Elote Style Microwave Corn (Print version)

Sweet corn on the cob dressed with creamy sauce, Cotija cheese, chili, and lime for a vibrant side dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Corn

01 - 4 ears fresh corn, husked

→ Sauce

02 - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
03 - 3 tablespoons sour cream
04 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

→ Cheese & Seasoning

05 - 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
06 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
09 - Lime wedges for serving

# How to Make It:

01 - Wrap each ear of corn in a damp paper towel and microwave all together on high for 5 to 6 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender. Allow to cool slightly.
02 - In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice, stirring until smooth.
03 - Carefully unwrap the corn and, while still warm, brush each cob generously with the sauce mixture.
04 - Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the coated corn, pressing gently to ensure it adheres.
05 - Dust with chili powder and smoked paprika, then garnish with chopped cilantro.
06 - Transfer to a serving platter and serve with lime wedges for squeezing.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 16 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Microwave cooking saves time while keeping corn juicy and tender.
  • Creamy, tangy sauce pairs beautifully with spicy chili powder and salty Cotija cheese.
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free, suitable for many diets.
  • Easy to customize with extra heat or substitutions.
02 -
  • Use fresh, crisp ears of corn for the best natural sweetness.
  • Don’t skip the lime juice; it brightens the sauce and balances the richness.
  • Adjust chili powder to your preferred spice level, starting with less and adding more to taste.
  • Press the Cotija cheese gently so it sticks well to the sauce-coated corn.
  • Try serving immediately while the corn is warm for maximum flavor and texture.
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