Creamy, zesty, crowd-pleasing
This Mexican street corn pasta combines everything you love about classic elote with tender pasta for a bold, creamy dish that’s perfect for summer dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Sweet corn, smoky spices, tangy lime, and creamy dressing coat every bite, while salty cheese and fresh herbs bring it all together. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and easy enough for busy weeknights—yet impressive enough for entertaining. If you’re looking for a fun twist on pasta salad with big flavor and minimal effort, this recipe delivers every time.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6
📝 Ingredients List
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned & drained)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, finely diced
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Wooden spoon or spatula
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly 🍝
- Prepare the corn:
- Fresh or frozen: Sauté in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes until lightly charred.
- Canned: Drain well and pat dry.
- Mix the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy 🌶️
- Combine: Add pasta, corn, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Toss until evenly coated.
- Finish: Gently fold in cotija cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning or lime juice ✨
- Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled. Garnish with extra cheese and cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- Make it smoky: Add a pinch of cumin or chipotle powder.
- Protein boost: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans.
- Make ahead: Refrigerate up to 3 days—add a splash of lime juice before serving.
- Serving idea: Pair with tacos, grilled meats, or serve as a stand-alone lunch.