The Best Homemade Mexican Street Corn Recipe

No summer barbecue is complete without this zesty Mexican street corn—grilled to perfection and bursting with bold flavors that demand a second bite.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade Mexican street corn recipe brings the vibrant flavors of your favorite street food right to your kitchen. You’ll love how easy it is to make with simple ingredients that pack a big punch of flavor.

First, the smoky grilled corn pairs perfectly with creamy mayo and tangy lime for a juicy, zesty bite. Second, it’s topped with crumbled cotija cheese, adding a salty, cheesy kick that’s irresistible. Finally, it’s finished with a sprinkle of chili powder, giving it just the right amount of heat to keep you coming back for more.

Recipe

creamy mexican grilled corn

Craving the bold flavors of Mexican street corn? This homemade recipe brings the authentic taste of elote right to your kitchen. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a flavorful side dish, it’s simple to make and packed with deliciousness.

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
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions:

  1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  2. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until charred in spots and tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sour cream (or Mexican crema).
  4. Brush the grilled corn with the mayonnaise mixture.
  5. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese generously over the corn.
  6. Dust with chili powder and garnish with chopped cilantro.
  7. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the corn.

Notes:

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili powder.

Equipment:

Grill or grill pan, small bowl, brush

Time:

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Cuisine:

Mexican

Serving:

Serves 4

Nutrition

This delicious Mexican street corn is packed with flavor and nutrients. Here’s the breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories220 kcal
Total Fat12 g
Saturated Fat4 g
Cholesterol20 mg
Sodium350 mg
Total Carbohydrate25 g
Dietary Fiber3 g
Sugars5 g
Protein6 g

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade Mexican street corn with grilled chicken skewers, as they add a smoky flavor that complements the corn perfectly. You can’t go wrong with a side of classic guacamole dip, either, since its creamy texture balances the dish so well. Together, they make a meal that’s fresh, flavorful, and totally satisfying.

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Nothing beats the smoky, juicy flavor of grilled chicken skewers, especially when they’re paired with the right sides to make the meal pop. I love marinating the chicken in a mix of lime juice, garlic, and spices for that extra zing, then grilling them until they’re slightly charred and tender. They’re perfect alongside Mexican street corn because the flavors complement each other so well. Add some warm tortillas or a light salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a go-to dish for me when I want something fresh yet hearty.

Classic Guacamole Dip

Although guacamole might seem simple, it’s one of those dishes that can totally steal the show at any gathering. I love how creamy avocados blend with lime, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño for that perfect kick. Mash the avocados just enough—leave some chunks for texture. Toss in diced tomatoes, onions, and a pinch of salt, and you’ve got a dip that’s fresh, vibrant, and downright addictive. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips, or slather it on tacos for extra flavor. Trust me, once you try homemade guacamole, you’ll never go back to store-bought. It’s that good.

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