Street Corn Elote Mac and Cheese

By: Maria
Posted: 05/23/2025

Street Corn Elote Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican Street food and classic comfort cuisine. Imagine Creamy Mac and Cheese enhanced with the zesty flavors of elote—a combination that strikes a perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing. In this captivating culinary journey, we’ll show you how to create this irresistible dish in your own kitchen.

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Growing up, my family often gathered for weekend barbecues where my mother would serve her signature elote as a side dish. Her elote was the highlight of our meals, winning over both family and friends with its rich, buttery taste. Inspired by these cherished memories, I decided to infuse those wonderful flavors into a classic mac and Cheese Recipe—a nod to those joyful gatherings right at our family table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the rich and comforting elements of mac and cheese with the uniquely vibrant flavors of elote. Not only does it bring together the best of both worlds, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The addition of fresh lime, cilantro, and a special blend of cheeses creates a dish that’s both tasty and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a festive gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients Notes

For an authentic taste, source fresh corn when possible—kernels should be vibrant and tightly packed. If unavailable, canned or frozen corn works well. Look for a mix of sharp cheddar and Cotija cheese, which provide the perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess. Don’t skip the tajin seasoning; it adds an essential hint of chili-lime zest. For those who prefer milder dishes, reduce the amount of chili powder.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in flour to create a roux and cook for another minute.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. This should take about 3 minutes. Lower the heat and incorporate shredded cheddar and Cotija cheese, allowing them to melt smoothly.

Step 4

Add corn, lime juice, tajin, and chili powder, mixing well. Fold in the cooked macaroni and stir until evenly coated with the cheese sauce.

Step 5

Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro and an extra sprinkle of Cotija cheese before serving.

Storage Options

Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw if necessary and warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring regularly until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to fit various dietary needs. Substitute gluten-free pasta for macaroni to accommodate gluten sensitivities. For a protein boost, add shredded chicken or cooked bacon. If you’re a fan of spice, consider incorporating jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings. Serve it as a main course for a cozy family dinner or as a standout side dish at picnics and potlucks. Pair it with a crisp, refreshing salad or grilled meat to round out your meal.

frequently asked questions

Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier version. Just ensure that the cheese melts smoothly to maintain the creamy texture.

How can I make this recipe vegan? To make a vegan version, substitute dairy milk with almond or soy milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What’s the best way to keep leftovers from drying out? When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to the macaroni to restore creaminess. Heat gently, stirring often, to ensure an evenly warmed dish.

This flavor-packed mac and cheese is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether evoking fond family memories or creating new ones, it’s a dish that brings joy and satisfaction to every gathering. Enjoy every cheesy, zesty bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Street Corn Elote Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this mac and cheese ahead of time. You can cook the macaroni and prepare the cheese sauce separately up to a day in advance. Store the cooked pasta and cheese sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine the pasta and sauce, add the corn and seasonings, and heat gently until warmed through. You can also assemble the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator, but the texture might be slightly altered; allow for extra time to reheat and stir in a splash of milk or broth.

What are some good ingredient substitutions for this recipe?

Absolutely! For the macaroni, you can substitute gluten-free pasta, such as elbow macaroni made from brown rice or corn. For the cheese, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile, or a dairy-free cheese alternative. If you don’t have Tajin, you can substitute a mix of chili powder, lime zest, and a pinch of salt. For a protein boost, consider adding shredded chicken or cooked bacon.

How do I know when the Street Corn Elote Mac and Cheese is perfectly cooked?

The dish is perfectly cooked when the macaroni is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente), the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy, and the corn is heated through. Visually, the sauce should coat the macaroni evenly. Aromatic cues include the fragrant garlic and the zesty aroma of lime and Tajin. You can test the doneness by tasting a spoonful to ensure the flavors have melded and the pasta is cooked to your liking. The internal temperature doesn’t need to be checked, as this is a stovetop dish.

Can I double or scale up this recipe for a larger gathering?

Yes, you can easily scale up this recipe. Simply double or triple the ingredients proportionally. When doubling, you may need to use a larger skillet to accommodate the increased volume. Be sure to increase the cooking time slightly, particularly for the roux and the cheese sauce. Make sure your pot is large enough to hold the doubled amount of macaroni and sauce. Adjust seasonings to taste, and be prepared to stir more frequently to prevent sticking.

What is the nutritional value of this Street Corn Elote Mac and Cheese?

This mac and cheese offers a blend of nutrients. The corn provides fiber and some vitamins, while the cheese contributes calcium and protein. The milk adds calcium and vitamin D. The recipe also contains carbohydrates from the pasta and fats from the butter and cheese. While it’s a comforting dish, be mindful of portion sizes due to the richness of the cheese and butter. Consider adding a side of vegetables for a more balanced meal.