Mexican Street Corn – Creamy, Smoky & Flavor-Packed Corn on the Cob

This Mexican street corn is creamy, smoky, and loaded with bold flavor in every bite. Grilled corn is coated in a rich creamy sauce, sprinkled with cheese, chili powder, and fresh herbs for a classic street-style side dish that’s perfect for BBQs, summer dinners, or taco nights. It’s easy, vibrant, and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Smoky grilled corn flavor
  • Creamy and cheesy topping
  • Easy summer side dish
  • Perfect for BBQs and parties
  • Bold Mexican-inspired flavor
  • Quick and simple preparation
  • Great with grilled meats
  • Fresh and colorful presentation
  • Crowd-pleasing recipe
  • Restaurant-style street corn at home

Ingredients

Flat lay of corn, cotija cheese, lime, and Mexican street corn ingredients

  • 6 ears corn, husks removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Creamy Topping

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Four step collage showing grilling corn, adding sauce, topping with cheese, and serving

  1. Brush corn lightly with olive oil.
  2. Grill corn over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until lightly charred.
  3. Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
  4. Spread creamy mixture over warm grilled corn.
  5. Sprinkle with cheese, chili powder, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
  6. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Tips & Variations

  • Use feta if cotija is unavailable
  • Add cayenne for more heat
  • Broil corn indoors if no grill available
  • Use frozen corn for salad version
  • Add smoked paprika for extra smokiness
  • Serve with tacos or grilled chicken
  • Use Greek yogurt for lighter version
  • Sprinkle extra cheese before serving
  • Add hot sauce for spicy flavor
  • Grill lime halves for extra flavor

Storage & Freezer Instructions

  • Store leftovers refrigerated up to 2 days
  • Best served fresh and warm
  • Reheat lightly before serving
  • Do not freeze after topping
  • Store toppings separately if prepping ahead

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Mexican street corn served with tacos and lime wedges

  • Tacos
  • Grilled chicken
  • Steak kabobs
  • BBQ brisket
  • Rice bowls
  • Fresh salads
  • Burgers
  • Tortilla chips
  • Guacamole
  • Summer picnic meals

Frequently Asked Questions

What cheese is best for Mexican street corn?

Cotija cheese is traditional, but feta works well too.

Can I make this without a grill?

Yes, roast or broil the corn in the oven until charred.

Is Mexican street corn spicy?

It has mild heat, but you can adjust spice level easily.

Can I make it ahead?

You can prep the sauce ahead, but grill and assemble before serving.

Ready to Make It?

This Mexican street corn is creamy, smoky, cheesy, and bursting with bold flavor. It’s the perfect summer side dish for BBQs, taco nights, and easy family dinners.

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Grilled Mexican street corn with cheese, chili, and lime

Mexican Street Corn


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  • Author: Myla
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy Mexican street corn made with grilled corn on the cob, tangy lime sauce, cheese, chili powder, and fresh cilantro.


Ingredients

Scale

6 ears corn

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1/3 cup sour cream

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 cup cotija cheese

1 teaspoon chili powder

2 tablespoons cilantro

Salt and black pepper


Instructions

1. Brush corn with olive oil.

2. Grill until lightly charred.

3. Mix creamy topping ingredients.

4. Spread topping over warm corn.

5. Add cheese and seasonings before serving.

Notes

Serve immediately for best texture.

Use feta if cotija is unavailable.

Adjust spice to taste.

Grill lime wedges for extra flavor.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ear corn
  • Calories: 240 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg

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