Nothing says summer in the streets of Mexico quite like the irresistible aroma of Mexican Street Corn Recipe, or Elote, sizzling on an open grill. This beloved street food combines tender, smoky corn with a creamy, tangy, and spicy sauce, sprinkled with crumbly cotija cheese. Perfect for backyard parties, family dinners, or a quick snack, this Grilled Mexican Street Corn Recipe brings authentic flavor straight to your kitchen.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Imagine biting into a juicy, charred ear of corn, the tang of lime awakening your taste buds, and the richness of mayonnaise and cheese creating the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious foodie, this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Recipe guarantees unforgettable flavor with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Recipe
Bursting with Flavor: Sweet corn meets tangy lime, savory cotija cheese, and a hint of smoky chili powder.
Quick & Easy: Grill, sauce, and serve in under 20 minutes.
Budget-Friendly: Fresh corn and pantry staples make this an affordable yet gourmet snack.
Customizable Heat: Adjust chili powder for mild, medium, or fiery street-style corn.
Perfect for Parties: Individual ears are easy to serve at BBQs or summer gatherings.
Kid-Friendly Option: Omit the chili powder for a creamy, cheesy delight children love.
Healthy-ish Treat: Corn is naturally sweet and high in fiber; sauces are rich but can be lightened.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
4 ears of fresh corn, husked
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving
Substitutions & Tips:
Cheese: Feta can replace cotija if unavailable, but cotija gives the signature tang.
Creaminess: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter version.
Spice Level: Adjust chili powder or smoked paprika to control heat.
Cilantro: Parsley is a mild alternative if you dislike cilantro.
Grill Option: Can be roasted in the oven at 400°F for 20–25 minutes if a grill isn’t available.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Mexican Street Corn Recipe
1. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Proper preheating ensures even cooking and a smoky char that enhances the flavor.
2. Prepare the Corn
Brush each ear of corn with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and help the kernels brown evenly. The oil also adds subtle richness that enhances the roasted flavor.
3. Grill the Corn
Place corn on the grill and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally. Look for golden-brown kernels and slightly charred spots, signaling perfect sweetness and smokiness.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. This sauce balances creamy, tangy, and spicy notes for that classic Street-Style Corn Mexican Recipe flavor.
5. Apply the Sauce
Brush each hot ear of corn generously with the creamy mixture. The warm corn absorbs the sauce, creating a luscious coating with every bite.
6. Add Toppings
Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese evenly over the sauced corn, then top with chopped cilantro for freshness. The contrast of textures—creamy sauce and crumbly cheese—is essential.
7. Serve
Serve immediately with lime wedges for an extra burst of zest. Enjoy your Garlic-Lime Mexican Street Corn Recipe hot off the grill for maximum flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mexican Street Corn Recipe
How do you keep corn from sticking to the grill?
Brush both the corn and the grill grates lightly with oil and preheat the grill properly. Turn frequently to prevent burning.
Can I make this in the oven instead of a grill?
Yes! Roast at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until lightly charred. Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for extra smokiness.
How do I make it less messy for kids?
Cut the corn off the cob and serve in small bowls with the sauce and toppings mixed in. This is also perfect for low-carb or salad-friendly versions.
Best Ways to Serve Mexican Street Corn Recipe
Pair with Grilled Chicken Tacos or Shrimp Fajitas for a full Mexican-inspired feast.
Add to Summer BBQ platters alongside burgers, hot dogs, and fresh salads.
Serve as a side for Creamy Cajun Pasta or Tex-Mex Rice Bowls.
Sprinkle extra cotija cheese and chili powder for a more indulgent experience.
Nutrition per Serving (1 ear)
Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 6g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 250mg
Vitamin C: 15% DV
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container up to 2 days.
Reheating: Microwave or broil for 2–3 minutes; brush with extra sauce to revive creaminess.
Make-Ahead: Prepare sauce and grill corn separately; combine just before serving for maximum freshness.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Replace mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives and use tofu feta instead of cotija cheese.
Q2: Is this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Corn and the traditional toppings are naturally gluten-free.
Q3: Can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne or hot paprika to the sauce. For a smoky flavor, use smoked chipotle powder.
Q4: How do I prevent the corn from drying out?
Brush generously with oil and cook at medium-high heat, turning often to keep kernels juicy.
Variations of Mexican Street Corn Recipe
Cheesy Mexican Street Corn Recipe: Add extra shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar for gooey indulgence.
Roasted Mexican Street Corn Recipe: Oven-roast with butter and smoked paprika for a hassle-free alternative.
Garlic-Lime Mexican Street Corn Recipe: Intensify garlic flavor with roasted garlic paste.
Spicy Mexican Street Corn Recipe: Add jalapeño slices or hot sauce for extra heat.
Authentic Mexican Street Corn Recipe: Use fresh cotija, lime juice, and fresh chili powder for traditional taste.
Conclusion
Your Mexican Street Corn Recipe is more than just a side—it’s an experience, bursting with flavor, color, and texture. From backyard grills to weeknight dinners, this recipe brings the heart of Mexico right to your plate. Grab some friends, fire up the grill, and let the irresistible aroma of Elote – Mexican Street Corn Recipe ignite your senses.