When you’re looking to make a quick and delicious side dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food right to your kitchen, Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn (Elote) is the answer. This easy-to-make dish combines sweet corn with creamy, spicy, and tangy toppings, creating a delightful explosion of taste with every bite. With a wonderfully charred exterior and an enticing aroma, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Trust me—you’ll want to try this one tonight!
What Is Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn?
Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn is a delightful twist on the classic Mexican street food, Elote, traditionally grilled on skewers and topped with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime. Using an air fryer elevates this dish by allowing you to achieve that perfect char and crunch without the hassle of outdoor grilling or boiling. This version is not only simpler but also healthier, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Plus, it transports you straight to a busy street market in Mexico, where the air is rich with the scent of spices and grilled corn.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn
- Convenient and Quick: No need for outdoor grilling—just toss it in the air fryer!
- Flavorful: The combination of spices and creamy toppings creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Customizable: Adjust the toppings to suit your taste buds (add more spice or switch out cheeses).
- Budget-Friendly: Corn is inexpensive, making this a great option for families or gatherings.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet corn with its bold flavor profile.
How to Make Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn
Quick Overview
This Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn recipe is simple and quick to prepare, offering an easy way to enjoy all the rich flavors of classic Elote right at home.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or parmesan)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Husk the corn and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the corn in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the corn has a charred appearance.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and half of the chili powder.
- Once cooked, remove the corn from the air fryer and slather on the mayo mixture. Sprinkle with Cotija cheese, remaining chili powder, and cilantro for garnish.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Balance the sweetness of the corn with savory proteins.
- Tacos: Perfect alongside chicken, beef, or veggie tacos for a festive meal.
- Salads: Pair it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Beverages: Serve with Mexican sodas, margaritas, or fresh fruit-infused water.
- Occasions: Great for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or Taco Tuesdays!
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn
- Substitutions: If you don’t have Cotija cheese, feta or parmesan works as a great replacement!
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to add more chili powder or a splash of hot sauce if you like it spicier.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Use the air fryer to reheat; it’ll help maintain the corn’s crispness.
- Equipment: Ensure your air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded for even cooking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Allow the corn to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Best when reheated in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 400°F.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked corn, but the texture may change once thawed.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen corn?: You can, but fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture.
- Is it spicy?: The spice level is adjustable based on your preference; feel free to omit chili powder if desired.
- Can I prepare it ahead of time?: You can grill or air fry the corn ahead of time and store it in the fridge, then top it right before serving.
- What about dietary adjustments?: Make it vegan by using vegan mayo and omitting the cheese or selecting a dairy-free alternative.
- How long does it take to cook?: Cooking time in the air fryer is approximately 10–12 minutes.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn is a delicious and easy recipe that will bring a delightful burst of flavor to your dinner table. Its simplicity and bold taste make it perfect for any occasion. Give it a shot tonight, and let me know how it turned out! Enjoy!
Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Husk the corn and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the corn in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the corn has a charred appearance.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and half of the chili powder.
- Once cooked, remove the corn from the air fryer and slather on the mayo mixture.
- Sprinkle with Cotija cheese, remaining chili powder, and cilantro for garnish.