Name: Creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil); 1 cup red onion, chopped (or shallots as alternative); 1 medium jalapeño, diced (adjust quantity based on spice preference); 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic preferred); 1 pound chicken breasts, diced (can swap with chickpeas for vegetarian option); 2 cups fire-roasted frozen corn (fresh grilled corn recommended); 1 can diced green chiles (use mild or hot based on preference); 2 teaspoons Tajín seasoning (or chili powder and lime zest mix); 1 teaspoon ground cumin (no direct substitute); 1 teaspoon chile powder (adjust to taste); to taste table salt and black pepper (consider using sea salt or Himalayan salt as alternatives); 4 cups chicken stock (low-sodium options available); 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for thicker texture); 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (or cheddar for different taste); 1 tablespoon lime juice (can substitute with lemon juice); 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (or parsley for those who dislike cilantro); 1/2 cup queso fresco, crumbled (or feta cheese as substitute)

As the aroma of roasted corn wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia for summer nights spent at food stalls. This Creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup captures that vibrant essence of elote, offering a warm, hearty embrace in every spoonful. With its smoky sweetness and zesty creaminess, this soup not only serves up comfort food at its finest, but it’s also a quick dinner solution, ready in just under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or entertaining friends, this delightful dish promises to be a showstopper. So, why not treat yourself to a comforting bowl that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Southern California? Are you ready to dive into these bold flavors?

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: This creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup brings the cozy flavors of elote to your table, perfect for chilly nights.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your choice of protein or make it a vegetarian delight by swapping in chickpeas or black beans.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, serve it alongside tortilla chips or fresh salad, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Nostalgic Flavors: Evokes memories of summer nights and street food, making every bowl a comforting experience. Don’t miss out on trying out other delightful recipes like Mexican Street Corn and Summer Corn Salad for even more delicious inspiration!

Mexican Street Corn Soup Ingredients

For the Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and is used for sautéing; substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
• Red Onion – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; shallots can be used as an alternative.
• Jalapeño – Adds heat; adjust quantity based on spice preference; use sweet bell pepper for a milder flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor; fresh garlic is preferred; avoid powdered when possible.
• Chicken Breasts – The base protein; creates a hearty soup; can swap with chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Fire-Roasted Frozen Corn – Gives a charred, smoky taste; fresh grilled corn or canned corn can be used, but fresh yields better flavor.
• Diced Green Chiles – Adds a kick; can use mild or hot based on preference; green bell peppers could substitute for less heat.
• Tajín Seasoning – Brings zesty lime and chili flavor; for a similar taste, use a mix of chili powder and lime zest.
• Ground Cumin – Provides an earthy flavor; essential for depth; no direct substitute, though curry powder can be a non-traditional alternative.
• Chile Powder – Enhances spiciness; adjust to taste; paprika can be used for a milder option.
• Table Salt and Black Pepper – Basic seasonings for flavor enhancement; consider using sea salt or Himalayan salt as alternatives.
• Chicken Stock – Acts as the soup’s base; low-sodium options available; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.

For the Creamy Elements
• Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang; can use Greek yogurt for a thicker texture; dairy-free alternatives are available for lactose intolerance.
• Monterey Jack Cheese – Provides a creamy texture and flavor; swap with cheddar or a dairy-free cheese for a different taste.
• Lime Juice – Adds acidity and brightness; lemon juice is a good substitute.

For Garnishing
• Cilantro – Fresh herb garnish offering a fresh flavor; parsley may be used for those who dislike cilantro.
• Queso Fresco – Crumbled topping for added flavor and texture; feta cheese can serve as a substitute.

This Mexican Street Corn Soup is sure to warm your heart and nourish your soul—please enjoy every delightful spoonful!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 chopped red onion and 1 diced jalapeño, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Once the onion turns translucent, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds until the garlic is aromatic and slightly golden.

Step 2: Add the Main Ingredients
Next, stir in 1 pound of diced chicken breasts, 2 cups of fire-roasted frozen corn, and 1 can of diced green chiles. Season your mixture with 2 teaspoons of Tajín, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes. This simmering process will tenderize the chicken and infuse the soup with a rich, cohesive flavor reminiscent of classic Mexican street corn.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the soup, stirring gently to mix well. Allow the chicken to warm back up for a couple of minutes while continuing to simmer the soup.

Step 5: Incorporate Creaminess
To elevate the soup’s texture, stir in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and the juice of 1 lime. Mix everything thoroughly and let it simmer on low heat for an additional 3 minutes. The cheese should melt, creating a luscious, creamy consistency in your Mexican Street Corn Soup.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled queso fresco, additional lime wedges, and freshly chopped cilantro. Highlight the vibrant colors and flavors, turning each bowl into a comforting, satisfying meal ready to be enjoyed. Serve hot and savor the deliciousness!

Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn Soup

Grill for Flavor: Char the corn on a grill if possible. This enhances the smokiness, elevating your Mexican Street Corn Soup’s flavor profile.
Adjust Spice Wisely: Start with half of the jalapeño and chili powder. You can always add more later to suit your heat preference without overwhelming the dish.
Dairy-Free Options: For a vegan version, substitute sour cream with cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth. This ensures creaminess without the dairy.
Canned Corn Care: If you opt for canned corn, be sure to drain it thoroughly. Excess liquid could dilute the flavors and affect the soup’s texture.
Freshness Counts: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible for the best results, especially with the lime juice and cilantro that brighten the entire dish.
Make it Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep without losing its comforting charm.

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Street Corn Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the onions, jalapeños, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cook the chicken and assemble the soup components up to 3 days ahead, simply refrigerating everything separately to preserve flavors and textures. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the soup base on the stove, stir in the creaminess with sour cream and cheese, and garnish with fresh cilantro before diving into this comforting bowl of joy. Enjoy a nutritious meal made easy!

Mexican Street Corn Soup Variations

Feel free to play around and make this delicious soup your own with these fun ideas for variations and substitutions!

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for chickpeas or black beans. Elevate the dish by adding colorful veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
For a delightful twist, try blending in roasted butternut squash; it complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace sour cream and cheese with cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth. Find the right texture and taste that fits your needs while keeping the soup creamy.
Delivery of flavor doesn’t need to sacrifice comfort, and your guests won’t even know it’s dairy-free!
Smoky Fresh Corn: Use grilled, fresh corn instead of frozen for an extra layer of smokiness. The char adds depth to your Mexican Street Corn Soup that is simply irresistible.
Think of those summer barbecues, and bring that flavor right into your cozy bowl!
Heat Adjustments: Scale up or down the jalapeño and chili powder to suit your taste for spice. If you prefer a milder option, mix in sweet bell peppers for extra crunch without the heat.
Everyone’s palate is unique, so cater to your crowd for the best enjoyment!
Zesty Lime Variation: Add a splash of fresh orange juice along with the lime juice for a citrusy twist. This brightens the flavors and adds a unique sweetness to each bite.
It’s a refreshing way to surprise your taste buds!
Cheesy Alternatives: Swap out Monterey Jack cheese for a tangy goat cheese or a sharp cheddar. Each option lends a different but delightful flavor profile to your soup.
Cheese lovers will appreciate the extra texture and depth it brings to every spoonful!
Add More Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the final simmer for a healthy boost. These greens add a beautiful pop of color and additional nutrients without taking away from the creamy goodness.
It’s an easy way to sneak in more veggies into your meal!

Don’t forget to explore complementary recipes like our Creamy Mushroom Soup Indulge or for something refreshing, try the Summer Corn Salad. Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; ensure the soup cools to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup for up to 3 months; consider leaving out the sour cream and cheese until you reheat it for best texture.

Reheating: When warming, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tip: Adding a splash of chicken stock while reheating can help restore the creamy consistency and enhance the flavors.

What to Serve with Creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup

As you savor each warm spoonful of this delicious soup, consider these delightful pairings to create a memorable meal.

Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping and adding a satisfying crunch, enhancing the creamy soup experience with a contrasting texture.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad, brimming with crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette, provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread muffins are an ideal side, soaking up the flavorful broth while adding comforting warmth to your meal.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices, sprinkled with lime juice and sea salt, enhance the savory flavor profile of the soup, creating a delightful harmony.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: Bringing in the same flavors, this colorful salad features charred corn, lime, and cilantro, tying the meal together beautifully.
Pineapple Agua Fresca: This refreshing drink pairs perfectly, its sweet and tangy notes balancing the soup’s rich spices, making each sip a delight.
Churros for Dessert: To satisfy your sweet tooth, serve warm churros with a side of chocolate dipping sauce—a delicious conclusion to your flavorful feast.

Mexican Street Corn Soup Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting corn for the soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, always opt for corn that is fresh and sweet. If using frozen, go for fire-roasted variants. If possible, grilling fresh corn until slightly charred can elevate the smoky taste, truly mimicking the essence of elote!

How long can I store my Mexican Street Corn Soup in the fridge?
You can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to let it cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to maintain its freshness and taste.

Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this comforting soup for up to 3 months. I recommend leaving out the sour cream and cheese before freezing, which helps maintain a smooth texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What can I do if my soup turns out too thick?
If you find your soup too thick after cooking, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken stock or water while stirring it gently over low heat. This will help restore the desired creamy consistency for your soup.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re accommodating dairy sensitivities, I often use cashew cream or blended silken tofu in place of sour cream. For those avoiding meat, substituting chicken with chickpeas or black beans makes a hearty vegetarian option while still being flavorful.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn can be an excellent choice—it not only adds a sweet crunch but enhances the overall taste. Just cut the kernels off the cob and grill them for a bit to intensify the smokiness, bringing your soup to the next level!