What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Mexican corn recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for your next meal or snack. You’ll love how it brings the taste of street food right into your kitchen. The creamy mix of mayonnaise and sour cream adds richness, while the chili powder and lime juice give it a tangy kick. Fresh cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese bring freshness and a salty bite. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy it anytime!
Recipe
Mexican street corn, or elote, is a beloved snack that combines smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors in every bite. This homemade version brings the authentic taste of street vendors to your kitchen with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husks removed
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill corn, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides (about 10 minutes).
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and sour cream.
- Brush the grilled corn with the mayo-cream mixture.
- Sprinkle generously with cotija cheese, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Notes:
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- If cotija is unavailable, feta cheese makes a good substitute.
Equipment:
- Grill or stovetop grill pan
- Basting brush
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
This homemade Mexican corn recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Vitamin C | 12% DV |
| Calcium | 8% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
What To Serve With It
Wondering what to pair with your homemade Mexican corn? I love serving it with grilled meats like carne asada or juicy chicken—it balances the smoky, tangy flavors perfectly. For drinks, a cold horchata or a light beer keeps things invigorating, and don’t forget some warm tortillas on the side for scooping up every last bite!
Side Dishes
When you’re serving up homemade Mexican corn, you’ll want sides that balance its smoky, tangy flavors without stealing the spotlight. I love pairing it with simple grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers—they add freshness without competing. A crisp green salad with lime dressing works wonders, too. For something heartier, I’ll toss together a bean salad or serve warm tortillas on the side. Sometimes, I’ll even make cilantro-lime rice to soak up all those delicious flavors. These sides complement the corn perfectly, keeping the meal light yet satisfying. Trust me, you’ll find the right balance to make every bite count!
Drinks Pairings
If you’re looking to elevate your homemade Mexican corn, choosing the right drink can make all the difference. I love pairing it with a chilled horchata—its creamy cinnamon sweetness balances the smoky, spicy flavors perfectly. For something fizzy, a lime Jarritos or cold Mexican beer cuts through the richness. If you prefer non-alcoholic, agua fresca with cucumber or watermelon keeps things light and invigorating. And if you’re feeling fancy, a margarita with a spicy rim complements the corn’s zest. Trust me, the right sip turns each bite into a mini fiesta. Experiment and find your favorite combo—it’s half the fun!
