill or planning your weekly menu, don’t forget to include this iconic Mexican Street Corn Recipe. It’s vibrant, bold, and always a hit—making it the perfect way to bring authentic Latin flavor to your table, any day of the week.
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