If there’s one side dish that screams summer, it’s Mexican street corn, also known as “Elotes.” The creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy topping paired with charred, juicy corn on the cob is an irresistible combination. When I discovered that I could achieve that perfect, street-style flavor using my air fryer, I knew I had to share this recipe. It’s quick, mess-free, and delivers all the authentic flavors with minimal effort!
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, planning Taco Tuesday, or simply craving a flavorful side, this Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn is guaranteed to impress. It’s easy to customize to your spice tolerance and tastes just as delicious as what you’d find from a vendor on the streets of Mexico. Let’s dive in!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Fresh Corn on the Cob: The star of the show! Fresh, sweet corn is essential for the juiciest and most flavorful results. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels.
Mayonnaise: This is the creamy base that helps the toppings stick. It adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the corn.
Cotija Cheese: A crumbly, salty Mexican cheese that enhances every bite. If you can’t find Cotija, Parmesan is a good substitute.
Chili Powder: A sprinkle of chili powder brings a smoky, slightly spicy kick to the corn. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and brightens the overall flavor of the dish.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime over the finished corn gives it a tangy, citrusy zing. It’s an absolute must!
Butter: Melted butter is brushed on the corn before air frying, enhancing its natural sweetness and helping it caramelize.
Optional Toppings: Hot sauce, Tajín seasoning, or jalapeño slices are great additions for those who like extra spice and flavor.
Ingredients List
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
- 1/4 cup of crumbled Cotija cheese
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional: Tajín, hot sauce, or jalapeño slices
How to Make Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Corn
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, remove the husks and silk from the corn. Brush each ear of corn with melted butter, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
Step 2: Air Fry the Corn
Place the corn in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the kernels are slightly charred and tender.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
Once the corn is cooked, let it cool slightly. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over each ear. Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese and chili powder generously on top.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Finish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately and add optional toppings like Tajín or hot sauce if desired.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Choose fresh corn: Fresh corn is key to achieving the best texture and flavor. Frozen corn on the cob can work in a pinch but won’t have the same juiciness.
- Don’t skip the lime: The lime juice ties all the flavors together, so don’t leave it out!
- Customize the heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder or skip the hot sauce. For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne.
- Use a non-stick spray: If you’re worried about the corn sticking to the air fryer basket, give it a light spray with non-stick cooking spray before cooking.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen corn on the cob for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Thaw the frozen corn before cooking and pat it dry to ensure it caramelizes properly in the air fryer.
2. What can I use instead of Cotija cheese?
If Cotija isn’t available, Parmesan cheese or feta make excellent substitutes. They provide similar saltiness and texture.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo, butter with plant-based butter, and Cotija cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Mexican street corn is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.
5. Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like crumbled bacon, jalapeños, or a drizzle of crema for extra flavor.