Mexican Street Corn Recipe

If you crave flavor-packed street snacks and never want to stop at just one bite, this is the dish for you! The Mexican Street Corn Recipe is a dazzling dance of creamy, tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors wrapped around golden kernels of corn. Whether you’ve enjoyed this classic from a cart or are encountering it for the first time, the creamy sriracha-mayo, punchy cheese, and fresh cilantro turn simple corn into a total showstopper. Ready to bring a fiesta to your kitchen? Let’s get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Mexican Street Corn Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, coming together to deliver bold color, irresistible texture, and big flavor in every bite.

• Sugar: Just a touch of sweetness draws out the natural sugars of the corn and balances out the tangy toppings.
• Frozen Corn: Plump, sweet, and super convenient—no husking required, and it’s delicious year-round!
• Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy, velvety texture that clings to every kernel.
• Sour Cream: Brings a luscious tang that keeps each bite fresh and light.
• Sriracha: A customizable kick—adjust to your spice preference for just the right amount of zing.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances all the other flavors to perfection. Use just enough for balance!
• Lime Salt (Optional): Elevates the vibrant citrus notes—try it if you have it for an extra pop.
• Cotija Cheese or Queso Fresco: Salty, crumbly, and brimming with authentic Mexican flavor; the street corn essential!
• Cilantro: Fresh, herby, and bright—just a sprinkle transforms the dish.
• Chili Powder: A dusting on top adds bold color and an earthy kick.
• Lime (Cut into Wedges): The finishing touch—add a squeeze for brightness!

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Sugar Water

Start by bringing 1 cup of water to a boil in a saucepan. Toss in the sugar and stir until dissolved. The sweetened water is the secret weapon that makes the corn perfectly juicy and enhances its natural flavor, just like you’d get from a street vendor.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

Once the water is boiling and your kitchen smells a little like kettle corn heaven, add the frozen corn. Cover with a lid and let it simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, or until the corn is cooked through and tender but still vibrant. You want it plump, juicy, and bursting with flavor!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sriracha-Mayo Sauce

While the corn is simmering, grab a small bowl and stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sriracha, kosher salt, and lime salt if you’re using it. This mixture is what makes the Mexican Street Corn Recipe so irresistibly creamy and satisfying—it tastes like summer in a bowl.

Step 4: Combine Corn with the Sauce

Drain the cooked corn thoroughly and return it to the pan. Let it cool for a few minutes so the sauce doesn’t melt off. Pour in your sriracha-mayo mixture, then stir until every kernel is fully coated and shimmering with flavor.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

Divide the saucy corn into four individual cups—street food style! Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese, handfuls of fresh cilantro, a dusting of chili powder, and a lime wedge on the side. It’s time to dig in while it’s still warm, creamy, and full of zest!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Garnishes

A little extra love on top goes a long way! For the perfect Mexican Street Corn Recipe, pile on fresh cilantro (for a pop of freshness), crumbled cotija or queso fresco (for salty, creamy goodness), bold chili powder, and that all-important lime wedge for squeezing over at the table. Each garnish brings its own magic to the party.

Side Dishes

This recipe absolutely shines next to classic Tex-Mex and Mexican sides. Think black beans, grilled meats, rice, or crispy tortilla chips. It’s also right at home at a barbecue, with tacos, or part of a taco salad spread—the creamy corn makes every plate more exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

Get festive and channel your inner street vendor by serving the corn in small paper cups or mason jars. Or, for a fun twist, pile the corn on top of baked potatoes, or use it as a zippy taco topping. However you present it, this Mexican Street Corn Recipe is guaranteed to get smiles and second helpings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra (lucky you!), scoop leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully, making it just as irresistible the next day for a quick lunch or snacking straight from the fridge.

Freezing

While corn itself freezes well, the creamy mixed version is best enjoyed fresh. The sauce can separate a bit after freezing, so if you must freeze, freeze just the cooked corn and add the creamy toppings after thawing for optimal texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the corn mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring often. Add an extra spoonful of mayo or sour cream if it seems dry. Top with fresh garnishes before serving for the full street cart experience!

FAQs

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen for the Mexican Street Corn Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh corn adds an even sweeter, juicier dimension. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and cook as directed. It’s a wonderful summer upgrade.

What’s the best substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija, queso fresco is next in line, but crumbled feta works in a pinch. Each adds that signature salty bite that makes this dish pop.

How spicy is this Mexican Street Corn Recipe?

That’s totally up to you! Use more or less sriracha and chili powder to tailor the heat level to your liking. Start with a little, and bump it up for more kick.

Can I make the creamy topping ahead?

Yes, you can mix the mayo, sour cream, sriracha, and salts up to a day ahead. Store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to toss with hot corn for easy prep.

Is this Mexican Street Corn Recipe gluten-free?

All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your chili powder and other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be surprised if this Mexican Street Corn Recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen! It’s quick, colorful, and downright addictive. Share it with friends at your next get-together or treat yourself on a weeknight—there’s simply no wrong time to make this crowd-pleaser!

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