Quick Skillet Street Corn

Name: Quick Skillet Street Corn
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 (15.25-ounce) cans corn, drained; 2 tablespoons butter; Kosher salt to taste; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1-2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 teaspoons chili powder, divided; Cotija cheese, crumbled (for topping); Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Published: June 3, 2025

by Olivia

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A quick and easy version of classic Mexican elote, Quick Skillet Street Corn is perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings alike. This delightful dish combines charred corn with a creamy sauce, cotija cheese, and a hint of spice, all ready in just 13 minutes! Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement your meal or a flavorful snack, this recipe is sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 13 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for those short on time.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of charred corn, creamy mayonnaise, and zesty lime juice creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with tacos, grilled meats, or enjoy it as a standalone snack at any gathering.
Easily Adaptable: You can customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding other toppings like avocado or jalapeños.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and appealing presentation, it’s sure to be a hit at parties or family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make Quick Skillet Street Corn, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these items will ensure that your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron skillet
Mixing bowl
Spoon or spatula
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Cast iron skillet: Perfect for achieving that desirable char on the corn due to its excellent heat retention.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
Spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring the corn while it cooks and mixing ingredients together seamlessly.

Ingredients

A quick and easy version of classic Mexican elote made in a skillet with charred corn, creamy sauce, cotija cheese, and a hint of spice. Ready in just 13 minutes!

For the Corn Mixture

3 (15.25-ounce) cans corn, drained
2 tablespoons butter
Kosher salt to taste

For the Creamy Sauce

3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1-2 tablespoons lime juice
2 teaspoons chili powder, divided

For Topping

Cotija cheese, crumbled
Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

How to Make Quick Skillet Street Corn

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat. Add the drained corn to the hot skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn begins to char and develop golden brown spots.

Step 2: Add Butter and Salt

Remove the skillet from heat and add the butter along with a pinch of kosher salt. Stir until the butter is completely melted and coats all corn kernels evenly.

Step 3: Mix in Creamy Ingredients

Transfer the corn to a mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise, lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 4: Serve with Toppings

Transfer to a serving dish. Top with crumbled cotija cheese, the remaining teaspoon of chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately while still warm or at room temperature if preferred.

How to Serve Quick Skillet Street Corn

Quick Skillet Street Corn is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just having a casual dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Tacos

Corn Tacos: Use warm tortillas filled with this skillet corn for a delicious twist on traditional tacos.
Fish Tacos: Pair with grilled fish for a refreshing and tasty combo.

Salads

Corn Salad: Incorporate the corn into a fresh salad with avocados, tomatoes, and lime vinaigrette.
Green Salad: Top mixed greens with Quick Skillet Street Corn for added flavor and texture.

Dips

Corn Dip: Blend the corn mixture into a creamy dip served with tortilla chips for snacking.
Guacamole Side: Serve alongside guacamole to complement the flavors.

Entrees

Grilled Chicken: Serve the corn as a side dish to juicy grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
Steak Fajitas: Pair with sizzling steak fajitas for an authentic Mexican feast.

How to Perfect Quick Skillet Street Corn

To ensure your Quick Skillet Street Corn turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that desirable charred flavor in the corn.
Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh lime juice and high-quality cotija cheese for the best taste.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the chili powder based on your spice preference—more for heat or less for mildness.
Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined for consistent flavor in every bite.
Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm; serve it immediately after preparation.
Garnish Creatively: Experiment with toppings like avocado or diced jalapeños to customize your dish even more.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Skillet Street Corn

Quick Skillet Street Corn pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

Black Beans: A protein-rich side that complements the sweetness of corn beautifully.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes an excellent base alongside the street corn.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa provide a satisfying contrast in textures.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection enhance the meal’s freshness and flavor.
Elote Fries: Crispy fries topped with similar flavors as street corn create a fun fusion dish.
Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with peppers or chicken make a comforting addition to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Quick Skillet Street Corn, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the charring step: Charring the corn enhances its flavor and texture. Always cook it until you see golden brown spots for the best taste.
Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or mayonnaise can clump. Let them reach room temperature before adding them to ensure a creamy consistency.
Overcooking the corn: Cooking the corn too long can make it tough. Aim for 8-10 minutes on high heat for optimal results.
Neglecting seasoning: Not adding enough salt or lime juice can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
Forget garnishes: Cotija cheese and cilantro add richness and color. Don’t skip these toppings for an authentic experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Quick Skillet Street Corn in an airtight container.
It will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Quick Skillet Street Corn

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months; make sure to remove excess air.

Reheating Quick Skillet Street Corn

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread corn on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring between intervals.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Quick Skillet Street Corn:

What is Quick Skillet Street Corn?

Quick Skillet Street Corn is a simplified version of traditional Mexican elote made directly in a skillet, featuring charred corn mixed with creamy sauce and spices.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh corn can be used but will require more cooking time to achieve that charred flavor.

Is Quick Skillet Street Corn spicy?

The spice level is adjustable based on your preference. Use less chili powder if you prefer milder flavors.

How can I customize Quick Skillet Street Corn?

You can add ingredients like jalapeños for heat, garlic powder for depth, or even different cheeses according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

Quick Skillet Street Corn is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavors that evoke street food from Mexico. This dish is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or toppings. Whether as a side dish or a snack, give this recipe a try!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!