Creamy Mexican Street Corn Cups (Easy Elote in a Cup)

If you love bold, vibrant flavors, these Creamy Mexican Street Corn Cups are about to become your new favorite side dish. Inspired by traditional Mexican street corn (Elote), this easy “corn in a cup” version delivers everything you love — sweet corn, creamy sauce, tangy lime, crumbly cheese, and a hint of chili — all in a convenient, mess-free serving.

Perfect for summer cookouts, taco nights, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this recipe is quick, customizable, and absolutely packed with flavor.

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What Is Mexican Street Corn in a Cup?

Traditional Elote is grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime. The cup version — often called esquites — removes the corn from the cob and serves it warm in individual cups with the same bold toppings.

This recipe brings those authentic flavors into a simple, easy-to-make dish that’s ready in about 20 minutes.

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Why You’ll Love These Creamy Mexican Street Corn Cups

• Quick and easy (ready in under 30 minutes)
• No grill required
• Perfect for parties and gatherings
• Customizable spice level
• Can be made with fresh, frozen, or canned corn

They’re creamy, tangy, slightly spicy, and completely addictive.

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Ingredients

• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned & drained)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1–2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra lime wedges for serving

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Corn

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add corn and cook for 5–7 minutes until heated through and slightly golden.

Tip: If using fresh corn, cook until tender with light char for extra flavor.

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Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, combine:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Garlic
• Lime juice
• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Salt

Mix until smooth and creamy.

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Step 3: Combine

Add the warm corn to the sauce and stir until fully coated.
Fold in most of the cotija cheese, reserving some for garnish.

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Step 4: Assemble the Cups

Spoon the mixture into serving cups.
Top with:

• Extra cotija cheese
• A sprinkle of chili powder
• Fresh cilantro
• A squeeze of lime

Serve warm and enjoy!

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Flavor & Texture Profile

• Sweet corn base
• Creamy, tangy sauce
• Salty, crumbly cheese
• Bright citrus finish
• Mild heat from chili powder

The balance of sweet, creamy, salty, and spicy makes this dish incredibly satisfying.

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Variations

Spicy Street Corn Cups

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Grilled Version

Char fresh corn on the grill before cutting it off the cob for deeper smoky flavor.

Lightened-Up Version

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light mayo.

Cheesy Upgrade

Mix in shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for extra meltiness.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of lime juice before serving to refresh the flavor.

Freezer

Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate.

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Tips for Perfect Mexican Street Corn Cups

• Don’t overcook the corn — it should stay slightly crisp.
• Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
• Crumble cheese finely for even distribution.
• Adjust chili powder to your spice preference.

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Serving Ideas

These creamy corn cups pair beautifully with:

• Tacos (chicken, beef, or shrimp)
• Grilled meats
• Quesadillas
• Burrito bowls
• BBQ dishes

They also work wonderfully as a standalone party appetizer served in small cups with spoons.

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Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately.
Warm the corn just before serving and combine for the freshest taste.

For parties, assemble in small clear cups for an attractive, easy-to-serve option.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned corn?

Yes. Drain and rinse it well before cooking for best results.

What cheese is closest to traditional flavor?

Cotija is traditional, but feta works well if cotija isn’t available.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free mayo and sour cream substitutes and skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

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Why This Recipe Works

The combination of:

• Warm, sweet corn
• Rich, creamy sauce
• Bright lime juice
• Salty cheese
• Mild chili heat

…creates a perfectly balanced dish that hits all flavor notes — sweet, salty, creamy, tangy, and spicy.

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Final Thoughts

Creamy Mexican Street Corn Cups are a bold, flavorful, and easy dish that brings authentic street food flavor to your kitchen without the fuss of grilling whole cobs. Whether you’re serving them at a summer cookout or alongside taco night, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.

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