Skillet Mexican Street Corn
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, mouthwatering side dish that brings bold flavors to the table, Skillet Mexican Street Corn is the perfect recipe. Inspired by the vibrant and flavorful Mexican elote, this dish simplifies the process by transforming it into a skillet-cooked delight. With a mix of creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavors that complement any meal. Let’s dive into the details of this tasty recipe!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Corn kernels: 4 cups (can use fresh, frozen, or canned)
– Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons
– Sour cream: 2 tablespoons
– Cotija cheese: 1/4 cup, crumbled
– Lime: One, juiced
– Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
– Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
– Butter: 2 tablespoons
– Fresh cilantro: 1 tablespoon, chopped
– Salt: To taste
Prep Time
Preparing Skillet Mexican Street Corn takes only a few minutes of your time. Clean and prepare your corn if you’re using fresh ears, or thaw if you’re going for the frozen option. Gather and measure all your additional ingredients so the cooking process is seamless and stress-free.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Skillet Mexican Street Corn takes approximately 10 minutes to cook, making it an ideal quick and easy side dish. From prep to plating, the total time to create this flavorful dish is around 15 minutes. This recipe yields 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings.
Now that you have all the information, it’s time to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Skillet Mexican Street Corn. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned—a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll come back to again and again. Serve it alongside your favorite grilled meats, tacos, or any meal that needs a flavorful lift.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
– Remove the husks and silk from fresh ears of corn. Rinse well under water.
– Use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob. Be cautious as kernels can scatter. Aim to collect them in a large bowl.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
– Place a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
– Add a tablespoon of butter (or oil if preferred) to the pan and allow it to fully melt.
Step 3: Cook the Corn
– Add the kernels to the heated skillet once the butter has melted.
– Let the corn cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the kernels are slightly charred or golden.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
– Lower the heat slightly.
– Sprinkle salt, chili powder, and smoked paprika over the corn. Stir well to evenly coat the kernels.
Step 5: Mix in the Sauce
– In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice.
– Pour this mixture into the skillet with the corn and stir to combine.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
– Crumble cotija cheese over the warm skillet corn.
– Stir to ensure the cheese lightly melts and blends with the creamy sauce.
Step 7: Final Touches
– Remove the skillet from the heat.
– Add a handful of chopped cilantro to the corn mixture and stir again.
– Taste for seasoning and adjust with more salt or lime juice if needed.
Step 8: Serve
– Transfer the Mexican Street Corn to a serving dish or serve it directly from the skillet.
– Optionally, garnish with additional cotija cheese, chili powder, or fresh lime wedges.
Notes
Note 1: Corn Substitutes
– If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen or canned corn can be used. Ensure frozen corn is thawed and patted dry, and canned corn is drained and rinsed before cooking.
Note 2: Cheese Alternatives
– Cotija cheese is traditional, but feta cheese can work as a substitute. Parmesan may also be used in a pinch, though the flavor will differ.
Note 3: Heat Level
– Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your desired level of spiciness. Additional hot sauce or diced jalapeños can also be included for extra heat.
Note 4: Make-Ahead Tips
– The corn can be prepared and cooked in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet on low heat, then add fresh garnishes before serving.
Note 5: Serving Ideas
– Serve as a side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or BBQ.
– Alternatively, serve as a dip with tortilla chips for a party or snack.
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Cook Techniques
Using a Cast Iron Skillet
A cast iron skillet provides even heat distribution, which is perfect for cooking the corn to achieve a nice char and enhance its flavor.
Charring the Corn
Ensure you cook the corn over medium-high heat to get a nice char, which adds a smoky, authentic taste to the dish.
Combining Ingredients Off Heat
To maintain the creaminess and avoid overcooking, mix in the mayonnaise and sour cream after removing the skillet from the heat.
Adding Cheese
Crumble cotija cheese directly into the corn and mix thoroughly so every bite gets the salty, tangy flavor.
Finishing with Garnishes
Top the dish with lime wedges, chopped cilantro, and additional cheese before serving for a fresh and vibrant final touch.
FAQ
Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh corn?
Yes, frozen or canned corn can be used. If using frozen corn, allow it to thaw and drain any excess water. For canned corn, make sure to rinse and drain before cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It is best when served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and quickly assemble and reheat before serving.
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
If cotija cheese is not available, feta cheese or grated parmesan can be used as alternatives.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe includes chili powder, which adds a mild heat. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less chili powder based on your preference.
Conclusion
Skillet Mexican Street Corn is a wonderfully flavorful and easy-to-prepare side dish that captures the essence of traditional Mexican elote. This creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish is perfect for any meal and is sure to impress your family and friends. The vibrant mix of ingredients makes it an unforgettable addition to your recipe collection.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Pair your Skillet Mexican Street Corn with grilled chicken tacos for a lively and satisfying Mexican-inspired meal.
Beef Fajitas
Serve the corn alongside sizzling beef fajitas to add a touch of creaminess and spice to the dish.
Loaded Guacamole
Enjoy the corn as a side while serving up loaded guacamole with tortilla chips for a delightful appetizer and side pairing.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Combine it with a fresh and zesty cilantro lime rice to create a complete and flavorful dinner spread.
Baked Enchiladas
Skillet Mexican Street Corn makes an excellent companion to cheesy and saucy baked enchiladas for a hearty and harmonious meal.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Add grilled shrimp skewers for a surf-and-turf combination that perfectly complements the creamy corn.
