Mexican Street Corn in a Cup: Creamy, Spicy & Delicious!
Take all the bold flavors of classic elote (Mexican street corn) and serve them in an easy-to-enjoy cup! This creamy, spicy, tangy treat is loaded with cotija cheese, chili powder, and a hint of lime for a quick and irresistible snack or side dish. Perfect for parties, cookouts, or simply satisfying your cravings!
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 4 cups cooked corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sour cream or Mexican crema
- ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as a substitute)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime (plus lime wedges for serving)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Corn:
- Fresh Corn: Boil or grill 4 ears of corn, then cut the kernels off the cob.
- Frozen Corn: Microwave or sauté until heated through.
- Canned Corn: Drain and rinse, then warm in a skillet.
- Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or crema), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a creamy dressing. - Combine Corn with Dressing:
Add the warm corn to the dressing and mix until the kernels are evenly coated. - Assemble in Cups:
Divide the dressed corn into individual cups. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of cotija cheese, chili powder, and smoked paprika (if using). - Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime if desired. Serve immediately while warm or at room temperature.
Variations
- Add Heat: Drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with cayenne for an extra kick.
- Make it a Meal: Add diced grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier option.
- Swap Cheeses: Use Parmesan or sharp cheddar if cotija isn’t available.
This Mexican Street Corn in a Cup is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—easy to make and bursting with flavor in every bite. Serve it as a side dish or a snack, and get ready for everyone to ask for seconds
Mexican Street Corn in a Cup: Creamy, Spicy & Delicious!
Imagine the smoky, tangy, creamy flavors of classic Mexican street corn (elote) transformed into a convenient and irresistible cup! This vibrant dish brings together the sweetness of corn with the zestiness of lime, the creaminess of mayo and crema, and the bold kick of chili powder. Perfect for backyard barbecues, quick snacks, or family gatherings, it’s easy to make and packed with layers of flavor that will leave you craving more.
This recipe works beautifully with any type of corn—grilled for that authentic charred flavor, boiled for a classic take, or even sautéed straight from the freezer for convenience. The corn is then tossed with a luscious blend of mayonnaise and sour cream (or Mexican crema), which not only adds richness but also acts as a binder for all the toppings. Crumbled cotija cheese brings a slightly salty, tangy edge, while chili powder and smoked paprika add depth and spice. Lime juice ties everything together with a bright, citrusy punch.
Presentation is key, and serving the dish in cups makes it not only visually appealing but also practical for gatherings. Each portion is topped with more cotija, a sprinkle of chili powder, and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. For those who love a little extra heat, a dash of hot sauce or cayenne can elevate the experience further. Customize your cup with add-ins like diced avocado, bacon bits, or even a drizzle of garlic butter for a twist on tradition.
This Mexican Street Corn in a Cup is more than a dish—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and textures that delight the senses. It’s versatile enough to be a side dish, appetizer, or snack, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or simply a cold drink on a warm day. Easy to make, customizable, and always a hit, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.