Mexican Street Corn Recipe – Bold, Creamy, and Perfect for Summer

My First Bite of Elote

I still remember the first time I tasted elote—it was a warm summer afternoon at a bustling street market in Mexico City. The smoky aroma of grilled corn mingled with zesty lime and creamy cheese as vendors dressed each cob with flair and love. One bite, and I was hooked: juicy, charred corn dripping in creamy sauce, salty cotija cheese crumbles, a spicy sprinkle of chili, and a bright squeeze of lime. Heaven.

Since then, this authentic Mexican street corn has become my go-to dish for backyard BBQs, potlucks, and even Tuesday taco nights. It’s bold, festive, and oh-so-easy to whip up. If you’re ready to take your corn game to the next level, grab your grill (or oven, or air fryer—we’re flexible) and let’s get cooking.

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What Is Mexican Street Corn (Elote)?

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a beloved staple of Mexican street food culture, especially in the summer months when fresh corn is abundant. Traditionally served on the cob, it’s charred on an open flame, then generously slathered with a creamy blend of mayonnaise and sour cream, sprinkled with crumbled cotija cheese, a dash of chili powder, and finished with a splash of lime juice and chopped cilantro.

You’ll often find this dish sold by street vendors at festivals or late-night food stalls. And while it’s often served whole, a spoon-friendly variation called esquites—or Mexican street corn salad—offers the same big flavors in a bowl.

Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just dipping your toes into Latin American recipes, Elote is the gateway snack to authentic Mexican cuisine.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is delightfully simple and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Base:

• 4 ears of corn on the cob (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)

Sauce & Toppings:

• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream (or Mexican crema)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as a sub)
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional garnish)
• Lime wedges (to serve)

How to Make Authentic Mexican Street Corn

Ready to get messy in the best way? Here’s how to bring this street food corn recipe to life:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Grill the Corn
   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush each ear with melted butter and grill, turning occasionally, until slightly charred and tender (8–10 minutes).
   (Alternative: roast in the oven at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.)
2. Make the Sauce
   In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
3. Assemble the Elote
   Remove the corn from heat and slather each cob with the creamy sauce.
4. Top It Off
   Sprinkle generously with cotija cheese, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Garnish with cilantro and an extra lime squeeze.
5. Serve Immediately
   Serve warm with lime wedges. Get ready for those “mmm” sounds around the table.

Tips, Tricks & Delicious Variations

Tips for the Best Elote:

• Char is Key: That smoky flavor is what sets Elote apart—don’t skip the grill if you can help it.
• Cotija Cheese Rules: But if you can’t find it, feta or Parmesan works beautifully.
• Turn Up the Heat: Add Tajín, cayenne, or even hot sauce if you’re feeling spicy.

Flavorful Variations:

• Vegan Elote: Use plant-based mayo and vegan feta or nutritional yeast.
• Esquites (Elote Salad): Cut kernels off the cob and mix all ingredients in a bowl. It’s picnic-perfect and easy to serve!
• Frozen Corn Hack: Sauté thawed kernels in a skillet until toasty and follow the same steps.
• Oven-Roasted or Air Fryer Corn: Ideal for weeknights when firing up the grill isn’t in the cards.

Pair it with our Birria tacos made easy or go lighter with our veggie-packed Zucchini lasagna recipe.

Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220
Protein	5g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	2g

Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.

FAQs: Let’s Clear the Corn-fusion

Final Thoughts

Elote is one of those rare dishes that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. Whether you’re grilling out with friends or just want to shake up your veggie side dish game, this easy Mexican street corn recipe brings sunshine to your plate.

So, fire up the grill and let this bold, creamy, zesty cob steal the show.
And if you’re sipping something cool while you’re at it, might I suggest this refreshing watermelon lemonade?

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