Mexican Street Corn Casserole Recipe – A Creamy and Spicy Delight

March 29, 2025

Experience the ultimate Mexican Street Corn Casserole, a creamy and spicy delight that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico straight to your table. Start with sweet corn, and mix it with a rich blend of mayonnaise and sour cream. Layer in crumbled Cotija cheese and a splash of lime juice for that authentic tang. Don't skimp on the cilantro—its citrusy notes are transformative. Spice things up with chili powder and smoked paprika, then bake to perfection. Serve as a hearty side or a star dish at gatherings. Discover how to balance bold flavors and create magic in your kitchen.

Key Corn Casserole Components

essential corn casserole ingredients

A perfect Mexican street corn casserole hinges on a few key components that make the dish deliciously irresistible.

You need to focus on the right blend of flavors and textures. Start with these essentials:

  1. Sweet Corn: Use fresh or frozen kernels to guarantee a sweet, juicy base that bursts with flavor in every bite.
  2. Creamy Sauce: Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, or crema to create a rich, tangy coating that ties everything together.
  3. Cheese: Incorporate cotija or feta cheese for a salty, crumbly texture that complements the creaminess.
  4. Lime Juice: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the casserole before serving to add a revitalizing zing that balances the richness.

Use Fresh Cilantro Generously

Don't hold back on the fresh cilantro as it can really elevate the flavors of your Mexican Street Corn Casserole.

It balances the spice and herbs perfectly while adding a rejuvenating note. Plus, a generous sprinkle of cilantro makes for a beautiful garnish that enhances the dish's visual appeal.

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Enhance Flavor With Cilantro

Fresh cilantro can transform your Mexican street corn casserole from ordinary to extraordinary. Its vibrant, citrusy notes enhance every bite, elevating the dish to new heights.

When you sprinkle fresh cilantro generously, it infuses the casserole with an authentic Mexican flair, making each serving a delightful experience. You don't need to hold back—let the cilantro work its magic.

Chop the cilantro finely to release its full aroma and distribute it evenly throughout the casserole. The bright green leaves add not only flavor but also a pop of color that makes your dish visually appealing.

Consider adding cilantro both during cooking and as a garnish to maximize its fresh taste. Trust in cilantro to be your secret ingredient for an unforgettable dish.

Balance Spice and Herbs

Cilantro's vibrant touch is just one part of creating a harmonious Mexican street corn casserole. To achieve the perfect balance of spice and herbs, consider how each element complements the others.

Use fresh cilantro generously; its bright, citrusy flavor enhances the dish's overall taste. Spice is key, so add chili powder or cayenne pepper for a kick, but be careful not to overpower the herbs. Taste as you go to guarantee the right level of heat and depth.

Consider lime juice for a zesty contrast, and a bit of smoked paprika can add a rich, earthy note.

Garnish for Visual Appeal

A dish's visual appeal can greatly enhance the dining experience, and garnishing your Mexican street corn casserole is no exception. Fresh cilantro is your best friend in this culinary adventure. Not only does it add a burst of color, but it also brings a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the creamy and spicy elements of the casserole.

When you're ready to serve, sprinkle a generous handful of chopped cilantro over the top. This simple step transforms the casserole into an eye-catching masterpiece.

Don't be shy—cilantro's aromatic profile pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. It's more than just a garnish; it's an integral part of the dish's flavor profile. So go ahead, let cilantro steal the show.

Step-by-Step Instructions

detailed instruction guide

Mexican Street Corn Casserole Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven
    • Action: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Tools Needed: Oven.
    • Tip: Confirm the oven rack is in the middle position for even cooking.
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish
    • Action: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
    • Tools Needed: Baking dish, cooking spray or butter.
    • Tip: Use a paper towel to evenly spread the butter or spray across the dish.
  3. Cook the Corn
    • Action: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add corn kernels. Sauté until slightly charred.
    • Ingredients/Tools Needed: 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen), large skillet, spatula.
    • Tip: Stir frequently to avoid burning the corn. If using frozen corn, make sure it's thawed and drained.
  4. Mix the Ingredients
    • Action: In a large bowl, combine charred corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Ingredients Needed: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, juice of 1 lime, 1 teaspoon chili powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Tip: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as per your preference.
  5. Add Cheese and Jalapeños
    • Action: Stir in 1 cup of crumbled cotija cheese and 1 chopped jalapeño.
    • Ingredients Needed: 1 cup cotija cheese, 1 jalapeño.
    • Tip: For less heat, remove jalapeño seeds before chopping.
  6. Transfer to Baking Dish
    • Action: Pour the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
    • Tools Needed: Spoon or spatula.
    • Tip: Press down lightly with the back of the spoon to guarantee even distribution.
  7. Top with Cheese
    • Action: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of cotija cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
    • Ingredients Needed: 1/2 cup cotija cheese.
    • Tip: For a golden-brown crust, you can mix in some shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Bake the Casserole
    • Action: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
    • Tools Needed: Oven mitts.
    • Tip: Check the casserole at the 20-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
  9. Garnish and Serve
    • Action: Once baked, remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of chili powder before serving.
    • Ingredients Needed: Fresh cilantro, chili powder.
    • Tip: Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Gather Ingredients and Tools

To whip up a delicious Mexican Street Corn Casserole, start by gathering all the necessary ingredients and tools.

You'll need sweet corn, either fresh or frozen, and a mix of spices like chili powder, paprika, and cumin to give it that authentic kick. Grab some mayonnaise, sour cream, and cotija cheese for the creamy base, along with lime juice for a zesty touch.

Don't forget fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.

For tools, have a large mixing bowl, a sharp knife for chopping, and a baking dish ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and make sure you have a spatula for mixing.

These essentials will set you up for a perfectly combined and flavorful casserole.

[DIRECTIONS]:

Bake Until Golden Brown

Slide the prepared mixture into your preheated oven, setting the stage for a mouthwatering dish. Set your timer for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the casserole to bake until the top is a beautiful golden brown.

Keep an eye on it; you don't want to overcook and lose that perfect creamy texture. During baking, the cheese melts and bubbles, creating a savory layer on top. The corn will release its natural sweetness, mingling with the spices to create a tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen.

Once the timer goes off, check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to set before serving.

Enjoy!

Calorie Content and Serving Size

When enjoying a delicious dish like Mexican Street Corn Casserole, it's important to be mindful of its calorie content and serving size. This guarantees you savor every bite without overindulging. On average, a single serving of this casserole can contain around 250–300 calories. Knowing the serving size helps you balance your meal, especially if you're pairing it with other dishes.

Here's a quick overview:

Component Calories
Corn (1 cup) 140
Cheese (1/2 cup) 200
Mayo (2 tbsp) 180

Conclusion

You've just crafted a Mexican street corn casserole that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Remember, "the proof of the pudding is in the eating," so dig in and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness. With fresh cilantro adding a burst of flavor in every bite, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. Serve it up, knowing you've created something special that hits all the right notes. Your taste buds will thank you!