Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn

Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn Recipe — Tired of spending hours over a hot stove slaving away to make delicious Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elotes? Now, you can have it ready in minutes with this easy air fryer version. 

This is the perfect recipe for all the corn lovers who crave the warm, creamy flavor and crunchy texture of Mexican street corn but need an easier way to enjoy their favorite dish! This is a popular Mexican street food, that you can easily make in the air fryer basket or air fryer oven.

You aren’t going to want to miss out on my other air-fried veggie recipes. Here are some of our favorites: AIR FRYER ZUCCHINI BROWNIES, AIR FRYER BRUSSELS SPROUTS AND BACON, AIR FRYER AVOCADO FRENCH FRIES, and AIR FRYER LOW-CARB (KETO) EVERYTHING BAGEL ZUCCHINI CHIPS.

What Is Mexican Street Corn?

Mexican Street Corn is a popular street food in Mexico and has gained significant popularity in many other parts of the world. It’s traditionally made from grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy mixture and then sprinkled with chili powder and other seasonings. 

Why You’ll Love Making Mexican Street Corn In Air Fryer

• Great for entertaining
• Flavorful
• Easy
• Faster than grilling or using a slow cooker!
• Cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Mexican Corn

Here are the simple traditional ingredients you need to make this easy air fryer recipe:

Remember the step-by-step directions and the full recipe are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Fresh Ears of Sweet Corn: Fresh ear of corn provides a sweet and juicy base.
• Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Used to brush on the corn before air frying; this gives it a golden color and prevents it from drying out.
• Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy binder for the other toppings.
• Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a tangy contrast to the rich, creamy mayo.
• Mexican Cotija Cheese: A crumbly Mexican cheese, cotija is salty and adds a wonderful texture contrast. If you can’t find cotija, use cotija type cheese powder,
• Chili Powder: This spice provides a mild heat and smoky flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro (optional): Chopped cilantro adds a fresh, herby touch.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and balances out the other flavors.
• Garlic Powder (optional): For those who want a hint of garlic, a dash of garlic powder can complement the other seasonings beautifully.

How To Make Mexican Street Corn In Air Fryer

Below are the step by step directions, to make Mexican street style corn, that will rival any Mexican corn you will find in the streets of Mexico.

Step 1: Prepare The Corn

Preparation: Husk the ear of corn and remove the silk. Ensure the corn is clean and free of any leftover silk threads.

Brush: Lightly coat each corn ear with olive oil or melted butter using a pastry brush. This helps to give a nice color to the corn and prevents it from drying out in the air fryer.

Step 2: Air Frying

Air Frying: Place the corn ears into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Set the air fryer to 390 degrees F (200°C). Cook for about 12-15 minutes. Ensure you turn the corn every 3-4 minutes for cooking and coloring.

Step 3: Add Toppings

Mayonnaise Mixture: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, a squeeze of lime juice, a dash of garlic powder (if using), and a little salt. Adjust the seasoning as per taste.

Coat the Corn: Once the corn cobs are done, remove it from the air fryer. While it’s hot, brush each corn ear generously with the mayonnaise mixture. Sprinkle each mayonnaise-coated corn ear with crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. The corn is best served hot, with a lime wedge or hot sauce on the side for an additional zesty kick.

Note: You can adjust the amount of toppings based on your preference. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder. If you want it creamier, don’t hesitate to slather on more of the mayonnaise mixture.

Pro Tips For Cooking Mexican Street Corn Air Fryer

• Use Fresh Corn:  Use fresh corn on the cob for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen corn, thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
• Light Oil Coating: Lightly coat the corn with a small amount of olive oil or melted butter before air frying. This helps achieve a nice char and enhances the flavor.
• Even Seasoning: Season the corn with sea salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of chili powder before cooking. This ensures the flavors are well-distributed and the corn is flavorful throughout.
• Cooking Time and Turning: Cook the corn in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, turning the cobs halfway through. This helps achieve an even char and prevents burning on one side.
• Watch the Corn Closely: Keep an eye on the corn during the last few minutes of cooking. Air fryers can vary, and the corn can quickly go from perfectly charred to burnt.
• Prepare the Toppings: While the corn is cooking, mix together the traditional Mexican street corn toppings: mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest, or lime juice, and crumbled Cotija cheese. Fresh cilantro and a dash of chili powder or smoked paprika add extra flavor.
• Apply Toppings While Hot: Once the corn is done, brush it with the mayonnaise mixture while it’s still hot. This allows the flavors to meld better and the cheese to stick nicely.
• Serve Immediately: Serve the Mexican street corn immediately after topping to enjoy it at its best—hot, creamy, and bursting with flavor.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and toppings. Try adding a bit of garlic powder, feta cheese, lemon juice, smoked paprika, or a squeeze of lime juice for additional flavor.

Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen corn on the cob for Mexican street corn in the air fryer? Yes, you can use frozen corn on the cob. Make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure even roasting and prevent excess moisture.

What temperature should I set my air fryer to for cooking Mexican street corn?  Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for optimal results. This high temperature helps achieve a nice char on the corn.

How long does it take to cook corn on the cob in the air fryer? Cook the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. This ensures the corn is evenly cooked and charred.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking the corn? Yes, preheating the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes is recommended. Preheating ensures that the corn cooks evenly and gets the desired char.

What toppings are typically used for Mexican street corn? Traditional toppings include mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, crumbled Cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh cilantro. These toppings add a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor to the corn.

Can I use an alternative to Cotija cheese? Yes, if Cotija cheese is not available, you can use feta cheese as a substitute. Feta has a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor.

How do I apply the toppings to the corn? After the corn is cooked and while it is still hot, brush it with a mixture of mayonnaise and sour cream, then sprinkle with Cotija cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice.

Can I make Mexican street corn ahead of time? It is best to prepare and serve Mexican street corn fresh for the best flavor and texture. However, you can cook the corn ahead of time and reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the toppings.

How do I store leftover Mexican street corn?  Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.

What sides go well with Mexican street corn?  Mexican street corn pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, enchiladas, or as part of a barbecue spread. It complements many Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes:

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• AIR FRYER BACON SALTED CARAMEL DONUTS
• EASY AIR FRYER ZUCCHINI BROWNIES
• AIR FRYER BRUSSELS SPROUTS AND BACON
• AIR FRYER TRI-TIP STEAK RECIPE

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