Mexican Street Corn Casserole is a delightful twist on the traditional Mexican street food known as “elote.” This dish combines the vibrant flavors of grilled corn, creamy sauces, tangy cheese, and zesty spices into a comforting casserole that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients:
- 5 to 6 ears fresh corn, shucked and kernels cut from the cobs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons canned chipotle in adobo
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- Pinch of kosher salt
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- 6 ounces Cotija cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup sliced scallions
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, sour cream, mayonnaise, canned chipotle in adobo, chili powder, garlic salt, a pinch of kosher salt, a pinch of freshly ground black pepper, and 3 ounces of the crumbled Cotija cheese.
Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Pour the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling.
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Garnish the top with sliced scallions, chopped fresh parsley, and the remaining 3 ounces of crumbled Cotija cheese.
For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle with chipotle cream if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
FAQs:
Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh corn?
Yes, you can substitute fresh corn with frozen or canned corn. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s thawed and drained. For canned corn, drain and rinse the kernels before using them in the recipe.
What can I use as a substitute for Cotija cheese?
If Cotija cheese isn’t available, you can use queso fresco or feta cheese as substitutes. Both provide a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor that complements the dish.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the casserole?
To reduce spiciness, decrease or omit the canned chipotle in adobo and chili powder. For more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, wrap it securely, and freeze for up to one month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.
This Mexican Street Corn Casserole brings the authentic flavors of elote to your table in a convenient and shareable form, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
