Elote Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni
• 3 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups whole milk
• 0.5 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 0.5 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
• 0.5 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1 tsp chili powder or Tajín seasoning
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.

2. 2

   Heat a skillet over high heat. Add the corn kernels dry and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply charred and smoky. Remove from heat.

3. 3

   In a heavy saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbling and golden.

4. 4

   Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. 5

   Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

6. 6

   Stir the cooked pasta, half of the charred corn, Mexican crema, and lime juice into the warm cheese sauce until thoroughly combined.

7. 7

   Transfer to a serving skillet or dish. Top with the remaining charred corn, crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, fresh cilantro, and lime zest before serving.

The Story Behind Elote Macaroni and Cheese

Elote, the iconic Mexican street corn, has been served by street vendors across Mexico for generations, brushed with mayonnaise, chili, lime, and salty cotija cheese. Pairing these vibrant flavors with American macaroni and cheese creates a harmonious fusion of two beloved comfort food traditions. The combination celebrates cross-border culinary exchange, elevating humble ingredients into a rich and aromatic centerpiece dish.

Discover Elote Macaroni and Cheese

Aarón Sánchez

Chef Aarón Sánchez is celebrated for bringing authentic Mexican flavor profiles into modern American comfort dishes. His approach emphasizes highlighting traditional ingredients like tatemado corn and cotija cheese while maintaining simple, soul-satisfying cooking techniques.