As I walked through the vibrant streets of a local food festival, the enticing aroma of freshly grilled corn drifted through the air, calling to me like an old friend. That was my inspiration for this delightful Elote Corn in a Cup recipe. Imagine enjoying the sweet crunch of grilled corn, enveloped in a creamy dressing of mayonnaise and sour cream, and then topped with rich cotija cheese and zesty lime. Not only does this dish come together in just 17 minutes, but it also brings a festive flair to any table. It's the perfect crowd-pleaser for everything from casual gatherings to cozy family dinners. If you're ready to add some excitement to your cooking routine, keep reading to discover how simple and rewarding this dish can be!
Why is Elote Corn in a Cup special?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe takes just 17 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and creamy dressing creates a deliciously addictive taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for parties or family dinners, everyone will be reaching for seconds!
Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, snack, or even as a topping on tacos. If you love quick and satisfying recipes, don’t forget to check out Street Corn Chicken for another twist on this classic flavor!
Elevated toppings: The cotija cheese and chili powder add an authentic Mexican touch that really shines.
Elote Corn in a Cup Ingredients
Ready to create this irresistible Elote Corn in a Cup? Here’s everything you need!
For the Corn
• Corn kernels – 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn will bring sweetness to every bite.
• Butter – 2 tablespoons to add a rich, savory flavor to the corn.
For the Creamy Dressing
• Mayonnaise – ½ cup provides a creamy base that perfectly coats the corn.
• Sour cream – ½ cup adds a delightful tanginess; Greek yogurt can be a tasty substitute.
• Lime juice – 2 tablespoons brighten the dish with zesty freshness.
• Chili powder – 1 teaspoon for an extra kick that complements the sweetness of the corn.
• Salt – A pinch enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Pepper – A pinch adds a mild warmth to the dish.
For the Garnish
• Cotija cheese – ½ cup crumbled for that authentic Mexican flair and savory taste.
• Chopped cilantro – ¼ cup brings freshness and color to the finished dish.
Gather these ingredients to delight in the magic of Elote Corn in a Cup, a dish that captures the essence of street food right in your own kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Elote Corn in a Cup
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Begin by placing a skillet over medium heat and adding 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, creating a luscious base for your corn. Make sure it’s sizzling gently but not browning. This should take about 2 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when the aroma of the butter fills your kitchen.
Step 2: Cook the Corn
Next, add the 2 cups of corn kernels to the skillet, stirring them well to coat with the melted butter. Cook the corn for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred and golden. The vibrant color change will signal that your corn is perfectly cooked and ready to mingle with the creamy dressing.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
While the corn cooks, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper. Mix until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. The dressing should look velvety and be bursting with flavor, ready to elevate your Elote Corn in a Cup.
Step 4: Combine Corn and Dressing
Once the corn is cooked and charred, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes. Then, fold the warm corn into the creamy dressing you prepared earlier, mixing gently to ensure every kernel is coated. The warmth of the corn will enhance the flavors, creating a mouthwatering combination.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Now it’s time to mix in ½ cup of crumbled cotija cheese and ¼ cup of chopped cilantro into your corn mixture. Stir these ingredients together until they’re evenly distributed, showcasing the delightful contrast of textures and flavors. You’ll see how the cheese adds a savory richness, perfectly complementing the creamy corn.
Step 6: Serve in Cups
To serve your Elote Corn in a Cup, spoon generous portions of the mixture into individual cups, making sure to get a good mix of corn, dressing, cheese, and cilantro in each. This final step makes for an eye-catching presentation. Serve immediately while it’s warm, allowing everyone to enjoy this festive dish right away.
What to Serve with Elote Corn in a Cup
Each bite of this delightful dish is a burst of flavor, making it the perfect addition to any gathering or meal.
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Grilled Shrimp Tacos: The smoky flavor of grilled shrimp pairs beautifully with the sweet corn, creating a fresh and satisfying taco combo.
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Spicy Black Bean Salad: This vibrant salad adds a hearty contrast and a protein boost, making your meal both filling and nutritious.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with lime and chili enhance the refreshing aspect of your Elote Corn, providing a delightful crunch.
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Savory Rice Pilaf: A light, herbed rice pilaf adds a nice texture and balances the creamy richness of the corn with its fluffy grains.
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Chilled White Sangria: A glass of chilled white sangria with citrus notes complements the flavors, making it a refreshing accompaniment.
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Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For dessert, offer a sweet touch! Churros provide a warm, crispy finish that rounds off your meal delightfully.
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Avocado Toast: Spread some creamy avocado on toasted bread for a simple side that adds a touch of richness without competing for attention.
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Grilled Street Corn: Embrace the corn theme with another layer of flavor—grilled corn on the cob smothered in lime and spices can be a fun side to share.
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Lime Sorbet: A light, refreshing sorbet can cleanse the palate and adds a perfect zing to your dining experience.
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Pineapple Agua Fresca: This sweet, fruity drink brings a tropical twist and refreshment, perfectly offsetting the creamy goodness of Elote Corn in a Cup.
Expert Tips for Elote Corn in a Cup
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh corn kernels when possible for the best sweetness and texture; frozen is fine, but fresh shines.
• Perfectly Charmed: Avoid overcooking the corn; cook just until lightly charred for that ideal balance of flavor and crunch.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference; you can also add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Stir Gently: When folding the corn into the dressing, mix gently to keep some kernels intact; this enhances the visual appeal of your Elote Corn in a Cup.
• Garnish Prior to Serving: For an added flourish, sprinkle some extra cotija cheese and cilantro on top just before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the corn and dressing separately, then combine closer to serving time; this keeps everything fresh and delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Elote Corn in a Cup
Fridge: Store leftover Elote Corn in a Cup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and maintains the creamy texture of the dressing.
Freezer: While freezing is not ideal for this creamy dish, you can freeze the corn mixture (without dressing) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and mix in the dressing fresh!
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the corn in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Storing Dressing Separately: If possible, store the creamy dressing separately and mix it in just before serving. This helps prevent the corn from becoming soggy!
Elote Corn in a Cup Variations
Feel free to make this Elote Corn in a Cup your own—unlock new flavors and ingredients that will excite your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise and sour cream for avocado or a plant-based yogurt alternative for a creamy, vegan-friendly twist.
Embrace the rich, buttery texture of ripe avocados for a luscious coat on your corn, making it equally indulgent and wholesome. -
Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who crave an extra kick in their dish.
A little heat elevates the flavor and transforms it into a fiery fiesta you'll want to share with friends. -
Grilled Flavor: Use grilled corn instead of sautéed for a smoky depth that adds a barbecue flair to your cup.
The charred sweetness from grilling takes your Elote Corn in a Cup to a whole new level of deliciousness! -
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like tarragon or basil in place of cilantro for refreshing variations.
This simple swap can introduce surprising new layers of flavor that keep every bite interesting. -
Zesty Toppings: Enhance with crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a depth of flavor and added creaminess.
These toppings contribute unique notes that your guests will be eager to savor, complementing the dish beautifully. -
Nutty Addition: Incorporate crushed nuts like cashews or almonds for a delightful crunch and richness.
This unexpected ingredient brings not only texture but also a satisfying nutty flavor that amplifies your creamy treat. -
Sweet Contrast: Mix in diced mango or pineapple to infuse a refreshing, sweet element, striking a perfect balance with the savory base.
This twist celebrates contrasting flavors, creating a party on your palate that will surprise and delight! -
Alternative Base: For a hearty option, use quinoa or rice as a base before layering your corn mixture, transforming it into a filling meal.
This approach not only adds nutrition but also gives your dish a unique flair, transforming it into a main-stay delight.
For even more mouthwatering recipes that celebrate corn-inspired flavors, don't miss the scrumptious Churro Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting or indulge in the sweetness of Strawberry Cupcakes Moist.
Make Ahead Options
Elote Corn in a Cup is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can cook the corn and prepare the creamy dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cool the cooked corn and refrigerate it in an airtight container, and do the same with the dressing separately. When you're ready to serve, mix the chilled corn with the dressing, then fold in the cotija cheese and cilantro just before diving in. This way, every spoonful tastes fresh and delicious while keeping your prep work light during mealtime!
Elote Corn in a Cup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting corn kernels, opt for fresh corn on the cob if available. Look for cobs that are firm, with tightly packed kernels and bright green husks. If using frozen corn, make sure it's whole kernel and doesn't have dark spots all over; this ensures sweetness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Elote Corn in a Cup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to mix it gently before serving again to redistribute the flavors and creaminess.
Can I freeze Elote Corn in a Cup?
While I recommend against freezing the entire dish due to the creamy dressing, you can freeze the cooked corn mixture without dressing for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the corn cool, then place it in a suitable freezer-safe container. When ready to use, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and mix in the dressing fresh for the best taste!
What should I do if my corn is overcooked?
The more the merrier! If you've accidentally charred the corn too much, you can try adding more dressing to balance out the flavors. This can help add moisture and subtlety back to the dish. Additionally, ensuring you’re cooking over medium heat helps prevent overcooking on your next attempt!
Are there any dietary considerations for Elote Corn in a Cup?
Very! If you're making this for someone with allergies, be cautious as the recipe contains mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese, which may not be suitable for all diets. For a vegan option, substitute these ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as avocado mayo, coconut yogurt, and dairy-free cheese. Always check labels for potential allergens!
How can I spice it up for those who love heat?
Absolutely! If you or your guests prefer a bit more spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the dressing. Adjust the chili powder to your desired heat level; the dish is versatile enough to accommodate various spice preferences!
Delicious Elote Corn in a Cup – Easy Street Food Delight
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Corn
- 2 cups Corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 2 tablespoons Butter
For the Creamy Dressing
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- ½ cup Sour cream Greek yogurt can be a substitute
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder
- pinch Salt
- pinch Pepper
For the Garnish
- ½ cup Cotija cheese crumbled
- ¼ cup Chopped cilantro
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
- Cook the corn kernels in the skillet for 5 to 7 minutes until lightly charred and golden.
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Fold the cooked corn into the creamy dressing until well-coated.
- Mix in crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro until evenly distributed.
- Spoon the mixture into individual cups and serve while warm.
