Irresistible and Flavor-Packed Mexican Street Corn Cups Recipe

If you’re looking for a bold and flavorful snack, appetizer, or side dish that’s quick to make and incredibly satisfying, this Mexican Street Corn Cups recipe is a must-try. Bursting with the same mouthwatering taste of traditional Elote but served in a convenient cup, these corn cups deliver the perfect combination of sweet corn, creamy sauce, zesty lime, and the spicy kick of chili powder. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, game day party, or simply want to spice up a weeknight meal, these delicious cups bring authentic street food flavor straight to your kitchen. Ideal for both kids and adults, this dish is easy to prepare and totally crave-worthy.

What Are Mexican Street Corn Cups?

Mexican Street Corn Cups, also known as Esquites, are a deconstructed version of the classic Elote—Mexican street corn on the cob. Instead of serving the corn on the cob, it’s cut off and mixed in a bowl or cup with mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder. This makes it easier to eat and perfect for serving at gatherings or packing in lunchboxes. The cup version of this beloved snack gives you all the flavor of Elote with less mess and more versatility.

Save

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Cups

To create these flavor-packed Mexican Street Corn Cups, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are easy to find at most grocery stores and deliver the authentic taste that makes this dish so memorable:

• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Juice of 1 lime
• ⅓ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the signature taste of the dish. For example, the combination of sour cream and mayo gives the corn a rich, tangy base, while lime juice adds brightness and balance.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Perfect Mexican Street Corn Cups

Creating the perfect Mexican Street Corn Cups at home is incredibly simple. Follow these steps to achieve the creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor in every bite:

1. Cook the Corn: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Once it’s hot and bubbling, add the corn kernels. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the corn starts to char slightly—about 5 to 7 minutes. Charring gives the corn that smoky, grilled flavor reminiscent of traditional street corn.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, lime juice, and chili powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. Combine Corn and Sauce: Add the cooked corn to the bowl with the creamy sauce. Stir well until all the kernels are evenly coated.
4. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Fold in the crumbled cotija cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using cilantro, sprinkle it in at this stage for an extra layer of freshness.
5. Serve in Cups: Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra chili powder, cotija cheese, and a few cilantro leaves if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Save

This recipe is straightforward but delivers a complex depth of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make this Mexican Street Corn Cups recipe, you’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Citrus juicer (optional)
• Serving cups or bowls

The minimal equipment required makes this a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Pro Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Cups Every Time

To ensure your corn cups are bursting with authentic flavor, here are some helpful tips:

• Use fresh corn when in season: Fresh corn kernels straight off the cob bring unmatched sweetness and crunch.
• Char the corn for maximum flavor: Don’t skip this step—it adds that irresistible smoky note.
• Adjust the spice level: Add more or less chili powder depending on your heat preference.
• Make ahead: You can cook the corn and prep the sauce a few hours in advance. Just mix everything right before serving.

These tips can help you avoid bland or soggy results and elevate your corn cups to the next level.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Mexican Street Corn Cups

Even though this recipe is easy to follow, a few common mistakes can affect the final outcome:

• Skipping the charring step: Boiled or steamed corn won’t have the same depth of flavor as pan-roasted kernels.
• Overloading on mayonnaise: Too much mayo can overpower the other ingredients. Stick to the recommended ratio.
• Not draining canned corn: Excess liquid will water down the creamy mixture.
• Using table cheese instead of cotija: Cotija or feta offers the best salty, crumbly texture.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures that your dish remains true to its Mexican street food roots.

Serving and Presentation Tips for Mexican Street Corn Cups

Presentation can transform a simple dish into a memorable one. Here are some ideas to make your Mexican Street Corn Cups extra special:

• Serve in mini mason jars or colorful cups for a festive look.
• Garnish with extra cheese, lime wedges, and cilantro to highlight freshness.
• Add a sprinkle of Tajín seasoning on top for a professional touch.
• Serve warm with tortilla chips for added crunch and texture.

Making your dish visually appealing encourages everyone to dig in—and maybe even ask for seconds!

Variations and Substitutes for Mexican Street Corn Cups

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few delicious variations you can try:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
• Swap in feta cheese if cotija isn’t available.
• Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
• Include diced avocado or red onion for added texture and freshness.
• Make it vegan by using plant-based mayo, dairy-free sour cream, and vegan cheese.

Feel free to customize based on your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Every variation brings a new twist to this beloved recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Mexican Street Corn Cups

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Storage: Transfer the corn mixture to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring between bursts. Add a splash of lime juice to refresh the flavors.
• Avoid freezing: The creamy ingredients may separate when frozen and thawed, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Proper storage ensures that the flavor and texture remain delicious even the next day.

What to Serve With Mexican Street Corn Cups

These corn cups are rich and flavorful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes:

• Grilled chicken or fish for a light, balanced meal
• Black bean tacos or burrito bowls for a meatless pairing
• Quesadillas or enchiladas for a full Mexican feast
• A fresh green salad to balance the creaminess

Serve alongside rice, beans, or tortilla chips for a satisfying and festive plate.

Mexican Street Corn Cups Recipe FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the corn and sauce in advance, but it’s best to mix them just before serving to maintain texture.

What if I don’t have cotija cheese?
Feta is the closest substitute and works beautifully.

Can I use canned corn?
Absolutely! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well before charring it in the pan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check your ingredient labels to be sure.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free alternatives for the sour cream, mayo, and cheese to make it suitable for those with dairy restrictions.

Conclusion and Call to Action

This Mexican Street Corn Cups recipe is more than just a delicious snack—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and vibrant textures. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s ideal for busy families, festive occasions, or solo cravings. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can recreate authentic Mexican street food in your own kitchen.

If you loved this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends, save it to your favorite recipe board, and subscribe to our blog for more easy, flavor-packed dishes like this one. Your next favorite recipe might just be a click away!

Print