Elote in a Cup: A Beginner-Friendly Mexican Delight
Who needs a cob when you can have all that bold elote flavor in a cup? This Elote en Vaso is creamy, cheesy, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy! Made with tender corn, cotija cheese, lime juice, and a touch of spice, it’s an easy and mess-free way to enjoy this Mexican street food favorite. Whether as a snack, side, or party treat, this dish will have everyone coming back for more. One cup is never enough—trust me!
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- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 20 oz super sweet frozen corn – You can use fresh corn on the cob if available, but frozen corn makes this recipe incredibly convenient and just as tasty.
- 3 tablespoons salted butter – If you prefer a lighter version, you can use unsalted butter or substitute with olive oil for a healthier alternative.
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise – For a dairy-free or lighter version, you could use Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayonnaise.
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro – Fresh cilantro is ideal for the authentic flavor of elote, but parsley can be used as a substitute if cilantro isn’t to your taste.
- 2 limes, cut into wedges – Limes provide a refreshing acidity to balance the richness of the butter and mayonnaise. If limes are unavailable, you can substitute with lemon.
- 1/2 teaspoon Tajín – This is a popular Mexican seasoning blend that combines chili, lime, and salt. If you prefer a milder spice, you can skip it or use paprika for a smoky flavor instead.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese – This gives the dish a creamy, cheesy finish. If you don’t have Parmesan, Cotija cheese (a crumbly Mexican cheese) is a great alternative.
- 1 ½ cups crushed Hot Cheetos – A fun and crunchy addition, these bring both texture and heat. You can use regular Cheetos or other types of spicy chips, but for authenticity, Hot Cheetos are highly recommended.
- Protein of your choice (Chicken or Beef) – If you’re switching out pork or ham for chicken or beef, I recommend grilled or sautéed chicken breast or ground beef for the best results.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Corn
Start by cooking your corn according to the package instructions. If you’re using frozen corn, simply heat it up on the stove or in the microwave. This process usually takes about 5–7 minutes. If you’re using fresh corn, you can grill or boil the kernels, though it will take a little longer.
Tip: Make sure the corn is fully cooked but not overcooked. Overcooked corn can become mushy, affecting the texture of the dish.
Step 2: Add Butter and Mix
Once the corn is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and add 3 tablespoons of salted butter. Stir the mixture until the butter has completely melted into the corn. The warmth of the corn will help the butter melt smoothly.
Note: If you’re using unsalted butter, be sure to taste and add a pinch of salt later to adjust the seasoning.
Step 3: Prepare the Cups
Grab your serving cups (or bowls, if you prefer) and add about ¾ cup of the cooked corn into each one. The corn should fill about halfway, depending on the size of your cup.
Step 4: Add the Mayonnaise and Stir
Now, take about 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise per cup and add it on top of the corn. Stir everything together until the corn is well-coated with the creamy mayonnaise. This adds richness to the dish and balances out the acidity of the lime.
Tip: If you prefer a lighter, less creamy dish, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or substitute it with a healthier alternative.
Step 5: Add Cilantro, Lime, and Tajín
Sprinkle a little chopped cilantro on top of the corn, then squeeze a lime wedge over the mixture. Add a couple of shakes of Tajín for that signature Mexican flavor, or adjust the seasoning to your taste. Stir again to ensure the cilantro, lime, and spice are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Top with Parmesan and Hot Cheetos
Now, for the fun part—top each cup of corn with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a creamy, savory note that complements the other ingredients. Finish off by adding crushed Hot Cheetos on top for a spicy crunch.
Note: If you’re using chicken or beef, this is a great time to add your cooked protein. Slice the chicken breast or add seasoned ground beef on top of the corn. This turns the dish into a full meal.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once all the cups are assembled, you’re ready to serve! These little cups of flavor are perfect for family gatherings, parties, or as a delicious side dish to complement your main course.
Notes
- Overcooked Vegetables: If your corn overcooks and gets too soft, there’s an easy fix! Drain excess moisture and stir in a bit more seasoning or spices to mask any flavor loss.
- Chicken or Beef Browning Quickly: If your chicken or beef is browning too quickly while cooking, lower the heat to ensure it cooks evenly throughout.
- Spice Level: Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less Tajín. You can also remove the Hot Cheetos if you prefer a milder dish.
- Efficiency in Prep: Prep your ingredients ahead of time. Chop the cilantro and get your limes and cheese ready before you cook the corn. This will make the process faster and more efficient.