Stepping into the warm embrace of summer, the vibrant street vendors of Mexico come to life, serving up a tantalizing dish that makes everyone stop in their tracks: Elote Corn in a Cup. This delightful take on the classic street corn combines sweet, charred kernels with creamy goodness, making it a perfect side for any gathering or a satisfying snack on its own. What I love most about this recipe is its quick prep time—just 17 minutes from start to finish—allowing you to create a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easily customizable to fit your taste, making it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to bring a little bit of that summer vibe into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe together!
Why is Elote Corn in a Cup Special?
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and is ready in just 17 minutes, making it a breeze for busy days.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cotija cheese combined with zesty lime juice and spices creates an irresistible harmony of flavors.
Versatile Serving: Whether as a snack, side dish, or a fun addition to your barbecue, it fits right in at any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: One bite and you'll see why this dish is loved—it's sure to have your friends and family asking for the recipe!
For more easy, flavorful dishes, check out our collection of quick summer recipes. Prepare it ahead for those busy weeknights by using our meal prep tips to save time in the kitchen!
Elote Corn in a Cup Ingredients
Get ready to whip up this zesty delight with these simple ingredients!
For the Corn Base
• Corn kernels – 2 cups of sweet corn elevate the dish with natural sweetness and texture.
• Butter – 2 tablespoons to add richness and help char the corn perfectly.
For the Creamy Dressing
• Mayonnaise – ½ cup gives a delightful creaminess that binds all the flavors.
• Sour cream – ½ cup for a tangy twist that balances the sweetness of the corn.
• Lime juice – 2 tablespoons bring a bright, zesty finish to the mixture.
• Chili powder – 1 teaspoon adds a warm kick—feel free to adjust for your spice preference!
• Salt – 1 pinch to enhance all the flavors perfectly.
• Pepper – 1 pinch for a subtle bite that rounds out the dish.
For the Toppings
• Cotija cheese – ½ cup crumbled brings a salty, crumbly texture that’s a must for true elote flavor!
• Chopped cilantro – ¼ cup for a fresh and aromatic touch that beautifully complements the dish.
Now that you have everything lined up, you’re on your way to creating the most delightful Elote Corn in a Cup that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Elote Corn in a Cup
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely, creating a luscious base for the corn. You’ll know it’s ready when it bubbles gently. This should take about 1–2 minutes, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma.
Step 2: Cook the Corn
Once the butter is melted, add 2 cups of fresh corn kernels to the skillet. Stir them occasionally as they cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the kernels become lightly charred and fragrant. The golden color of the corn will signal that it’s achieving that delicious roasted flavor typical of Elote Corn in a Cup.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
While the corn is cooking, grab a medium bowl and whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 teaspoon chili powder, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, taking care to ensure there are no lumps. The vibrant mixture will add a rich and zesty flavor to the Elote Corn in a Cup.
Step 4: Combine Corn and Dressing
Once the corn is perfectly charred, remove it from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Fold the warm corn into the creamy dressing from the previous step, ensuring every kernel is well-coated. Then, gently mix in ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese and ¼ cup chopped cilantro, enhancing both taste and texture for your Elote Corn in a Cup.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the flavorful corn mixture into individual cups, creating a delightful presentation. Serve immediately while it’s warm, and enjoy this crowd-pleasing Elote Corn in a Cup. The bright colors and irresistible aroma will have everyone eager to dig in!
What to Serve with Elote Corn in a Cup
Delight your guests with these complementary dishes that will elevate your Elote Corn in a Cup into a stunning feast.
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Crispy Grilled Chicken: Juicy, succulent chicken with a touch of smokiness creates a perfect protein pairing that contrasts beautifully with the creamy corn.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of vibrant greens and crunchy vegetables adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the rich and indulgent flavors of your corn delight.
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Spicy Shrimp Tacos: The zesty shrimp, with its kick, harmonizes wonderfully with the sweetness of the corn, creating a vibrant medley of Mexican-inspired flavors.
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Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole and crunchy chips offer a classic and satisfying snack that keeps the party atmosphere lively.
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Charred Vegetable Skewers: Colorful veggies grilled until tender bring a smoky flavor that complements the corn while adding a nutritious touch to your meal.
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Margaritas: Refreshing and tangy, these drinks echo the zesty lime in the dish and serve as a fun way to cool down with every bite.
Mix and match these suggestions and watch your table transform into a lively celebration of flavors!
Make Ahead Options
Elote Corn in a Cup is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can cook the corn and prepare the creamy dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply melt the butter and char the corn, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dressing can also be mixed and refrigerated separately. To maintain the dish's delightful flavor and texture, keep the dressing and corn apart until just before serving. When you're ready to enjoy, combine the corn with the dressing, stir in the cotija cheese and cilantro, and serve! You'll have a delicious treat with minimal effort that everyone will love.
Elote Corn in a Cup Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this delightful dish to suit your tastes!
- Vegan Twist: Substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives for a vegan-friendly version. You'll still get that creamy texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to bring an extra heat level. It's a great way to make this dish unforgettable!
- Cheesy Alternative: Replace cotija with feta cheese for a tangy twist, or try queso fresco for a lighter flavor. Each offers a unique flair to your Elote!
- Herbal Infusion: Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or basil to experiment with different herbal notes. Each herb brings its own character to the dish.
- Add Crunch: Mix in diced red onions or bell peppers for added crunch and sweetness. They enhance not just the texture but also the overall flavor.
- Southwestern Style: Incorporate black beans and corn for a heartier, more filling version that’s perfect as a main dish. This gives a lovely protein boost too!
- Smoky Flavor: A sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a delightful, smoky element to your Elote. It deepens the flavor and adds a warm aroma.
- Nutty Finish: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts for a satisfying crunch. The nutty flavor complements the creamy and sweet elements perfectly!
And as you explore these variations, don't forget to check out our collection of quick summer recipes for more meal inspirations, or get ahead on your week by using our meal prep tips!
Expert Tips for Elote Corn in a Cup
Perfectly Charred Corn: Aim for lightly charred corn to achieve that authentic flavor. Stir occasionally, watching for a golden hue, which takes about 5–7 minutes.
Customizable Spice: Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference. Start with a smaller amount and taste before adding more to avoid overwhelming the dish.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh corn kernels for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and well-drained for optimal results.
Layering Flavors: Stir the dressing thoroughly before combining it with the corn. This ensures a splendid distribution of flavors throughout your Elote Corn in a Cup.
Serving Warm: Serve the mixture warm, as the flavors meld beautifully when heated. It can be enjoyed slightly chilled, but the warmth truly enhances the experience!
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 2 days. Gently stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dressed corn up to 24 hours in advance. Store the corn and dressing separately in airtight containers and mix just before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mixture without the dressing in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or lime juice to maintain moisture and flavor. Enjoy!
Elote Corn in a Cup Recipe FAQs
What kind of corn should I use for Elote Corn in a Cup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh corn kernels. You can cut them straight off the cob for that sweet, crunchy goodness. If fresh corn isn’t available, thawed and well-drained frozen corn works well too, but the taste might be slightly different.
How should I store leftovers of Elote Corn in a Cup?
Leftover Elote Corn in a Cup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to stir gently before serving to redistribute all those fantastic flavors. If you prefer, you can also prepare the dressed corn up to 24 hours in advance and keep the corn and dressing separately until you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze Elote Corn in a Cup?
Definitely! If you want to freeze it, I suggest doing so without the dressing. Place the corn mixture in an airtight container and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently. Adding a splash of lime juice helps revive the flavors beautifully!
What should I do if the corn isn't charred enough?
If you’re not seeing that lovely char on the corn, increase the heat slightly. Make sure you're stirring the corn occasionally, but don’t hover over it too much, as letting it sit will allow it to develop those beautiful brown bits. This process usually takes about 5–7 minutes, so be patient—it’ll be worth it!
Are there any dietary considerations for Elote Corn in a Cup?
Of course! If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, you can make this dish gluten-free by ensuring that all condiments are certified gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, consider using vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free sour cream alternatives. Always check the ingredients if you're serving those with allergies, especially to dairy!
Savor the Flavor: Elote Corn in a Cup Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it melts and bubbles gently, about 1–2 minutes.
- Add 2 cups of fresh corn kernels to the skillet and stir occasionally for about 5–7 minutes, until lightly charred.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 teaspoon chili powder, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper until smooth.
- Remove the corn from heat and cool slightly before folding it into the creamy dressing along with ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese and ¼ cup chopped cilantro.
- Spoon the mixture into individual cups and serve immediately while warm.
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