Easy Mexican Street Corn: An Authentic Elote Recipe

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I'm so excited to share this Easy Mexican Street Corn recipe with you! I am obsessed with Mexican food and this authentic elote recipe is to-die-for!

Mexican street corn, or elote, is one of the most popular street foods in Mexico and has gained popularity in the United States as well. This delicious and easy recipe offers a taste of authentic Mexican street corn that's perfect for your next Mexican-inspired meal.

Whether you're celebrating Cinco de Mayo, enjoying a summer BBQ, or simply craving a taste of Mexico City, this traditional elote recipe is the perfect side dish to accompany carne asada, tacos, or any other Mexican favorite.

In this blog post, I'll be sharing step-by-step instructions for creating elote, answering some frequently asked questions and sharing tips on how to customize your elote experience with variations and substitutions. I'll also explore the best way to serve elote, whether it's on the cob, as a Mexican street corn salad, or elote en vaso.

This easy street corn recipe makes 4 servings and will take 5-10 minutes of prep time and roughly 5 minutes of cook time.

Mexican Street Corn Ingredients:

4 fresh corn cobs, husk removed
½ cup cotija cheese
1/3 cup Mexican crema (see FAQ for substitutions)
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1 lime, juiced (plus lime wedges for serving)
2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
1 tsp tajin seasoning (or chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn

{Scroll down for a printable recipe card.}

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Boil the corn for about 5 minutes, or until tender. If you prefer, you can grill the corn on high heat for a smoky flavor.

When the corn is cooked, remove it from the pot, and let it cool slightly.

In a small bowl, mix the Mexican crema, mayonnaise, and fresh lime juice. Set aside. If you don't have a lime juicer, I highly recommend this citrus juicer. It's super easy to use.

Chop the cilantro, set aside.

The image shows chopped cilantro with black knife on cutting board.

Place your corn on a plate or cutting board so you can make your elotes.

Brush the creamy sauce over the corn.

Corn on wooden chipping board brushed with Mexican crema with mayonnaise, tajin, cheese and cilantro at the side.

Sprinkle the salty cotija cheese, tajin seasoning, and cilantro over the corn.

Corn on wooden chopping board with toppings of mexican crema, mayonaise, lime and cilantro with chopped cilantro on a small bowl.

Voila! You just made Mexican street corn. Serve and enjoy!

How To Customize Your Mexican Street Corn

I love the vibrant flavors of elote and it's awesome to be able to make it at home in my own kitchen (or on my grill). There are lots of different ways to prepare and serve elote, so you're bound to find your favorite version of this classic Mexican street food.

One of our favorite ways to serve elote is as a Mexican street corn salad. This variation combines the flavors of Mexican street corn with fresh ingredients like green onions, black beans, and avocado. My kids love a little added crunch, so we serve this alongside tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos.

I have a friend whose Mexican street corn salad recipe also incorporates a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. {That's not my jam, but you might find you love it!}

Whether you're using fresh ears of corn or frozen corn, there are plenty of options for customizing the flavor of your Mexican street corn.

For example, you can substitute crumbly Mexican cheese like queso fresco or even Parmesan cheese for the traditional cotija cheese. And if you're looking for a little heat, add a sprinkle of chile powder or chile-lime seasoning, such as Tajín, to your mayonnaise mixture.

FAQs {Frequently Asked Questions}

What is the best way to cook corn for elote?

Boiling or grilling are the most common methods. Boiling is quicker and more accessible, while grilling adds a smoky flavor.

If you prefer your corn cooked on the grill, you can achieve a smoky flavor by cooking the ears of corn over medium-high heat. Preheat your grill and lightly coat the grill grate with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Turn the cobs of corn occasionally until they are nicely charred and tender. You can also use a grill pan if you don't have access to an outdoor grill.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes! Simply thaw the corn and follow the same cooking instructions. Fresh sweet corn is best when in season, but frozen corn can be a convenient option.

I can't find Mexican Crema. What can I use instead?

You can substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with a little bit of lime juice for a similar taste and consistency.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yep. You sure can. While cotija cheese is traditionally used in elotes, queso fresco or crumbled feta cheese also work well.

How can I make elote en vaso (corn in a cup)?

Cut the cooked corn kernels from the cob using a sharp knife, then mix with the creamy sauce, cheese, and seasoning. Serve in a pretty glass or a Styrofoam cup with a spoon and lime wedges.

Can I use this to make a Mexican street corn salad?

Yep! es! Just combine the cooked corn kernels, creamy sauce, cheese, and seasoning in a large bowl. Add diced poblano pepper, red onion, and avocado for extra flavor.

What is tajin seasoning and where do I find it?

Tajín seasoning is a popular Mexican condiment made from a blend of dried and ground red chilies, dehydrated lime, and salt. It has a tangy, mildly spicy, and slightly salty flavor profile, which makes it a versatile seasoning for various dishes.

You should be able to find tajin in the spice aisle of your grocery store. If you don't find it in the spice aisle, consider checking the international food aisle.

What is the best way to store Mexican street corn?

When it comes to storing your leftover elote or Mexican street corn salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the corn in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Do I have to use fresh lime juice?

No, but I highly recommend it! I've linked to a citrus juicer above so you can easily juice your limes.

The best thing about this simple Mexican street corn recipe is its versatility. Whether you're enjoying it straight off the cob, in a pasta salad, or as a skillet Mexican street corn dish, the combination of sweet corn, tangy lime, creamy sauce, and crumbly cheese creates the most delicious thing you'll taste all summer.

So, next time you're in the mood for a taste of Central America or planning a summer dinner with friends and family, remember this authentic elote recipe. The perfect corn dish is just a few steps away, and with so many variations and serving options, there's sure to be something for everyone. Not only will this dish impress your guests, but it will also become a staple at your gatherings for years to come.