Mexican Street Corn Cups

Mexican Street Corn Cups are a delightful snack that brings the vibrant flavors of traditional elote right to your table. This creamy and savory dish is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy night in. The combination of sweet corn, tangy lime, and rich cotija cheese makes it an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy Mexican Street Corn Cups in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The mix of mayo, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder creates a rich and zesty flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or side dish at any gathering; it fits perfectly into any occasion.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or experimenting with different toppings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like corn, cilantro, and lime, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Mexican Street Corn Cups, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet (if charring corn)
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Skillet: Charring the corn enhances its flavor by adding a smoky taste that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients

This quick and creamy elote en vaso is a street-food favorite served in a cup—sweet corn mixed with mayo, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime, and chili, perfect for snacking or as a bold side dish.

For the Corn Mixture

• 4 cups corn kernels frozen, canned, or grilled
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese plus more for topping
• 2 tbsp lime juice about 1 lime
• 1/2 tsp chili powder or to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro optional
• Tajin seasoning for garnish (optional)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Cups

Step 1: Cook the Corn

Start by cooking or heating your corn. If you’re using fresh corn on the cob, grill or char it in a skillet until slightly browned for added flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. The cooked corn.
2. Mayonnaise and sour cream.
3. Lime juice and chili powder.
Mix everything until well combined.

Step 3: Add Cheese

Stir in most of the crumbled cotija cheese until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

Spoon the corn mixture into serving cups. Top each cup with additional cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder or Tajin seasoning, and chopped cilantro if desired.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve your Mexican Street Corn Cups warm with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

These delicious cups are sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy every creamy bite!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Cups

Serving Mexican Street Corn Cups is a delightful way to enjoy this tasty treat. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a snack, these cups can be customized for everyone’s tastes.

Casual Gathering

• Individual Cups: Serve in small cups for easy snacking. This makes it perfect for parties or movie nights.
• Family Style: Offer a larger bowl for sharing. Guests can help themselves and customize their toppings.

With Toppings

• Extra Cheese: Sprinkle additional cotija cheese on top for an extra creamy flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for those who love heat.

As a Side Dish

• Complementary Pairing: These cups make a wonderful side dish alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak.
• Colorful Platter: Serve with other colorful sides like guacamole and salsa for a vibrant display.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Cups

To elevate your Mexican Street Corn Cups, consider these simple tips for the best results.

• Bold Flavor Combo: Use fresh lime juice to enhance the flavor profile and add brightness.
• Texture Matters: Char the corn slightly in a skillet before mixing; this adds depth to the taste.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cilantro and quality cotija cheese for the best taste and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the mixture sit for a bit allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Spices: Try different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to find your favorite blend.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Cups

Pairing dishes with Mexican Street Corn Cups can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious side options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Juicy chicken wrapped in warm tortillas pairs well with the creaminess of corn cups.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and diced peppers adds protein and crunch.
3. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread provides healthy fats that balance the flavors.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa offers a classic pairing that everyone loves.
5. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices brings hearty satisfaction alongside your corn cups.
6. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy bites are fun to eat and add vegetable goodness to your meal.
7. Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This light, nutty grain adds fiber and complements the corn’s sweetness beautifully.
8. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies can round out your meal with extra nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Cups at home can be simple, but a few common mistakes can impact the final dish’s taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using bland corn: Always choose sweet corn for the best flavor. If using frozen or canned corn, make sure it’s high-quality to enhance the overall taste.

• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to add enough chili powder and lime juice. These ingredients elevate the dish, adding essential flavors that make it truly delicious.

• Overmixing the ingredients: Be gentle when mixing your corn and sauces. Overmixing can lead to a mushy texture that doesn’t do justice to this tasty treat.

• Not garnishing properly: A sprinkle of extra cotija cheese, cilantro, or Tajin can make a big difference in presentation and flavor. Always finish with a garnish for that authentic street food look.

• Serving cold: Mexican Street Corn Cups taste best when served warm. Make sure to heat them before serving for the ultimate experience.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Cups

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Cups

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mexican Street Corn Cups?

Mexican Street Corn Cups are a delightful way to enjoy elote, featuring sweet corn mixed with creamy sauces, cheese, lime, and spices served in cups for easy snacking.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While cotija is traditional, you can substitute with feta or even parmesan if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Cups?

Feel free to add diced jalapeños for heat or mix in other toppings like avocado or diced tomatoes for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Are Mexican Street Corn Cups gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How do I make these cups vegan?

To make vegan Mexican Street Corn Cups, swap mayo and sour cream for plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of cotija cheese.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Cups are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and flavors to suit your taste preferences. Whether as a snack or side dish at gatherings, these cups are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors of street food right at home!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Mexican Street Corn Cups

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mexican Street Corn Cups are a delicious and convenient twist on traditional elote, perfect for any occasion. This creamy, savory snack combines sweet corn with zesty lime, rich cotija cheese, and a hint of chili powder. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, these cups offer an explosion of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can serve up this crowd-pleaser as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Customize the spice level and toppings to match your personal taste—whether you prefer it mild or with an extra kick. Fresh ingredients like corn, cilantro, and lime make this dish not only tasty but also nutritious!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups corn kernels (frozen, canned, or grilled)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (plus more for topping)
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (to taste)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook the corn until heated through or charred for added flavor.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked corn with mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in most of the crumbled cotija cheese.
4. Spoon the mixture into serving cups and top with additional cheese, chili powder or Tajin seasoning, and chopped cilantro if desired.
5. Serve warm with lime wedges on the side.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg