Name: Mexican Street Corn Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 39 min
Total time: 49 min
Ingredients: 32 oz frozen corn (keep frozen); ⅔ cup real mayonnaise; ⅔ cup sour cream; 2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 8 oz queso fresco cheese (crumbled, divided in half); chopped fresh cilantro (topping)

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There’s something truly magical about sharing a hearty dish like Mexican Street Corn Casserole with loved ones. I remember the first time I made this delightful casserole for a summer barbecue. The aroma of the sweet corn mixed with the creamy sauce and spices filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in like a moth to a flame. As we sat down together, the laughter and stories flowed, and that casserole was wiped clean in minutes. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in. Whether you’re enjoying it with friends or savoring the leftovers for lunch, this dish always brings back warm memories and a sense of togetherness.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
49 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
39 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
9×13 baking pan, nonstick cooking spray

The Charm of This Mexican Street Corn Casserole

A Deliciously Unique Twist

What sets Mexican Street Corn Casserole apart from other casseroles is its vibrant flavors. The combination of sweet corn, creamy sauce, and a touch of spice creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. I love how every bite bursts with flavor!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This casserole is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or even a cozy family dinner. Whenever I make it, I know it will be a hit, no matter the occasion. Plus, it’s an excellent way to feed a crowd without spending all day in the kitchen!

Simple yet Satisfying Ingredients

The ingredients are simple but work wonderfully together. With just frozen corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, and spices, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. The addition of cheese gives it that extra creamy texture that everyone loves.

Make Ahead of Time

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare ahead of time. You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it, and pop it in the oven when guests arrive. This makes entertaining stress-free, allowing you to enjoy the company rather than worrying about the meal.

Customizable to Your Taste

Feel free to add your twist! Whether it’s extra spices or different toppings, Mexican Street Corn Casserole is flexible enough to accommodate your cravings. I often throw in jalapeños for an added kick or switch up the cheese based on what I have on hand.

Comfort Food at Its Best

At its core, this casserole exemplifies comfort food. There’s something about its creamy texture and rich flavors that make me feel at home. It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings all at once.

What Goes Into Mexican Street Corn Casserole

The ingredients in Mexican Street Corn Casserole come together beautifully, each bringing its own unique flavor and texture to the table. The star of the show is undoubtedly the sweet corn, which provides a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. The base of mayonnaise and sour cream creates a rich and tangy flavor that balances the sweetness, while spices like cayenne pepper add a touch of warmth. Top it all off with crumbled cheese and fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and you have a dish that’s not only delicious but also colorful and appealing.

32 oz frozen corn: Sweet and tender, this is the primary ingredient that gives the casserole its name and flavor. Make sure to keep it frozen until you’re ready to mix!
⅔ cup real mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and a rich flavor to the dish, making it indulgent and satisfying.
⅔ cup sour cream: The sour cream complements the mayonnaise perfectly, adding a tangy bite that balances the sweetness of the corn.
2 tsp cayenne pepper: This spice adds a kick to the casserole. Adjust according to your heat preference!
1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile, lending a savory depth to the dish.
1 tsp salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
8 oz queso fresco cheese: Crumbled and sprinkled throughout, this cheese adds a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Chopped fresh cilantro: This vibrant herb is a wonderful topping that adds freshness and brightness to the casserole.

Cooking Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Casserole

Cooking Mexican Street Corn Casserole is a straightforward process, and I promise it’s worth every step. It’s all about layering those flavors and letting them meld together beautifully in the oven. Let’s dive into the steps to get this delicious dish ready!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your 9×13 baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures that your casserole doesn’t stick to the pan and makes serving a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and half of the crumbled queso fresco cheese. This mixture is where all the magic begins, so make sure to mix it well until everything is combined.
Once mixed, pour the corn mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that every bite will have that delicious flavor.
Now it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in your preheated oven and let it bake for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly.
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining queso fresco cheese on top, along with the chopped fresh cilantro. The heat from the casserole will melt the cheese slightly, adding an irresistible finish.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to portion out. Serve hot and enjoy the wonderful flavors of Mexican Street Corn Casserole!

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient temperature matters: Using ingredients at room temperature helps them mix better and cook more evenly.
Greasing the pan is essential: It prevents sticking and ensures that you can serve perfect slices of the casserole.
Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado or different cheeses for a unique twist.
Let it sit before serving: Allowing the casserole to rest helps it set and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Feel free to get creative with Mexican Street Corn Casserole. Here are some tips to customize it to your liking:

Add protein: You can incorporate cooked chicken or black beans for a heartier dish.
Spice it up: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder.
Use different cheeses: While queso fresco is delicious, trying cheddar or pepper jack can add a new flavor dimension.
Change the corn: Fresh corn off the cob can be used instead of frozen for a fresher taste.
Top with avocado: Adding sliced avocado just before serving brings a creamy texture that complements the casserole.
Add a crunchy topping: Mixing crushed tortilla chips or cornflakes with some melted butter can create a delightful topping.
Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to play with spices and herbs to find your perfect flavor balance.

Accompaniments for Mexican Street Corn Casserole

Serving Mexican Street Corn Casserole is all about enhancing the experience with delicious accompaniments. Here are some great options:

Serve with a fresh salad: A light green salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
Pair with grilled meats: This casserole goes wonderfully with grilled chicken or beef, making for a satisfying meal.
Enjoy as a side dish: It makes a great side for barbecues, picnics, or potluck gatherings.
Seasonal pairings: During summer, serve alongside fresh fruits like watermelon or citrus salads to keep it light and refreshing.
Leftover magic: This casserole is just as tasty the next day. Reheat it in the oven or microwave for a quick meal!
Consider a taco night: Use it as a filling for tortillas, along with fresh toppings for a fun twist.
Top with lime juice: A squeeze of lime just before serving enhances the flavors and adds brightness.

FAQ

Mexican Street Corn Casserole is a delicious and creamy dish inspired by the popular Mexican street food known as elote. It combines sweet corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, spices, and cheese, baked together to create a comforting casserole. The flavors are a wonderful balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of spice, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Absolutely! One of the great features of Mexican Street Corn Casserole is its ability to be prepared in advance. You can assemble the casserole the day before, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply take it out of the fridge and bake it. This makes it perfect for parties and gatherings, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests instead of spending it in the kitchen.

Leftover Mexican Street Corn Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal. This casserole is just as tasty the next day!

This flavorful casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats, fresh salads, or even as part of a taco bar. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors complement many main dishes, making it a versatile side. You can also enjoy it on its own for a satisfying vegetarian meal!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mexican Street Corn Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the best of comforting flavors and vibrant ingredients. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for gatherings, and sure to be a hit with family and friends. I encourage you to try making it for your next meal; you won’t be disappointed!