Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts

Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts combine the crispy, caramelized goodness of roasted Brussels sprouts with the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn. The Brussels sprouts are roasted until golden brown, creating a perfect crispy exterior while maintaining a tender inside. Topped with a tangy crema, crumbled cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a squeeze of lime, these Brussels sprouts take on the smoky, savory flavors of traditional Mexican street corn, making them an irresistible side dish.

I first made this dish when I was looking for a unique way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, and it quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of smoky chili powder, creamy tang from the cotija cheese, and a pop of lime adds a whole new dimension of flavor to the Brussels sprouts. What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms simple roasted Brussels sprouts into a bold, exciting dish. It’s the perfect side for tacos, grilled meats, or as a standalone snack that packs a punch of flavor. Whether served at a family dinner or a casual get-together, these Brussels sprouts are sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Casual gatherings
• Taco nights
• Game day snacks
• Summer BBQs
• Brussels sprouts lovers
• Spice enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts will become your new favorite snack:

• Bold Flavor Profile: The combination of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors creates a perfect balance.
• Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting the Brussels sprouts gives them a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy topping.
• Creamy and Tangy Crema: The lime-infused crema adds a smooth and zesty richness that complements the charred sprouts.
• Rich and Salty Cotija Cheese: Cotija cheese brings an irresistible salty punch that ties the dish together.
• Customization Options: Adjust the level of spice or add more toppings like avocado or cilantro for a personalized touch.
• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly with minimal effort and is perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy Yet Indulgent: Roasted Brussels sprouts are a nutritious veggie that feel indulgent with the creamy toppings.
• Perfect for a Crowd: Serve this dish at parties, BBQs, or as a side at dinner and watch it disappear!
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free.
• Fresh and Flavorful: With fresh lime, chili powder, and cilantro, this dish bursts with vibrant flavors.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-220 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 14g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

the Crema:

• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pinch of salt

For the Toppings:

• ¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Brussels Sprouts: A nutrient-packed vegetable that becomes crispy and caramelized when roasted.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep smoky flavor to the Brussels sprouts.
• Cotija Cheese: A crumbly Mexican cheese that adds saltiness and depth to the dish.
• Fresh Lime: Brings a zesty, citrusy kick to balance out the creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Roast the Brussels Sprouts:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Toss them with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Roast: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the edges. Stir halfway through for even roasting.

Make the Crema:

4. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
5. Adjust to Taste: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice or chili powder for extra tang or spice.

Assemble the Dish:

6. Top with Crema: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, drizzle the crema generously over the sprouts.
7. Sprinkle with Toppings: Top with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Serve:

8. Garnish and Serve: Serve the Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts:

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside tacos, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables for a flavor-packed meal.
• As an Appetizer: Perfect for sharing at a party or BBQ.
• With Extra Lime: For extra tang, squeeze lime wedges over the sprouts right before serving.
• In a Taco: Fill a soft taco with these Brussels sprouts, some grilled chicken, and avocado for a delicious twist.
• With Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado slices on top for a smooth contrast to the crispy Brussels sprouts.
• For a Vegetarian Meal: Enjoy these sprouts as the star of a meatless meal, paired with rice or quinoa.
• With Extra Heat: Drizzle some hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for added spice.
• With Grilled Corn: Serve alongside grilled corn on the cob for a complete street food-inspired meal.
• For a Fresh Twist: Top with fresh diced tomatoes and red onions for a fresh, vibrant contrast.

Additional Tips

• For Extra Crispiness: Roast the Brussels sprouts longer for a more crispy texture, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
• Even Coating: Make sure to coat the Brussels sprouts evenly with oil and spices for the best flavor.
• Make Ahead Crema: You can prepare the crema in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the Brussels sprouts are spread out on the baking sheet to roast evenly and get crispy.
• Garnish Right Before Serving: Top with crema and toppings right before serving to keep everything fresh and crispy.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Crema: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a spoonful of chipotle in adobo sauce to the crema for an extra kick.
• Vegan Version: Swap the crema for a dairy-free version made with cashews or coconut cream, and use dairy-free cheese.
• Cheddar Version: Swap cotija cheese for sharp cheddar for a different take on this dish.
• Grilled Version: Grill the Brussels sprouts instead of roasting them for a smoky flavor.
• With Beef Bacon: Add crispy beef bacon crumbles as a topping for extra savory flavor.
• Lemon Zest Crema: Add lemon zest to the crema for a citrus twist.
• Cucumber Topping: Add diced cucumber for a fresh and crunchy contrast to the roasted Brussels sprouts.
• With Fresh Jalapeños: For a spicy touch, garnish with thinly sliced fresh jalapeños.
• Crispy Onions: Add crispy fried onions on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Lime and Cilantro Rice: Serve with lime and cilantro rice as a perfect complement.

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: For roasting the Brussels sprouts.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the crema ingredients.
• Whisk: For combining the crema ingredients smoothly.
• Tongs: For tossing the Brussels sprouts and spreading them evenly on the baking sheet.
• Squeeze Bottle: Optional for drizzling the crema evenly over the sprouts.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
   Fresh Brussels sprouts work best for roasting, but frozen sprouts can be used in a pinch. Just ensure they are fully thawed before roasting.
2. How long can I store leftovers?
   Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, just make sure to check any packaged ingredients like mayonnaise or crema.
4. Can I make this dish spicy?
   Yes, you can adjust the heat by adding more chili powder, fresh jalapeños, or hot sauce.
5. How do I make sure the Brussels sprouts stay crispy?
   Make sure the sprouts are spread out on the baking sheet and don’t overcrowd them. This allows them to roast evenly and get crispy.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
   While the Brussels sprouts are best served fresh, you can prepare the crema ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
7. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute cotija with feta or parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile.
8. Can I grill the Brussels sprouts instead of roasting?
   Yes, grilling Brussels sprouts adds a smoky flavor and works perfectly for this recipe.
9. Can I make this without crema?
   Yes, you can serve the Brussels sprouts with just the toppings and a squeeze of lime if you prefer a lighter option.
10. Can I add other veggies to this dish?
    Yes, you can mix in other roasted vegetables like corn, zucchini, or bell peppers for variety.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts are a vibrant and delicious fusion dish that combines the smoky, charred flavors of Mexican street corn (elote) with the crunchy texture of Brussels sprouts. The Brussels sprouts are roasted or grilled until crispy and slightly caramelized, then tossed with a flavorful coating inspired by the traditional street corn topping.

The sauce for this dish is typically made with mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder, creating a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy coating. Cotija cheese is crumbled on top for a salty, crumbly texture, while fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime bring freshness and brightness to the dish. You can even sprinkle some chili powder or smoked paprika for an extra layer of smoky heat. The result is a dish with a perfect balance of smokiness, creaminess, and spice, making it an exciting side dish or snack. It’s great for grilling season, or as a unique twist on Brussels sprouts to serve with tacos, grilled meats, or a fresh salad.

I can’t wait to see how your Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your tasty creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!