Authentic Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Introduction
Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is one of those dishes that feels like summer on a stick. Imagine juicy, roasted corn slathered with creamy garlic mayo, rolled in crumbly Cotija cheese, sprinkled with smoky chili powder, and finished with a burst of fresh lime. It’s sweet, smoky, creamy, tangy — all in one bite. Traditionally sold by street vendors across Mexico, Elote is a beloved snack during festivals, barbecues, and family gatherings. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a fun appetizer, this corn always steals the show.
Pro Tip
Use fresh, sweet corn whenever possible. Fresh corn makes a huge difference in flavor and texture. If you can, buy it still in the husk—it helps keep the corn tender as it roasts.
Serving Suggestions
- Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or ribs for the ultimate summer cookout.
- Taco Night: Pair with tacos or fajitas to add bold flavor and fun variety to your spread.
- Party Snack: Cut the ears in half and serve them as finger food at gatherings or BBQs.
Variations
- Grilled Elote: For a smoky flavor, grill the corn instead of baking it, turning occasionally until charred.
- Cheese Swap: Use crumbled feta or Parmesan if Cotija isn’t available.
- Make It Spicier: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Elote Salad: Cut the corn off the cob and toss with the toppings for a delicious corn salad version.
Equipment Needed
- Oven or Grill: For cooking the corn to juicy perfection.
- Small Mixing Bowl: To mix the garlic mayo coating.
- Pastry Brush or Spoon: Helps spread the mayo evenly over the corn.
- Tongs or Gloves: Useful for handling hot corn safely.
- Serving Platter: Makes it easy to dress and serve all the corn at once.
Tips for Success
- Keep the Husks On: Baking corn in the husks traps moisture and gives a tender result.
- Use Warm Corn: The toppings stick best when the corn is hot from the oven or grill.
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Generously roll the corn in Cotija for the best flavor in every bite.
- Fresh Lime Is Key: Bottled lime juice doesn’t have the same bright, fresh punch.
- Make It a Bar: Set out all toppings separately and let guests build their own custom street corn.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s fun, bold, and satisfying. This recipe takes just a handful of ingredients and transforms them into something unforgettable. Perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or even weeknight meals when you want something exciting. And honestly — once you try it, you’ll find excuses to make it again.
Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 6 ears fresh sweet corn
- 6 tablespoons mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
- 6 tablespoons fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 2 limes, quartered
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the corn, in their husks, directly on the oven rack.
- Bake Corn: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the corn is fork-tender.
- Prepare the Garlic Mayo: While the corn bakes, mix the mayonnaise and garlic powder in a small bowl.
- Assemble the Elote: Carefully peel back the husks (or remove them entirely). Brush each ear of corn generously with the garlic mayo.
- Add Toppings: Roll each corn cob in crumbled Cotija cheese. Sprinkle with cilantro and chipotle chili powder.
- Finish with Lime: Serve with lime wedges for squeezing just before eating. Enjoy hot!
Nutrition Table (Per Ear, Estimated)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 240 | 7g | 20g | 16g | 2g | 4g | 350mg |
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh?
Fresh is best, but you can use frozen corn on the cob if thawed first. For canned, try making an elote salad version instead.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftover corn in foil and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can bake or grill the corn ahead of time, but add the mayo, cheese, and toppings just before serving for best texture.
4. What if I can’t find Cotija cheese?
Feta cheese or finely grated Parmesan works well as a substitute.
5. Can I freeze this corn?
It’s not recommended. The texture of mayo and cheese doesn’t hold up well after freezing.
