Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy the irresistible flavors of Mexican street corn in a convenient cup form! Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, these Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-18T18:01:48.958Z

These Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico straight to your kitchen. With sweet corn, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of cheese, they are a delightful treat that captures the essence of street food!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bold, traditional Mexican flavors in every bite
  • Easy to make and serve at gatherings
  • Versatile – perfect as a side dish or a light meal
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings

The Origins of Elote

Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, has its roots in the vibrant culinary traditions of Mexico. Traditionally sold by street vendors, this dish features grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy sauce, topped with cheese, chili powder, and lime. The combination of flavors and textures makes elote a beloved snack throughout the country and beyond. By transforming this iconic dish into convenient cups, we bring the essence of elote to your gatherings in a fun and easy-to-serve format.

The preparation of elote can vary by region, with different toppings and sauces reflecting local flavors. Some variations even include spicy sauces or additional ingredients like avocado or garlic. This versatility gives you the freedom to customize your Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups to fit your taste preferences or the theme of your event. The traditional elements remain intact, ensuring that each bite is a delightful nod to its Mexican heritage.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a birthday party, or simply a casual dinner, these Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups are an excellent choice. They serve as a delightful appetizer that your guests will rave about. Their portable nature makes them easy to serve and enjoy, allowing everyone to savor the bold flavors of elote without the mess often associated with corn on the cob.

Additionally, these corn cups can double as a light meal. Pair them with grilled meats or tacos for a complete Mexican feast. The freshness of the corn, combined with the zesty flavors of lime and chili, makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that complements a variety of main courses. Plus, they are quick to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your friends and family.

Customizing Your Corn Cups

One of the best aspects of these Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups is their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings to create a personalized version of this classic dish. Consider adding diced jalapeños for an extra kick, or try drizzling some spicy hot sauce for those who love heat. You can also substitute Cotija cheese with feta or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.

For a refreshing twist, add diced avocados or a sprinkle of fresh lime zest. These additions not only elevate the flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of your corn cups. By customizing your corn cups, you can cater to different dietary preferences and create a dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Corn Cups

  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or 2 cans of corn, drained)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish

Mix all ingredients well to ensure every bite is flavorful!

Instructions

Prepare the Corn

If using fresh corn, grill or boil it until tender. If using canned corn, simply drain and rinse. In a large bowl, combine the corn with mayonnaise, sour cream, Cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and salt.

Assemble the Cups

Divide the corn mixture into individual cups. Top with additional Cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and chopped cilantro for garnish.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately while the corn is warm. Enjoy your delicious Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups!

These cups are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers of your Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making them even more delicious the following day. However, note that the texture of the corn may soften slightly as it sits.

To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute. If you prefer a crispy texture, consider placing them under the broiler for a few minutes. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Enjoy them warm for the best taste experience!

Serving Suggestions

These Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or shrimp for a deliciously balanced meal. They also complement Mexican favorites like tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas, creating a feast of flavors that celebrates Mexican cuisine.

For a complete gathering experience, consider offering a selection of beverages such as refreshing aguas frescas, Mexican sodas, or even margaritas. The acidity of these drinks works wonderfully with the rich flavors of the corn cups, enhancing your guests' overall dining experience.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before use.

→ What can I substitute for Cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a good alternative if you can't find Cotija.

→ How spicy are these cups?

The spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less chili powder according to your preference.

→ Can I make these cups ahead of time?

You can prepare the corn mixture in advance but it's best to assemble the cups just before serving for optimal freshness.

Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups

Enjoy the irresistible flavors of Mexican street corn in a convenient cup form! Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, these Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time20 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Corn Cups

  1. 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or 2 cans of corn, drained)
  2. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  3. 1/2 cup sour cream
  4. 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
  5. 1 tablespoon lime juice
  6. 1 teaspoon chili powder
  7. Salt to taste
  8. Chopped cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

If using fresh corn, grill or boil it until tender. If using canned corn, simply drain and rinse. In a large bowl, combine the corn with mayonnaise, sour cream, Cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and salt.

Step 02

Divide the corn mixture into individual cups. Top with additional Cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and chopped cilantro for garnish.

Step 03

Serve immediately while the corn is warm. Enjoy your delicious Elote Mexican Street Corn Cups!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 5g