Elote Casserole (Mexican Street Corn Casserole)
A creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed corn casserole inspired by classic Mexican street corn with cotija, lime, chili powder, and fresh cilantro.
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base
- 2 bags frozen sweet corn, thawed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp lime juice
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Equipment
Mixing bowl, spoon or spatula, half pan or casserole dish, knife, cutting board, oven or smoker
Chef Notes
For extra heat, add a second jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne. For a looser, creamier casserole, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream before baking. This dish is best served warm and works especially well on barbecue buffet lines.
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
Preheat the oven or smoker to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet corn, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Monterey Jack cheese, cotija cheese, diced jalapeño, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and creamy.
Build the Casserole
Lightly grease a half pan or casserole dish.
Transfer the corn mixture into the pan and spread it evenly.
Bake the Casserole
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until hot throughout and lightly bubbling around the edges.
If using a smoker, cook uncovered so the casserole picks up a light smoky flavor.
Finish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the heat and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
Top with the remaining cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and chili powder.
Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. Add a small splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, ribs, tacos, fajitas, or grilled meats. This casserole is a great side dish for graduation parties, backyard barbecues, and family-style catering menus.