Mexican Street Corn Casserole, or “Elote Casserole,” is a delicious twist on a traditional dish that brings the authentic flavors of Mexican street corn right to your table. This dish features sweet corn mixed with creamy ingredients, cheesy goodness, and a hint of spices that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that everyone will love.
Why We Love This Mexican Street Corn Casserole Recipe
This Mexican Street Corn Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, and the reasons are plentiful. First, it combines the sweet, fresh taste of corn with the creamy textures of sour cream and mayonnaise, creating a rich and delightful taste experience. The addition of queso fresco adds a unique salty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn. Not to mention, it’s an effortless one-dish meal you can prepare in no time. You can enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course, making it incredibly versatile. In short, it’s a comforting dish that celebrates vibrant flavors while making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Ingredients about Mexican Street Corn Casserole
To whip up this mouthwatering casserole, ensure you have the following ingredients at hand:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 4 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup queso fresco cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional for topping)
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Casserole Directions
Creating your Mexican Street Corn Casserole is simpler than you might think. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown crust.
Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the corn, whether fresh or thawed if frozen, with sour cream and mayonnaise. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and inviting.
Now it’s time to bring in the flavors. Add the crumbled queso fresco cheese, the chopped cilantro, chili powder, garlic powder, and lime juice. These ingredients will elevate the dish to a new level, creating a beautiful medley of taste. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. It’s vital to taste as you go, ensuring you’ll end up with a well-balanced flavor.
After mixing everything together, pour the corn mixture into a greased baking dish. You want it to be evenly spread out for even cooking. If you love a cheesy top, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the mixture.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll notice that the casserole is ready when it’s golden brown on the top and bubbly around the edges. Once it comes out of the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This will help set the mixture, making it easier to serve. If you want, garnish with additional cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Casserole
Serving Mexican Street Corn Casserole is just as enjoyable as making it. This dish shines in any setting, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal with family. The casserole can be served hot right out of the oven, and it pairs beautifully with fresh salsa and tortilla chips for a true Mexican street feel.
You can also serve it as a side with grilled chicken, steak, or even tacos. The creamy corn flavor complements grilled meats perfectly. If you’re serving a large gathering, feel free to provide some topping options on the side. Consider offering additional cilantro, lime wedges, and even hot sauce for those who love a spicy kick. Your guests will love customizing their servings!
Expert Tips: Mexican Street Corn Casserole
To make your Mexican Street Corn Casserole truly special, here are some expert tips to keep in mind.
- Choose Fresh Corn: If it’s corn season, use fresh corn for the best flavor. Fresh corn kernels add a sweetness and pop that frozen corn may lack.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether. For more spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, pour it into the baking dish and bake as directed.
- Garnish: For a vibrant finish, consider adding jalapeño slices, additional queso fresco, or a drizzle of lime crema before serving.
- Creaminess: For extra creaminess, you can increase sour cream or mayonnaise. Just be cautious not to make it too runny.
How to Store Mexican Street Corn Casserole
Storing your Mexican Street Corn Casserole is straightforward. If there are leftovers, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. To do so, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Variation of Mexican Street Corn Casserole
The beauty of Mexican Street Corn Casserole lies in its versatility. Here are some variations to consider:
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, mix in cooked shredded chicken, ground turkey, or black beans. This will turn your casserole into a meal all on its own.
- Vegetarian Options: If you want a vegetarian twist, try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans for added nutrition and flavor.
- Vary the Cheese: While queso fresco is a staple, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterrey Jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Enhancement: Consider incorporating other herbs such as chopped green onions or even parsley for a change.
- Grilled Ingredients: For a smoky flavor, grill the corn before adding it to the mixture. This adds a wonderful charred taste to the dish.
FAQ
What is Mexican Street Corn Casserole?
Mexican Street Corn Casserole is a baked dish that takes the flavors of traditional Mexican street corn, combining corn with creamy ingredients and spices, creating a delightful side or main dish.
How long can I store Mexican Street Corn Casserole?
You can store leftover Mexican Street Corn Casserole in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months.
Can I make Mexican Street Corn Casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I add protein to Mexican Street Corn Casserole?
Yes, for a heartier meal, you can mix in cooked shredded chicken, ground turkey, or beans.
What are some serving suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Casserole?
Serve it hot as a side dish or main meal, paired with chips, fresh salsa, or grilled meats. Consider adding toppings like cilantro or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Mexican Street Corn Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups corn (fresh or frozen) Fresh corn is recommended when in season.
- 1 cup sour cream For extra creaminess, increase amount carefully.
- 1 cup mayonnaise Mix with sour cream for a creamy texture.
- 1 cup queso fresco cheese, crumbled Adds a unique salty flavor.
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped For garnish and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust spice level to preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Adds depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon lime juice Fresh lime juice is preferred.
- to taste none Salt and pepper Season to your preference.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional for topping) Use your favorite cheese for a topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn with sour cream and mayonnaise. Stir until well incorporated.
- Add crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro, chili powder, garlic powder, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Baking
- Pour the corn mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top if desired.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.
Serving
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.
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