Name: Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts: A Flavorful Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels Sprouts; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (or smoked paprika); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt); 1/4 cup Sour Cream (or plain yogurt); 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (fresh); 1/2 cup Cotija Cheese (or feta cheese); 1/4 cup Cilantro (freshly chopped)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I browsed through vibrant food markets, the enticing scent of charred corn filled the air, making me crave something fresh and exciting. That’s when the idea for these Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts ignited—a fun twist on the beloved elote, combining crispy Brussels sprouts with all those beloved Mexican flavors. Picture them roasted until perfectly golden, then drizzled with a tangy crema, crumbled cotija cheese, and a zesty splash of lime. Not only are these sprouts a flavorful side dish that can win over any skeptic, but they also boast the benefits of being quick to prepare and brimming with vibrant nutrition. Are you ready to transform a humble vegetable into something extraordinary? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why are these Brussels Sprouts special?

Bold flavors: The fusion of Mexican street corn elements with roasted Brussels sprouts creates an unforgettable flavor profile that adds excitement to your meals.

Quick to prepare: This recipe is simple, taking just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Crowd-pleaser: Their unique taste and crispy texture are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters in your family, turning skeptics into fans.

Versatile side: Pair these delicious sprouts with tacos or grilled chicken for a well-rounded dinner, or serve them as a tasty snack.

Health-conscious: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these sprouts offer a nutritious twist on classic comfort food. For storage tips, check out how to keep your leftovers fresh with best practices like storing them in an airtight container.

Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – These provide the heart of the dish, crisped to perfection for texture.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps achieve that desirable golden-brown hue during roasting.
• Chili Powder – Infuses the dish with smoky and spicy notes; swap for smoked paprika for extra depth.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat and enhances overall flavor.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Mayonnaise – The creamy base gives richness; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
• Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess, making the sauce delectable; plain yogurt works well too.
• Lime Juice – Brightens the dish with vibrant acidity; use fresh lime for the best flavor.

For Toppings
• Cotija Cheese – Offers a salty, crumbly texture to elevate the dish; feta cheese can serve as a substitute.
• Cilantro – Freshly chopped, it adds a burst of flavor and color; feel free to omit if not your favorite.

Let’s create these Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts and enjoy a burst of flavors that turns a simple vegetable into a star dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that the Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts will roast beautifully, achieving that coveted golden-brown color and crispy exterior. While the oven heats, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts, making the most of your time.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Rinse and trim your Brussels sprouts, removing any tough outer leaves and cutting them in half for even cooking. This step is essential for ensuring they roast uniformly. Once halved, set them aside while you mix the seasoning, envisioning how the flavors will meld together in the finished dish.

Step 3: Season the Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated to enhance the flavor profile of the Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts. Spread the seasoned sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, allowing ample space for roasting.

Step 4: Roast the Sprouts
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through cooking, shake the pan gently to promote even browning. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and an extra dash of chili powder in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy, creating a tangy sauce that will complement the roasted sprouts perfectly. This sauce is key to capturing the essence of the Mexican street corn flavor.

Step 6: Combine Sprouts and Sauce
Once the Brussels sprouts have finished roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, toss the hot Brussels sprouts with the creamy sauce until fully coated. This step helps the sauce cling to the sprouts, enhancing every bite of your Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
To complete your dish, transfer the sauced Brussels sprouts to a serving platter. Generously sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the top, followed by chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor. Finally, don’t forget a squeeze of lime juice right before serving to brighten up all the delicious flavors.

Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts

Spacing is Key: Ensure Brussels sprouts are well-spaced on the baking sheet for optimal roasting and even crispiness.

Adjust the Heat: Modify the amount of chili powder based on your spice tolerance—use more for a kick and less for mildness.

Check Doneness: Use a thermometer to confirm the Brussels sprouts reach around 400°F for that perfect crispy texture without burning.

Chill the Sauce: For an extra refreshing touch, prepare the creamy sauce in advance and refrigerate before tossing it with the hot Brussels sprouts.

Serve Immediately: These Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, preserving their delightful crunch and vibrant flavors.

Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts Variations

Feel free to customize these Brussels sprouts to suit your taste buds and dietary needs—creativity is key in the kitchen!

Add Corn: Incorporate cooked corn kernels for a delightful crunch and a more pronounced street corn flavor.
Vegan Delight: Swap out mayonnaise and sour cream for vegan alternatives, and omit the cheese or use a plant-based version to keep things cruelty-free.
Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix before roasting.
Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or chives instead of cilantro, which will infuse a different freshness into each bite.
Cheese Swap: If cotija is hard to find, feta cheese serves as a fantastic substitute, providing a similar tangy flavor and texture.
Smoky Twist: Enhance the smoky notes by using smoked paprika instead of standard chili powder, injecting deeper flavors into each sprout.
Tequila Lime: For a fun twist, mix a splash of tequila into the creamy sauce for an unexpected flavor profile that packs a punch.
Squeeze of Sweetness: Drizzle some honey or agave syrup over the top before serving to balance the spiciness with a touch of sweetness, creating a more complex taste experience.

These variations not only add excitement to the recipe but also allow you to create a dish that’s truly your own! If you’re looking for additional sides, consider pairing with spicy shrimp tacos or grilled chicken for a comforting meal filled with warmth and flavor. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts by washing, trimming, and cutting them in half up to 24 hours in advance—just store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. Additionally, mix the creamy sauce ingredients and refrigerate them separately, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the texture intact. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast the prepared Brussels sprouts at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, toss them with the sauce, and add the finishing touches with cotija cheese and cilantro. This way, you’ll have a delicious, vibrant side dish with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts

Picture a delightful dinner table, brimming with vibrant flavors and comforting textures that awaken your taste buds and spark joy all around.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken complements the sprouts’ bold flavors, adding a protein-packed element that rounds out your meal.
Tacos al Pastor: The sweet and savory notes in these tacos marry beautifully with the smoky taste of the Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful dining experience.
Spanish Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice serves as a neutral base, soaking up the creamy sauce from the sprouts while adding a satisfying carb element to your meal.
Fresh Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado and crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the crispy, rich Brussels sprouts for a delightful texture combination.
Zesty Limeade: A sweet and tart drink can brighten the palate, enhancing the overall experience with its refreshing notes that echo the lime in the dish.
Churros: For dessert, light, cinnamon-dusted churros offer a sweet finish that plays well with the savory and tangy components of the Brussels sprouts.
Roasted Corn on the Cob: Keeping with the Mexican street food theme, the sweetness of roasted corn pairs perfectly with the sprouts for a cohesive meal.
Grilled Fish: A light, flaky white fish adds elegance to your table, with flavors that won’t compete with the boldness of the Brussels sprouts.
Chipotle Black Beans: Spicy, hearty beans provide additional protein and a smoky note that complements the dish and keeps dinner hearty.

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Store your leftover Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will help maintain their flavor and texture.

Freezer: While not ideal for freezing, you can keep leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Expect some loss of texture upon thawing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they get a bit crispy again.

Serving Suggestions: Serve these delicious sprouts immediately after reheating, as they are best enjoyed while warm and crunchy.

Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, bright green ones with tightly closed leaves. Avoid any that have yellowing or dark spots. Fresh Brussels sprouts should feel heavy for their size and should not be overly soft. A good rule of thumb is to choose ones that are about one to one-and-a-half inches in diameter for the best texture when roasting.

How should I store leftover Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts?
Very good question! Once your delicious Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts cool down, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to avoid stacking them too high to maintain their crispy texture. If you’d like to keep them for longer, they can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, though you might lose some texture.

Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts?
Certainly! If you want to freeze your Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts, start by letting them cool completely after roasting. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about an hour until they are solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best results.

What can I do if my Brussels sprouts are soggy?
Very often, soggy Brussels sprouts come from overcrowding on the baking sheet. To avoid this, ensure they are spaced adequately for air to circulate while roasting. If you find yourself with soggy sprouts, you can try reheating them in a hot pan with a drizzle of olive oil to help crisp them up again. Roasting them back in a preheated oven can also help regain some of that much-desired crispiness.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary allergies?
While the Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts recipe is delicious, it does include mayonnaise, sour cream, and cotija cheese, which are dairy-based. If you or someone you’re serving has dairy allergies, I recommend using dairy-free alternatives such as vegan mayonnaise and plant-based yogurt to maintain the creamy texture. You can also omit the cheese altogether or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese option.