Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a side dish that bursts with zesty flavor, creamy texture, and a touch of heat, this Mexican Street Corn Casserole is exactly what you need. Inspired by classic elote from Mexican street vendors, this casserole is cheesy, tangy, and absolutely irresistible for potlucks, family dinners, or weeknight cravings. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Super easy to throw together for a crowd or a family dinner.
- Combines the irresistible flavors of elote in casserole form.
- Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a punch of fresh lime and cilantro.
- Customizable spice level to suit any taste.
- Perfect side for barbecue, tacos, or any Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen corn kernels (thawed)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus more for garnish)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional for more heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
Directions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a little butter.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and melted butter until smooth.
Step 3: Mix in the Flavor
Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the wet mixture. Stir until completely combined.
Step 4: Add Corn and Cheeses
Fold in the thawed corn, Monterey Jack cheese, cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeño (if using). Mix well so everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven and immediately squeeze the lime juice over the top. Sprinkle with extra cotija cheese and more cilantro for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure the frozen corn is completely thawed and patted dry for the best texture.
- For even more smoky flavor, char the corn lightly in a skillet before mixing.
- Feel free to swap Monterey Jack for pepper jack if you like extra spice!
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Meaty Twist: Stir in 1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon or chorizo before baking.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based mayo, sour cream, and cheese for a dairy-free option.
Required Equipment
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula or spoon
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve alongside grilled meats, tacos, or fajitas for a festive spread.
- Top with extra lime, more cotija, or a sprinkle of Tajín for added zest.
- Pairs perfectly with a crisp Mexican lager or homemade margarita.
Pro Tips
- For best flavor, zest the lime before juicing and sprinkle the zest on top as garnish.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.
- If you want a crunchy topping, add crushed tortilla chips during the last 10 minutes of baking.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Use about 5-6 ears of corn, kernels removed, for the freshest taste. - Is cotija cheese necessary?
Cotija adds authentic flavor, but feta or parmesan can be substituted in a pinch. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to 1 day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen corn kernels (thawed)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus more for garnish)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional for more heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
-
1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a little butter.
-
2In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and melted butter until smooth.
-
3Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the wet mixture. Stir until completely combined.
-
4Fold in the thawed corn, Monterey Jack cheese, cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeño (if using). Mix well so everything is evenly coated.
-
5Spoon the mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
-
6Remove from the oven and immediately squeeze the lime juice over the top. Sprinkle with extra cotija cheese and more cilantro for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
320 caloriescal
Protein:
10gg
Fat:
23gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
22gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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