Imagine biting into a luscious ear of corn, grilled to perfection, smothered in creamy goodness, and topped with a sprinkle of tangy cheese. Welcome to the world of Elote, or Mexican street corn, but hold onto your aprons because we’re taking it up a notch with this Elote Air Fryer Recipe. vegetarian quesadilla pairing The aromas wafting through your kitchen will have your neighbors knocking on the door, asking if they can join your corn fiesta.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen corn for this Elote Air Fryer Recipe?
- What toppings can I add to my elote?
- How do I know when the corn is done cooking?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This mouthwatering recipe is perfect for those summer barbecues or cozy movie nights at home. You know those moments when you’re debating whether to make popcorn or something more exciting? Well, this is your answer! With just a few ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you’ll have delicious elote that will leave everyone craving for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Elote Air Fryer Recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Enjoy a burst of flavors from sweet corn and zesty toppings that are visually stunning
- It’s versatile enough to be served as a side dish or a snack at gatherings
- Plus, it’s healthier than traditional methods without sacrificing taste!
I remember the first time I made elote for my friends; their eyes widened in disbelief as they tasted this corn delight!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Corn on the Cob: Choose plump ears with bright green husks for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayo for that creamy consistency that clings perfectly to the corn.
- Chili Powder: A dash of chili powder adds heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it here. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
- Cotija Cheese: Crumbled cotija gives an authentic touch with its salty, crumbly goodness.
- Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. colorful pasta salad option.
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these basics to elevate all those fabulous flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepping the Corn: Start by husking the fresh corn on the cob and removing any silk strands. Rinse under cold water. The clean ears will help all those flavors stick later!
Mixing the Topping Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy mixture is what makes this elote so irresistible!
Coating the Corn: Generously coat each ear of corn with the sauce using a brush or spoon. Get messy; that’s part of the fun! Make sure every inch is covered for maximum flavor!
Air Frying Time!: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated corn in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown and slightly charred.
Topping with Cheese and Cilantro: Carefully remove the corn from the air fryer and immediately sprinkle cotija cheese on top while it’s still warm. Finish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired.
Squeeze that Lime!: For an extra zing, drizzle more lime juice over each ear before serving. Your taste buds will thank you!
With this Elote Air Fryer Recipe in your kitchen arsenal, you’ll never look at corn on the cob the same way again. corn dogs for a fun meal It’s an explosion of flavors wrapped around tender kernels that’ll have everyone begging for seconds!
You Must Know
- Elote is a delightful Mexican street food that brings vibrant flavors to your table
- The air fryer makes it easy and mess-free, creating a charred, smoky taste without the need for a grill
- Enjoy it as a snack or side dish!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly cooked elote, start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. Cook the corn for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even charring.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your elote with different toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or even bacon bits. The options are endless and will give each ear a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover elote in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to revive its deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always soak fresh corn in water for about 30 minutes before air frying; it helps keep the kernels juicy
- Use cotija cheese for an authentic Mexican flavor that pairs perfectly with lime juice
- Don’t forget to sprinkle chili powder on top for an extra kick!
Creating this elote recipe reminded me of summer nights spent at local fairs, where corn on the cob was always my go-to treat. Those memories add delicious nostalgia to every bite.
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn for this Elote Air Fryer Recipe?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly if you use frozen corn.
What toppings can I add to my elote?
Try toppings like sour cream, cilantro, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
How do I know when the corn is done cooking?
Look for a nice golden-brown char; it usually takes about 10-12 minutes in the air fryer.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Elote Air Fryer Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Elote, the vibrant Mexican street corn, comes to life in this easy air fryer recipe. Imagine tender, golden corn coated with a creamy blend of mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder, topped with crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. This delightful dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy nights in, offering an explosion of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With minimal effort and ingredients, you can elevate your corn game like never before!
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (fresh)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Husk the corn and remove silk strands; rinse under cold water.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Generously coat each ear of corn with the mixture using a brush or spoon.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated corn in a single layer in the basket.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and slightly charred.
- Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle cotija cheese on top while warm; add cilantro if desired.
- Drizzle with extra lime juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (160g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
