Skillet Creamed Street Corn is the perfect recipe to bring bold, creamy, and comforting flavors straight to your table. Inspired by the classic Mexican street corn known as elote, this dish takes a skillet approach for easy preparation while still delivering all the rich, zesty flavors you love. The sweetness of corn combines beautifully with smoky spices, creamy cheeses, and a splash of fresh lime juice, making every bite irresistible.
What makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can serve it as a side dish with grilled meats, spoon it over tacos, or simply enjoy it warm with tortilla chips. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in just one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy.
Interestingly, esquites, the Mexican street-style version of creamed corn, has been enjoyed for generations at food stands across Mexico. This skillet version brings that same vibrant street flavor into your home kitchen with a creamy twist.
Recipe Yield: 6 servings
INGREDIENTS
4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
1 jalapeño, finely diced (seeded for less heat)
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Sauté the base:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the corn and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden.
2. Build the flavor:
Stir in jalapeño and garlic, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, blending well.
3. Make it creamy:
Lower the heat. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add final touches:
Remove from heat. Stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro. Sprinkle with extra cotija before serving.
5. Serve and enjoy:
Transfer to a serving dish or serve directly in the skillet for a rustic presentation. Best served warm with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a side.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Char the Corn: For a smoky flavor, roast or grill the corn before cutting it off the cob.
- Adjust the Heat: Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne if you love extra spice.
- Balance the Creaminess: If too thick, splash in a bit of milk; if too thin, let it simmer until reduced.
Also Popular
Oven Perfect Bacon
If you’ve ever wondered how to make bacon that’s perfectly crispy every time, look no further. Our Oven Perfect Bacon...
Country Fried Squash
If you’re craving a crispy, savory side dish that’s easy to make and loaded with flavor, look no further than...
Best 3-Ingredient Avocado Toast
Avocado toast has taken over breakfast menus everywhere, but why spend extra when you can make the Best 3-Ingredient Avocado...
Creamy Cottage Cheese Lasagna
Lasagna lovers, get ready for a creamy, cheesy twist on a classic favorite! This Creamy Cottage Cheese Lasagna is packed...
Boston Cream Pie
Boston Cream Pie is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. With its soft, buttery sponge cake,...
Crispy Roasted Potatoes & Onions
There’s nothing quite like the perfectly crispy, golden-brown potatoes fresh from the oven. And when you add sweet, caramelized red...
Be the first to comment
Cooked it? 🍳 Loved it? ❤️ Changed it up? 🔄 Your opinion matters! Log in with Google or Facebook using the button below, share your foodie adventure, and let’s make cooking even more fun together! 🎉