I love making this Mexican street corn and shrimp dish when I want something bold, colorful, and full of vibrant flavor. The smoky shrimp paired with creamy, tangy street corn creates a combination that feels fresh, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying. I usually make this when I’m craving something fun and comforting that still feels light and summery.
I enjoy how this dish brings together juicy shrimp, charred corn, and classic street corn toppings into one easy meal. It works beautifully as a main dish or even as a shareable platter for casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s quick to make and packed with big flavors. The shrimp cook fast and stay tender, while the street corn adds creaminess, crunch, and a little heat. I also love how versatile it is, since I can serve it on its own, over rice, or tucked into tacos.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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Corn kernels, fresh or frozen
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Olive oil
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Butter
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Garlic
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Chili powder
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Smoked paprika
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Cumin
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Mayonnaise
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Lime juice
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Cotija cheese or feta cheese
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Fresh cilantro
Directions
I start by seasoning the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. I heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. I remove them from the pan and set them aside.
In the same skillet, I melt butter and sauté the corn until lightly charred and golden. I add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. I stir in mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice, mixing until the corn is well coated and creamy.
I return the shrimp to the pan and gently toss everything together. I finish by sprinkling cotija cheese and fresh cilantro over the top before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add diced jalapeño for extra heat or a dash of hot sauce for more spice. When I want a lighter version, I reduce the mayonnaise and use more Greek yogurt. I also enjoy serving this as a taco filling or over cilantro lime rice.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently in a skillet to keep the shrimp tender. I avoid microwaving for too long so the shrimp don’t become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
I use frozen shrimp often, and I just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What Kind Of Corn Works Best?
I like fresh corn when it’s in season, but frozen corn works perfectly year-round.
Is This Dish Spicy?
I find it mildly spicy, but I can easily adjust the heat with more or less chili powder.
Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?
I prefer making it fresh, but I sometimes prep the sauce and season the shrimp ahead to save time.
What Can I Serve With This?
I enjoy serving it with rice, tortillas, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
I love this Mexican street corn and shrimp recipe because it’s bold, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite. It’s quick, versatile, and always feels like a fun upgrade from everyday dinners, making it a recipe I come back to again and again.
Print
Mexican Street Corn And Shrimp
- Author: Olivia
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp is a bold, flavorful dish featuring smoky, spiced shrimp tossed with creamy, tangy street corn. It’s fresh, fun, and perfect for a quick dinner or festive gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese or feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add corn and sauté until lightly charred, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice. Mix well until the corn is creamy and coated.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together.
- Sprinkle with cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Add diced jalapeño or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter option.
- Serve as taco filling, over rice, or with tortillas for variety.
- Thaw and pat dry frozen shrimp before cooking for best texture.
- Reheat gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
