If you’ve ever fallen in love with the bold, smoky, and zesty flavors of Mexican street corn (elote), this recipe is sure to excite you. We’re taking all the best parts of this beloved street food—charred corn, creamy cheese, lime, and a kick of spice—and combining them with tender, roasted potatoes for the ultimate side dish or snack. Imagine crispy, golden potatoes coated in a flavorful sauce, topped with cheese, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder. This dish is hearty, bursting with flavor, and easy to make—perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Mexican Street Corn Potatoes merge the comforting warmth of roasted potatoes with the vibrant tangy-spicy flavors of elote. It's an impressive yet simple dish that brings people together at the table. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats, serving it up as a party appetizer, or just enjoying it solo, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time.
Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the potatoes:
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes (or russet potatoes cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the street corn topping:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For garnishing:
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese, as a substitute)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- Extra chili powder (for sprinkling)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Roast the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the edges.
Prepare the Corn
- While the potatoes roast, melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and sauté for 5–7 minutes. If you want that classic “charred” flavor, allow the corn to sit undisturbed in the pan for a minute or two before stirring.
- Once the corn is golden and slightly smoky, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
Make the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir in the sautéed corn until evenly coated.
Combine and Serve
- Arrange the roasted potatoes on a serving platter or dish. Spoon the creamy, seasoned corn mixture over the potatoes.
- Top with crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder for extra color and flavor.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
Tips for Customization
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, toss in some shredded chicken, cooked chorizo, or even grilled shrimp.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives, and use a vegan cheese substitute.
- Spice It Up: Amp up the heat with extra cayenne pepper or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
- Swap the Potatoes: Sweet potatoes or even crispy russet potato wedges can work beautifully for a sweeter or crunchier base.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican Street Corn Potatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them:
- Alongside grilled skirt steak or chicken for a Mexican-inspired dinner.
- As a fun, finger-friendly appetizer at game nights or parties.
- With a fresh green salad for a lighter meal that still feels indulgent.
Why It’s a Must-Try
This recipe proves that potatoes can be so much more than a side dish. The combination of crispy, golden potatoes with the tangy, creamy corn topping offers a flavor-packed experience. It’s a dish that’s easy to make yet feels special enough to impress guests. Inspired by the vibrant street food culture of Mexico, these potatoes bring exciting flavors straight to your kitchen.
Give them a try and get ready for an explosion of flavor in every bite!
Post a Comment