🌽 Elote-Inspired Pasta: Creamy, Cheesy, and Packed with Flavor

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If you love Mexican street corn (elote), then get ready to fall hard for this Elote-Inspired Pasta! It’s like a summer street food fair in a bowl—sweet corn, tangy cotija, creamy sauce, and bold spices wrapped around tender pasta. The first bite is cheesy, smoky, buttery, and just a little spicy. In other words… totally addictive.

This dish is perfect when you want something a little different but still crave-worthy and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want to treat yourself to something epic, this is a flavor-packed twist worth trying!

❤️ Why You’ll Be Obsessed

  • Inspired by Elote: That classic Mexican street corn flavor but with a carby, cheesy twist.
  • Creamy & Comforting: Heavy cream, three cheeses, and a touch of sour cream make it silky smooth.
  • Easy Weeknight Dinner: Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry staples and frozen corn.
  • Customizable: Spice it up, add protein, or swap in gluten-free pasta!

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this pasta dream come true:

For the Pasta:

  • ½ lb pasta (elbows, rotini, or shells work great)
  • Salted water for boiling
  • Reserved pasta water (1 cup)

For the Corn Mixture:

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • Dash of olive oil
  • 15 oz corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • ½ onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp “Everything but the Elote” seasoning (Trader Joe’s or homemade)

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • ½ cup broth (we love @kettleandfire bone broth!)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp each: elote seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika

Cheesy Goodness:

  • ½ cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • Âź cup mozzarella
  • Âź cup cotija cheese (plus more for topping)

Finish It Off:

  • 1 tbsp sour cream
  • Handful of fresh parsley (or cilantro for extra flavor)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Elote-Inspired Pasta

This recipe comes together super fast, but tastes like you’ve been working on it all day. Let’s get into it!

1. Boil the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining—it helps bring the sauce together later.

2. SautĂŠ the Veggies

In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter with a splash of olive oil. Add your corn, diced onion, and garlic. Season with 1 tbsp of “Everything but the Elote” seasoning.

Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, and the corn is slightly golden. Your kitchen should smell amazing at this point!

3. Build the Sauce

Pour in the broth and stir to deglaze the pan. Then add the heavy cream and stir until combined. Season with your second round of spices: elote seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it gently simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

4. Melt in the Cheese

Now comes the magic. Stir in the shredded Mexican cheese blend, mozzarella, and cotija. Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is glossy and thick.

5. Add Pasta & Finish

Toss in the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir everything together until the sauce coats every piece beautifully. Then, add a spoonful of sour cream and a handful of fresh parsley for a final flavor boost.

6. Garnish & Serve

Top it all off with more cotija, corn, and fresh herbs. Bonus points if you squeeze a little lime on top and hit it with some chili flakes!

🌶️ Tips for Next-Level Elote Pasta

  • Add a Protein: Grilled shrimp, chicken, or chorizo would be chef’s kiss here.
  • Spice it Up: A few dashes of hot sauce or diced jalapeĂąo for heat lovers.
  • Fresh Corn Upgrade: If you’ve got fresh corn, grill it and cut it off the cob for extra smoky flavor.
  • Don’t Skip the Sour Cream: It adds a tangy zip that rounds out all the creamy richness.

🧊 Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes! You can prep the sauce ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, cook your pasta fresh, heat the sauce, and mix it all together.

🥗 What to Serve With It

  • Crunchy tortilla chips & guac
  • Simple side salad with lime vinaigrette
  • Fruit agua fresca or a light margarita

🔁 Fun Variations to Try

  • Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream and cheese, and skip the sour cream or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Baked Elote Pasta: Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly.
  • Street Corn Mac & Cheese: Add cooked macaroni and bake with a breadcrumb topping.

✨ Final Thoughts

Elote-Inspired Pasta is one of those dishes that makes your tastebuds dance! It’s cozy, rich, full of personality, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you’re a fan of street corn, pasta, or just really good food—this recipe checks all the boxes.

Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your new comfort food go-to. 🌽💛