Creamy Mexican Street Corn Cups

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 4 cups corn kernels, fresh, frozen, or canned
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Extra chili powder or Tajín, for topping

Instructions

1. If using frozen corn, thaw it first. If using canned corn, drain it very well.
2. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the corn and cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kernels are hot and lightly charred in spots.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the corn to cool for 2–3 minutes.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream or crema, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt.
6. Stir until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
7. Add the warm corn to the creamy mixture.
8. Add most of the crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, reserving a little of each for garnish.
9. Gently stir until all the corn is evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
10. Taste and adjust with additional lime juice, chili powder, or salt if needed.
11. Spoon the creamy street corn mixture into small clear cups.
12. Top each cup with extra cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and a light sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín.
13. Add a lime wedge to the side of each cup.
14. Serve immediately while slightly warm, or refrigerate and serve chilled.

Tips

For the most authentic flavor, use cotija cheese. Feta is a good substitute if cotija is unavailable.

Char the corn slightly in the skillet. Those browned edges add the roasted flavor associated with Mexican street corn.

Do not overcook the corn because it should still have a little bite.

For a creamier texture, add another spoonful of sour cream or Mexican crema.

If you like spicy food, mix in finely chopped jalapeño or a few drops of hot sauce.

For party serving, use small clear plastic cups and add a small spoon to each one.

Variations

You can add diced avocado for a creamy fresh version.

Mix in black beans for a more filling snack.

Add finely diced red onion for extra crunch.

For smoky flavor, use grilled corn cut directly from the cob.

You can also top the cups with crushed tortilla chips for extra texture.

Storage

Store leftover street corn mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For the best presentation, add the cheese, cilantro, chili seasoning, and lime wedges just before serving.

Do not freeze the prepared mixture because the creamy dressing can separate after thawing.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutrition per serving:

• Calories: 250–290 kcal
• Protein: 6–8 g
• Carbohydrates: 28–32 g
• Fat: 14–18 g
• Fiber: 3–4 g
• Sugar: 6–8 g

Nutrition will vary depending on the type of cheese, corn, and crema used.

Benefits

Corn provides carbohydrates, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals.

Using fresh lime juice and cilantro adds bright flavor without requiring much extra salt.

Cheese and sour cream add protein and calcium.

Because these are portioned into individual cups, they are especially convenient for parties, cookouts, picnics, and family gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned corn?
Yes. Drain it very well before adding it to the skillet.

Can I use frozen corn?
Yes. Thaw it first and remove excess moisture so it browns instead of steaming.

Can I serve these cold?
Yes. They taste good warm, room temperature, or chilled.

What can I use instead of cotija cheese?
Feta cheese is the easiest substitute.

Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the mixture a few hours ahead, refrigerate it, then add the garnishes just before serving.

How can I make them spicier?
Add jalapeño, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or extra Tajín.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes. Plain Greek yogurt works well and gives the mixture a slightly tangier flavor.

What size cups should I use?
Small 5–8 oz cups work especially well for individual servings.

What should I serve with them?
They pair well with tacos, grilled chicken, burgers, barbecue, nachos, or other Mexican-inspired dishes.