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Creamy Mexican Street Corn Cup Recipe

4.5 from 120 reviews

This Creamy Mexican Street Corn Cup recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of Mexican street corn in a convenient, individual serving. Sweet corn kernels are sautéed in butter to achieve a light char, then tossed in a rich, creamy mixture of mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime juice, and spices. Topped with crumbly Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro, these cups make a perfect festive appetizer or side dish bursting with tangy, smoky, and savory notes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or thawed frozen)
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • Salt, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

For Garnish

  • Extra chili powder
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat the Butter: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Ensure the butter is melted without browning to keep a clean flavor base.
  2. Sauté the Corn: Add the corn kernels to the warm skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred and tender, giving it that smoky street corn essence.
  3. Prepare the Creamy Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Mexican crema or sour cream, minced garlic if using, finely chopped jalapeño if using, freshly squeezed lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to create a smooth, flavorful sauce.
  4. Combine Corn and Mixture: Transfer the warm, charred corn into the bowl with the creamy mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat all the kernels evenly with the sauce.
  5. Serve in Cups: Spoon the creamy corn mixture into individual serving cups for a convenient and festive presentation.
  6. Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese, an extra dusting of chili powder, and chopped fresh cilantro over each cup. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added zing.

Notes

  • You can use fresh, grilled, or thawed frozen corn kernels depending on availability.
  • Adjust chili powder and jalapeño quantity to taste for preferred spice level.
  • Mexican crema can be substituted with sour cream if unavailable.
  • This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the warm, creamy texture.
  • To make it vegetarian, ensure the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly.

Keywords: Mexican street corn, elote, creamy corn cups, appetizer, Mexican cuisine, Cotija cheese, chili powder, lime, vegetarian appetizer