Name: Mexican Street Corn Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz rotini (penne, or shells pasta); Water and salt (for boiling pasta); 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained); 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon cumin (optional); Salt and black pepper (to taste); ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 cup shredded cheddar (Monterey Jack, or Mexican cheese blend); Zest and juice of 1 lime; 1 clove garlic (minced); Optional toppings: crumbled feta or cotija-style cheese; Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley; Sliced green onions; Extra chili powder or paprika

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Experience a vibrant twist on classic pasta with this Mexican Street Corn Pasta, inspired by the beloved elote street food. This dish brings together tender pasta swirled in a luscious, creamy sauce bursting with smoky spices, fresh lime zest, and sweet corn kernels, delivering a fiesta of flavors in every bite.

The combination of zesty lime, rich cheese, and perfectly seasoned corn makes this pasta equally perfect as a satisfying main course or an exciting side dish to complement your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold and creamy flavors inspired by classic Mexican street corn for a unique pasta experience.
Easy to prepare with accessible ingredients perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Versatile dish that serves well as a main or side, adaptable with add-ins for protein or spice.

Ingredients

Rotini, penne, or shells (340 g / 12 oz): Choose your favorite shape; these hold creamy sauces well and provide a satisfying bite.
Water + salt, for boiling: Essential for properly cooking pasta and enhancing its natural flavor.
Corn kernels (2 cups): Fresh, frozen, or canned drained corn adds natural sweetness and texture.
Olive oil or butter (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté corn and blend spices, bringing richness and depth.
Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a delicate smoky warmth that echoes authentic Mexican flavors.
Chili powder (½ teaspoon): Provides mild heat and earthy spice to complement the corn.
Cumin (¼ teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle earthiness enhancing the overall spice profile.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Mayonnaise (½ cup): Creates a creamy base, giving the sauce a rich texture and tang.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (½ cup): Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the richness.
Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican cheese blend (1 cup): Melted cheese provides gooey, savory depth throughout the pasta.
Lime zest and juice (from 1 lime): Offers bright acidity and citrus aroma to enliven the dish.
Minced garlic (1 clove): Infuses subtle heat and fragrant flavor in the sauce.
Crumbled feta or cotija cheese (optional): Adds salty, crumbly texture for garnish that heightens authenticity.
Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional): Fresh herbs brighten the presentation and add freshness.
Sliced green onions (optional): Provide crispness and mild sharpness as a topping.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil to season the pasta from the start. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, ensuring a firm yet tender bite that will stand up to the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
Cook the Corn: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat to evenly toast the corn kernels. Add corn along with smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin if using, salt, and black pepper to infuse smoky and spicy flavors. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until corn is lightly golden and aromatic, deepening its sweetness and adding texture.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, lime zest and juice, and minced garlic until smooth and well combined. This creates a luxuriously creamy sauce with tangy brightness that brings all elements together in harmony.
Combine Everything: Add the warm cooked pasta and seasoned corn into the bowl with the creamy sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly, allowing the heat to gently melt the cheese and bind the textures. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to suit your preference.
Serve: Transfer the pasta to a serving bowl or individual plates. Top with crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a salty contrast, sprinkle fresh herbs for freshness, and add extra chili powder or smoked paprika if desired for a kick. Serve the dish warm or slightly cooled for optimal flavor and texture.

You Must Know

This pasta can be enhanced with protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans to turn it into a full meal.
To increase heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper according to taste.
For a lighter version, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt and slightly reduce the cheese amount without compromising creaminess.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to restore the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta alongside fresh green salads or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. It also works as a flavorful side with Mexican-inspired mains such as tacos, fajitas, or grilled meats.

Professional Tips

Use pasta shapes like rotini or shells that catch the sauce well, maximizing flavor in each bite.
Toast the corn and spices gently to bring out their smoky, earthy notes without burning.
Fresh lime zest and juice add essential brightness—don’t skip them, as they balance the richness perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn for this dish?: Yes, canned corn works well if drained properly; it adds sweetness and texture, though fresh or frozen corn gives a fresher taste.
What pasta types are best suited?: Rotini, penne, or shells are ideal because their shapes hold the creamy sauce and corn between pieces for great flavor distribution.
Can I make this recipe vegan?: To veganize, substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based versions and use vegan cheese alternatives.
Is it better to use sour cream or Greek yogurt?: Both work well; sour cream offers richer creaminess while Greek yogurt adds tang and lowers fat, depending on your preference.
How spicy is this pasta?: The spice level is mild and smoky by default but adjustable by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper to suit your heat tolerance.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?: Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days; stir gently before serving to recombine the sauce and pasta.