Mexican Street Corn Casserole brings the vibrant flavors of elote to your dinner table in a creamy, cheesy baked dish. Packed with sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, tangy lime, and a blend of cheeses, this casserole is an irresistible side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or even on its own as a hearty vegetarian option.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2-3 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced green onions or extra cotija for topping

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and cream cheese until smooth.
3. Stir in the melted butter, lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the corn kernels, chopped jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled cotija cheese to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with chopped cilantro and optional sliced green onions or extra cotija cheese.
8. Serve warm as a side dish alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.

Nutrition Facts 

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Total Fat: 19 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg
• Sodium: 410 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Dietary Fiber: 3 g
• Sugars: 6 g
• Protein: 9 g

Flavor Profile and Texture

Mexican Street Corn Casserole is a rich combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The natural sweetness of fresh or roasted corn pairs beautifully with the smoky notes from paprika and the gentle heat of jalapeños. Creamy elements like mayonnaise, sour cream, and cream cheese provide a velvety texture that contrasts with the slightly crumbly cotija cheese on top. The result is a layered experience where each bite offers a balance of creaminess, spice, and savory richness, making it highly satisfying and indulgent.

Health Benefits

While indulgent, Mexican Street Corn Casserole can provide nutritional value. Corn is a good source of fiber, which aids digestion, and contains antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health. Jalapeños add a boost of vitamin C and capsaicin, a compound linked to anti-inflammatory and metabolism-enhancing properties. Cilantro contributes vitamins A, K, and C, along with minerals like potassium and manganese. Even the cheeses, while high in fat, provide calcium and protein, making the dish both delicious and nourishing when enjoyed in moderation.

Ingredient Variations

This casserole is versatile and can accommodate various ingredient swaps. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream, and reduced-fat cheeses can lower the calorie and fat content. Cotija cheese can be substituted with feta or Parmesan depending on availability and taste preference. For those who enjoy extra heat, roasted or pickled jalapeños can be added, while bell peppers provide sweetness without the spice. Corn can also be roasted or grilled before adding to the casserole for a deeper, smokier flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Street Corn Casserole pairs beautifully with a range of main dishes. It complements grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork, adding a creamy and spicy contrast. It also works well alongside tacos, enchiladas, or burrito bowls, providing a comforting side that balances robust flavors. For a vegetarian spread, it can be served with black bean dishes or a hearty quinoa salad. Garnishing with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or extra crumbled cheese before serving enhances both visual appeal and taste.

Pairings with Beverages

The casserole’s creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet profile lends itself to pairing with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. A crisp, cold lager or light Mexican beer complements the heat of the jalapeños while cutting through the richness of the cheese. Margarita cocktails, with their citrusy tang, enhance the lime and spice in the dish. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a splash of lime or a chilled iced tea balances the richness and provides a refreshing contrast.

Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures that this casserole remains flavorful and safe to eat. After baking, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience. For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, some cheeses may slightly change texture upon thawing, so topping with fresh cotija before serving is recommended.

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole is ideal for meal prep or hosting events. The mixture can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated, then baked just before serving. This allows flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. Ingredients like jalapeños, lime juice, and cheese can be added right before baking to maintain brightness and texture. Using a high-quality baking dish with even heat distribution ensures that the casserole cooks uniformly, preserving its creamy interior and lightly golden top.

Customization Ideas

Home cooks can easily customize the casserole to suit dietary preferences or taste cravings. For a vegan version, dairy alternatives such as cashew cream or vegan cream cheese can be used, and nutritional yeast can replace cheese to maintain a savory flavor. Adding roasted red peppers or sweet corn kernels enhances texture and visual appeal. Some may prefer extra spice, in which case finely diced serrano peppers or a dash of hot sauce can be incorporated. The dish’s flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of palates.

Cultural Context

Mexican Street Corn Casserole is inspired by traditional elote, a popular Mexican street food where corn is slathered with mayo, cheese, and spices. Translating this handheld snack into a baked casserole allows for communal serving, making it convenient for family meals and gatherings. The casserole maintains the essence of elote while introducing richer, creamier textures suitable for a hearty side dish. It celebrates Mexican culinary traditions while adapting them for modern kitchens.

Nutritional Considerations

While indulgent, there are ways to make this dish more balanced. Reducing the amount of mayonnaise or substituting with Greek yogurt lowers fat and calorie content, while still maintaining creaminess. Portion control is important, as the dish is rich in cheese and butter. Incorporating extra vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or zucchini, can increase fiber and nutrient content without compromising flavor. This makes the casserole adaptable for those mindful of calories, fat, or sodium intake.

Entertaining and Potluck Appeal

Mexican Street Corn Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for gatherings. Its vibrant colors, creamy texture, and bold flavors make it visually appealing and universally loved. It can be baked in advance and transported easily for potlucks or family events. The casserole’s versatility allows it to fit into casual or festive menus, pairing well with grilled meats, rice dishes, and salads. Its hearty and comforting nature ensures it will be requested again at future gatherings.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Casserole combines the best elements of flavor, texture, and visual appeal into a single dish. From its creamy, cheesy base to the sweet corn and zesty spices, every bite delivers a balanced experience. Its adaptability, nutritional potential, and ease of preparation make it suitable for both casual dinners and celebratory meals. By honoring traditional Mexican street corn flavors while embracing modern convenience, this casserole is a perfect example of comfort food that excites the palate and brings people together around the table.