Can I make Mexican Corn on the Cob without a grill?

Yes. If you don't have access to a grill, you can cook the corn using an air fryer, oven, grill pan, or stovetop skillet. While grilling provides the signature smoky flavor, these alternative cooking methods still produce delicious Mexican Corn on the Cob with excellent texture and flavor.

What is the difference between Mexican Corn on the Cob and elote?

Mexican Corn on the Cob is commonly referred to as elote. The term "elote" is the traditional Mexican name for corn on the cob served with a creamy sauce, Cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili seasoning. In many recipes, the two names are used interchangeably.

Can I prepare Mexican Corn on the Cob ahead of time?

Yes. You can grill the corn and prepare the sauce several hours in advance. For the freshest flavor and texture, wait to add the creamy topping, cheese, lime juice, and seasonings until just before serving. This prevents the toppings from becoming soggy.

How long does Mexican Corn on the Cob last in the refrigerator?

Leftover Mexican Corn on the Cob can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving, or remove the kernels and use them in salads, tacos, rice bowls, or wraps for a flavorful leftover meal.

Mexican Corn on the Cob: Easy Street Corn

Name: Mexican Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks and silk removed; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream (or Mexican crema); 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, plus extra for garnish; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 lime, cut into wedges; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Description

Mexican Corn on the Cob is a delicious Mexican street corn-inspired side dish made with grilled sweet corn coated in a creamy mayonnaise and sour cream sauce, then topped with Cotija cheese, chili powder, fresh lime juice, and cilantro. This easy recipe delivers the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, making it ideal for barbecues, cookouts, and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks and silk removed
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream (or Mexican crema)
1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
1/2 teaspoon chili powder, plus extra for garnish
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 lime, cut into wedges
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

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Instructions

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Place the 4 ears of corn directly on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and lightly charred on all sides.
While the corn cooks, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl and mix until smooth.
Remove the grilled corn from the heat and brush each ear evenly with the prepared creamy mixture.
Sprinkle the Cotija cheese evenly over each coated ear of corn.
Season with chili powder and salt to taste.
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately with extra lime wedges and additional chili powder if desired.

Notes

Turn the corn frequently while grilling for even charring and cooking.
For extra heat, add 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
Greek yogurt can replace the mayonnaise and sour cream for a lighter version.
Feta cheese can be substituted for Cotija cheese if unavailable.
The corn can also be cooked in an air fryer before adding the toppings.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For an esquites-style variation, remove the kernels from the cob and mix them with the toppings before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ear of corn
Calories: 257
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 325mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 31mg