Name: Elotes (Mexican Street Corn) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-495154H34M55S
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 6 ears corn, shucked and rinsed; Vegetable oil, for brushing if using air fryer; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Mexican crema or sour cream; 1/3 cup grated cotija cheese; 3 teaspoons chili powder; Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

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Introduction

Elotes, or Mexican street corn, is a beloved snack that’s full of smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors. This recipe offers two easy methods—grilling or air frying—to enjoy this classic treat at home. With a quick homemade sauce and bold toppings, it’s perfect for any casual gathering.

Grilled corn on the cob is shown with five pieces lined up on a white plate over a white marbled surface. Each corn has a yellow kernel layer with dark grill marks on them. There is a thick white cream layer spread evenly on each corn, topped with scattered white crumbly cheese and sprinkled with reddish-brown chili powder. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled around and on top of the corn. At the corner of the plate, there are a few lime wedges with bright green skin and juicy light green inside. The photo is taken close-up with bright, natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 ears corn, shucked and rinsed
Vegetable oil, for brushing if air frying

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Mexican crema or sour cream

1/3 cup grated cotija cheese
3 teaspoons chili powder

Chopped fresh cilantro, for serving
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: For grilling, prepare your grill for medium-high heat and let it heat for about 5 minutes. Place the corn on the grill, turning frequently until all sides are slightly charred, about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Mexican crema (or sour cream) until smooth.
Step 3: For the air fryer method, cut the corn to fit the basket, possibly halving the cobs. Brush the corn all over with vegetable oil.
Step 4: Arrange the corn in the air fryer basket in batches. Cook at 400°F, turning halfway through, until tender and lightly browned, about 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 5: Transfer the cooked corn to a platter. Brush each ear generously with the mayonnaise mixture, then sprinkle with grated cotija cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
Step 6: Serve immediately, warm or at room temperature, with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Tips & Variations

If you like extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture.

Cotija can be substituted with feta cheese if you can’t find it, though the flavor will be slightly different.
For a vegetarian version, ensure the crema is dairy-based or use a plant-based sour cream alternative.
Grilling adds a smoky flavor, but the air fryer offers a quicker and convenient option without sacrificing taste.

Storage

Store any leftover elotes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a microwave or air fryer until heated through, as the mayonnaise mixture may separate if overheated.

How to Serve

Three grilled corn ears lay side by side in a rectangular metal pan, each covered in a creamy white sauce that drips slightly over the bright yellow, charred kernels. The corn is sprinkled with white crumbled cheese and orange-red chili powder, with small green cilantro leaves scattered on top, adding bursts of green color. The metal pan has a worn, rustic look that contrasts with the vibrant corn. The image is set against a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can mix the mayonnaise and crema ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to one day. Just give it a good stir before using.

What if I don’t have a grill or an air fryer?

You can roast the corn in a conventional oven at 425°F, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes. Then proceed with the same toppings.