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| Mexican street corn (elote) made in just 15 minutes, featuring creamy chili-lime flavor and our blue air fryer Fryoid mascot. |
Mexican Street Corn Recipe (Authentic Elote in 15 Minutes)
Mexican street corn, also known as elote, is grilled corn on the cob coated in a creamy sauce and topped with chili powder, lime juice, and Cotija cheese. This Mexican street corn recipe delivers authentic street-vendor flavor using simple ingredients and can be made on a grill, in the oven, or in an air fryer.
What Is Mexican Street Corn?
Mexican street corn is a traditional Mexican street food made with grilled corn slathered in mayonnaise and Mexican crema, then finished with chili powder, lime, and crumbled Cotija cheese. It is commonly sold by street vendors throughout Mexico and is known for its bold, creamy, smoky flavor.
Mexican Street Corn Recipe (Quick Answer)
To make Mexican street corn:
- Grill corn until lightly charred
- Mix mayonnaise and Mexican crema
- Brush sauce onto hot corn
- Top with Cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice
Total time: 15 minutes
Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Recipe
Main Ingredients
- Fresh corn on the cob
- Mayonnaise
- Mexican crema or sour cream
- Cotija cheese
- Lime juice
- Chili powder or Tajín seasoning
- Salt (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Fresh cilantro
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How to Make Mexican Street Corn (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Grill the Corn
Heat grill to medium-high. Grill corn for 8–12 minutes, turning until evenly charred.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Mix mayonnaise and Mexican crema until smooth.
Step 3: Coat the Corn
Brush sauce generously onto hot corn.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Sprinkle with Cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh lime juice. Serve immediately.
Mexican Street Corn Without a Grill
Oven Method
- Roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes
- Broil 2–3 minutes for char
Air Fryer Method
- Air fry at 380°F for 10–12 minutes
- Turn halfway through
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What Cheese Is Used on Mexican Street Corn?
Traditional Mexican street corn uses Cotija cheese, a salty, crumbly Mexican cheese.
Best substitutes include feta cheese or finely grated Parmesan.
Is Mexican Street Corn Spicy?
Mexican street corn is mildly spicy. Heat level depends on the amount of chili powder or seasoning used and can be adjusted to taste.
Is Mexican Street Corn Gluten-Free?
Yes. Mexican street corn is naturally gluten-free, as it contains corn, dairy, and spices with no wheat-based ingredients.
Mexican Street Corn vs Esquites
- Mexican street corn (elote): Served on the cob
- Esquites: Corn cut off the cob and served in a cup
Both use the same creamy sauce and toppings.
What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn pairs well with:
Storage & Reheating
- Best eaten fresh
- Store leftovers off the cob up to 2 days
- Reheat gently and add fresh lime before serving
Why This Mexican Street Corn Recipe Ranks
This Mexican street corn recipe:
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Final Answer (Snippet-Optimized)
Mexican street corn is grilled corn coated in a creamy sauce made with mayonnaise and crema, then topped with chili powder, lime juice, and Cotija cheese. It’s a popular Mexican street food known for its bold, smoky, and creamy flavor.
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