Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsOrchard City KitchenElote Mac & Cheese Recipe

Elote Mac & Cheese Recipe

Time45m
Serves6

orecchietti / corn / cotija / cilantro crema / tajin

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Corn Mixture

Cilantro Crema

Method

Pasta

  1. 1

    Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a generous amount of salt. Cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Corn Mixture

  1. 2

    Prepare the Corn

    In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add fresh corn kernels and Tajin seasoning. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the corn is slightly charred and tender. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cheese Sauce

  1. 3

    Make the Cheese Sauce

    In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux and cook for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Add cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, Cotija cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine and Serve

  1. 4

    Combine Ingredients

    In the large pot with the cooked pasta, add the cheese sauce and sautéed corn mixture. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

  2. 5

    Prepare Cilantro Crema

    In a bowl, mix together sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime juice until well combined.

  3. 6

    Serve

    Serve the Elote Mac & Cheese hot, drizzled with cilantro crema on top. Garnish with additional Cotija cheese and a sprinkle of Tajin if desired.

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