Indulging in a freshly made Homemade Mexican Street Corn is like taking a flavorful vacation to the sunny streets of Mexico, where street vendors serve up this irresistible treat. The sweet corn, charred to perfection, is slathered with creamy goodness, tangy lime juice, and a sprinkle of cheese that dances on your taste buds. Trust me, every bite will make you want to shout “¡Olé!” while your taste buds do the cha-cha. For more inspiration, check out this perfect for lunch recipe.

As I recall my first encounter with this delightful dish at a bustling summer fair, I couldn’t help but be drawn in by its intoxicating aroma wafting through the air. The vibrant colors and sizzle of corn on the grill felt like a warm hug for my senses. Now, every time I whip up my own Homemade Mexican Street Corn, it brings back those sun-soaked memories and fills my kitchen with joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor in every bite
- The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any meal
- Ideal for gatherings or casual dinners, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various proteins or serve as a stand-alone snack!
I remember the first time I served Homemade Mexican Street Corn at a backyard barbecue. The reactions were priceless—friends devouring it like it was the last corn on Earth!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.
Fresh Corn on the Cob: Look for plump ears with bright green husks for the sweetest flavor.
Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayonnaise for a creamier texture that blends beautifully with spices.
Chili Powder: A must-have for that signature kick; choose your heat level wisely!
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the flavors; bottled just doesn’t cut it.
Queso Fresco or Cotija Cheese: Opt for crumbly cheese; it adds salty richness that’s simply irresistible.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic punch—perfect for herb lovers!
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these two essentials to elevate all those flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Homemade Mexican Street Corn
Prepare Your Corn: Begin by shucking the fresh corn and removing all silk strands. Rinse them under cold water to ensure they’re clean and ready for grilling.
Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat until hot. Place corn directly onto the grill grates and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until kernels are tender and slightly charred.
Create Your Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with chili powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning according to taste; this sauce is where all the magic happens!
Add Cheese and Cilantro: Once your corn has cooled slightly after grilling, brush each ear generously with your mayo mixture. Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese over top along with chopped cilantro.
Final Touches: Squeeze extra lime juice over each ear of corn for an added zing! Serve immediately while warm—it’s best enjoyed fresh off the grill!
Enjoying Homemade Mexican Street Corn is more than just eating; it’s an experience that brings people together around good food and laughter. So grab your friends or family and get ready for a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- Homemade Mexican Street Corn is a delightful dish bursting with flavor
- The mix of creamy, spicy, and tangy elements creates a fiesta in your mouth
- Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy nights in, this dish will impress friends and family alike
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, grill the corn until it’s charred and tender. While it cools, prepare the sauce for a seamless cooking experience and maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses like feta or add extra spices such as chili powder to make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Homemade Mexican Street Corn, choose fresh corn and high-quality cheese
- Avoid overcooking to prevent tough kernels
- Experiment with toppings like avocado or cilantro for added freshness and flavor
Sharing this recipe reminds me of a summer barbecue where my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. Their smiles were priceless!
FAQ
What is the best type of corn to use for Homemade Mexican Street Corn?
Fresh sweet corn is ideal; it adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
Can I make Homemade Mexican Street Corn ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled until serving.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?
Greek yogurt works well as a healthier alternative while maintaining creaminess.

Homemade Mexican Street Corn
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- Author: Emma
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Homemade Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a vibrant dish that transports you to the lively streets of Mexico with every bite. This delicious recipe features fresh corn grilled to perfection and slathered with a creamy, zesty sauce, topped with crumbly cheese and fresh cilantro. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy gatherings, this easy-to-make treat will wow your guests and leave them craving more.
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Shuck the corn and remove silk strands. Rinse under cold water.
- Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly charred.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, chili powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Brush the mayo mixture generously onto the grilled corn. Sprinkle with cheese and chopped cilantro.
- Squeeze extra lime juice over each ear before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg