Craving that irresistible taste of authentic Mexican street corn? Look no further! This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Elote, the beloved Mexican street food, right to your kitchen. We’re talking about a cheesy, spicy, and utterly delicious corn dish that’s perfect as a side, a snack, or even a star ingredient in your next taco night. Inspired by the famous Torchy’s Tacos version, this Recipe For Street Corn is guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Close up image of Mexican street corn topped with cotija and cilantro.
Have you ever had the pleasure of visiting Torchy’s Tacos? For those in the know, it’s a taco haven, but for many, it remains a hidden gem, geographically limited to a few states. That’s a real shame because beyond their incredible tacos, Torchy’s boasts some seriously addictive sides. Among these, their Mexican street corn stands out, a creamy, flavorful revelation that keeps people coming back for more. While we’re still working on perfecting a copycat queso recipe, today we’re thrilled to share our take on their iconic street corn.
Sometimes you’ll find street corn served on the cob, proudly presented on a skewer and called “elote.” While that’s a fantastic experience, our recipe focuses on Mexican corn off the cob. Why? Because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and just as bursting with flavor! This method allows for maximum flavor distribution and makes it simpler to serve and enjoy.
Corn kernels piled in a cast iron skillet.
How to Make Authentic Mexican Street Corn at Home
This recipe for street corn is all about capturing that authentic Mexican flavor with minimal fuss. Get ready for a side dish that will steal the show!
SIMPLE STEPS, BIG FLAVOR. Making this delicious side is easier than you think. We start by heating up the corn in a skillet to bring out its natural sweetness. Then comes the magic: a blend of creamy mayonnaise, zesty lime juice, and a kick of chili powder. The final touch? A generous sprinkle of salty cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.
COOKING THE CORN. Begin by heating a large skillet over high heat. Add your corn – whether you’re using canned, frozen, or fresh (kernels cut from the cob) – and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial as it slightly chars the corn, adding a depth of flavor that mimics the traditional grilling method used for Elote.
SEASONING TO PERFECTION. Once the corn is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in butter and salt while the corn is still hot, allowing the butter to melt and coat every kernel. Transfer the corn to a mixing bowl and add mayonnaise and lime juice. This is where the creamy tanginess of street corn begins to develop. Next, add 1 teaspoon of chili powder and mix everything thoroughly. This spice adds warmth and a signature smoky note.
THE FINISHING TOUCH. To serve, sprinkle your Mexican street corn generously with cotija cheese, another dash of chili powder, and freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately to enjoy it warm and cheesy!
Corn Salad with mayonnaise on top in glass bowl.
Tips for the Best Recipe for Street Corn
Want to take your street corn from great to absolutely unforgettable? Here are a few pro tips:
FRESH, FROZEN, OR CANNED? This recipe is versatile! You can use canned corn for convenience, frozen corn (thawed), or fresh corn kernels cut from the cob. For the freshest flavor, especially during corn season, using fresh corn is highly recommended. If using fresh corn on the cob, grilling it before cutting off the kernels will add an extra layer of smoky char that elevates the dish. Simply brush the husked corn with vegetable oil and grill over high heat, turning every few minutes, until slightly charred on all sides.
INGREDIENT SWAPS & CUSTOMIZATIONS. While we aim for a Torchy’s copycat flavor, feel free to adapt this recipe to your taste and pantry.
- Cheese Variations: If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese or parmesan cheese can work as substitutes, though they will alter the flavor profile slightly. Cotija offers a unique salty, crumbly texture that’s characteristic of authentic street corn.
- Herb Alternatives: Not a cilantro fan? Fresh parsley can be used instead, though cilantro provides a more traditional Mexican flavor.
- Creaminess Factor: For variations in creaminess and tang, experiment with Mexican crema, Greek yogurt, avocado mayo, or even a drizzle of olive oil in place of regular mayonnaise. Each will lend a slightly different nuance to the final dish.
- Spice it Up (or Down): Our recipe uses chili powder for a mild spice. Adjust the amount to control the heat. For extra spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño. For a smoky heat, try using smoked paprika in addition to or instead of chili powder.
- Lime Lovers Rejoice: Serve lime wedges on the side for those who like an extra burst of citrusy freshness.
Close up image of Mexican street corn in white bowl.
Serving and Storing Your Street Corn Masterpiece
This recipe for street corn is incredibly versatile. It’s fantastic as a side dish, but also consider these serving ideas:
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Classic Side: Naturally, Mexican street corn is the perfect accompaniment to any Mexican meal. Pair it with tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, or grilled meats. It complements spicy dishes beautifully and adds a creamy, cool contrast.
- Corn Salad Upgrade: Serve it as a vibrant corn salad for potlucks, barbecues, or picnics. Its bold flavors make it stand out from ordinary salads.
- Taco Topping: Take your tacos to the next level by adding a spoonful of this street corn mixture as a topping. It adds creaminess, flavor, and texture.
- Bowl Meal Addition: Incorporate it into grain bowls or burrito bowls for an extra layer of flavor and Mexican flair.
- Warm or Cold: While we think this recipe for street corn is best served warm, it’s also delicious at room temperature or even chilled as a corn salad.
Storing Leftovers:
- Proper Storage: Store any leftover street corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating Tips: Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat, as the mayonnaise can separate slightly. Adding a tiny splash of milk or lime juice can help restore the creamy consistency upon reheating.
Mexican street corn recipe off the cob in a white bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions about Recipe for Street Corn
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe for street corn?
Absolutely! If using frozen corn, thaw it before cooking. You may need to cook it for a few extra minutes in the skillet to ensure it’s heated through. Frozen corn is a convenient and readily available option that works wonderfully in this recipe.
Is Mexican street corn spicy?
As written, this recipe for street corn has a mild level of spice from the chili powder. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference. Reduce the amount of chili powder for a milder flavor, or increase it (or add other spices like cayenne pepper) if you prefer a spicier kick.
Get ready to enjoy the taste of authentic Mexican street food with this easy and delicious recipe for street corn!
