6+ Flavorful Instant Pot Esquites Recipes to Try

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

Imagine hosting a gathering where your guests rave about the Spicy Chipotle Esquites you made, perfectly blending heat and creaminess. With the Instant Pot, preparing these flavorful dishes is quick and effortless. From classic recipes to unique twists like Tropical Mango Esquites, there's a variety that suits every palate. Ready to discover how you can elevate your culinary repertoire with these delicious options?

Key Takeaways

• Classic Instant Pot Esquites feature tender corn topped with cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime for an authentic Mexican flavor.
• Spicy Chipotle Esquites add chipotle peppers for a smoky kick, perfect as a side for grilled meats.
• Creamy Avocado Esquites incorporate ripe avocados and sour cream, creating a rich texture ideal for summer gatherings.
• Tropical Mango Esquites combine fresh corn and diced mango with coconut milk for a sweet and savory twist.
• Cheesy Jalapeño Esquites highlight heavy cream and jalapeños, delivering a creamy and spicy flavor profile.

Classic Instant Pot Esquites

Classic Instant Pot Esquites is a delicious and flavorful dish that captures the essence of traditional Mexican street corn. Esquites, or corn off the cob, are typically prepared with a blend of spices, lime, and cheese, creating a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

This dish isn't only quick to make using an Instant Pot but also allows you to enjoy the taste of summer corn any time of the year. The Instant Pot makes this recipe incredibly easy, allowing you to cook the corn kernels to perfection in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop.

The result is tender, flavorful corn that can be enjoyed as a side dish or even as a snack. Pair it with your favorite toppings like cotija cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for an authentic taste that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4-5 ears of corn)
• 1 cup vegetable broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by adding the corn kernels and vegetable broth (or water) to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
2. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, do a quick release of the pressure.
3. Carefully open the lid and stir in the olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to incorporate the spices into the corn.
4. Next, add the mayonnaise, cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir everything together until the corn is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese and cilantro if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider charring the corn kernels slightly on the stovetop before adding them to the Instant Pot. You can do this by sautéing them in a pan with a bit of oil until they start to brown, which will enhance the overall taste of the esquites.

Additionally, feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference, or even add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick! Enjoy your esquites with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos for a delightful twist.

Spicy Chipotle Esquites

Spicy Chipotle Esquites is a delightful street food from Mexico that brings the vibrant flavors of corn, lime, and spices straight to your table. This recipe utilizes the Instant Pot for a quick and easy preparation, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.

With the addition of chipotle peppers, the esquites gain a smoky heat that elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity. The Instant Pot allows the corn to cook quickly while retaining its sweetness and crunch.

Topped with crumbled cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, Spicy Chipotle Esquites is a colorful and delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying snack.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and once hot, sauté the diced onion until translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute to combine the flavors.
3. Add the corn kernels and vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to mix everything well. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. Open the lid and stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Top with crumbled cheese before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.

This dish can also be made with frozen corn if fresh corn isn't available, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Serve the esquites warm, and feel free to customize the toppings with avocado, radish slices, or additional lime wedges for a fresh twist!

Creamy Avocado Esquites

Creamy Avocado Esquites is a delightful twist on the traditional Mexican street corn dish, offering a rich and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of corn. This version utilizes the Instant Pot to quickly cook the corn, allowing you to achieve tender kernels in no time. The addition of ripe avocados and a splash of lime adds an extra layer of flavor, making it a perfect side dish or snack for any occasion.

This recipe isn't only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of Creamy Avocado Esquites that will impress your family and friends. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or simply craving a tasty treat, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or 4 ears of corn, husked)
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Crumbled queso fresco (optional, for garnish)

To prepare the Creamy Avocado Esquites, start by adding the corn kernels to the Instant Pot. Pour in 1 cup of water, then secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.

Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure and carefully remove the lid. Drain any excess liquid from the corn and transfer the kernels to a mixing bowl.

In the same bowl, add the diced avocado, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold the ingredients together to combine, making sure not to mash the avocado too much.

Once mixed, transfer the esquites to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro and crumbled queso fresco if desired.

Extra Tips: For added flavor, consider roasting the corn in the Instant Pot for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or mixing in some diced jalapeños. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and reduce the amount of mayonnaise. Enjoy your Creamy Avocado Esquites as a revitalizing addition to any meal!

Roasted Garlic and Herb Esquites

To bring out the best in the ingredients, you'll be using roasted garlic, which adds a rich, mellow flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley elevate the dish with their vibrant notes.

With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this delightful and savory esquites that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 head of garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by roasting the garlic. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the head of garlic in aluminum foil, drizzling a bit of olive oil on top before sealing it tightly. Roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and caramelized.

Allow it to cool slightly before squeezing the roasted garlic out of the skins into a bowl.

2. In your Instant Pot, add the corn kernels, the roasted garlic, the remaining olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Close the lid, set it to the manual setting, and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.

Once done, perform a quick release. Open the lid and stir in the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chili powder, cilantro, and parsley until everything is well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or some diced jalapeños for heat.

If you're a fan of spice, you can also mix in some diced serrano peppers with the corn before cooking. This dish is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold, making it versatile for any gathering.

Tropical Mango Esquites

To make Tropical Mango Esquites, you'll need fresh corn kernels, which can be harvested from cobs or purchased frozen. This recipe highlights the use of coconut milk and fresh mango, bringing a tropical flair that elevates the traditional esquites.

Whether you're serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as a snack, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or 2 cans of corn, drained)
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Place the corn kernels in the Instant Pot along with the coconut milk, lime juice, and salt. Stir to combine. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
2. Once the corn is cooked, stir in the diced mango and mayonnaise until well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice or chili powder to suit your preference.

If using, sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese on top and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an added depth of flavor, consider grilling the corn on the cob before adding it to the Instant Pot. This will give your esquites a smoky taste that complements the sweetness of the mango beautifully.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as diced avocado or a sprinkle of Tajín for an extra kick!

Cilantro-Lime Esquites

Cilantro-Lime Esquites is a delightful Mexican street food that brings a burst of flavor to your table. This dish features sweet corn mixed with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, creating a vibrant combination that's perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Cooking it in the Instant Pot makes the process quick and easy, ensuring the corn remains tender and delicious while infusing all the wonderful flavors.

This recipe isn't only simple but can also be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it mild with just a hint of spice or with a kick from jalapeños, cilantro-lime esquites will surely impress your family and friends. Serve it as a side dish or as a topping for tacos, and enjoy the fresh and tangy notes that make this dish a standout.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen corn)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Optional: diced jalapeños for spice

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by adding the corn kernels, olive oil, salt, and chili powder to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then perform a quick release.
2. Once the steam is released, carefully open the lid and stir in the mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, and cilantro until all ingredients are well combined. If you like it spicy, feel free to add some diced jalapeños at this stage.

Extra Tips:

For an added depth of flavor, consider grilling the corn before adding it to the Instant Pot for a smoky taste. You can also adjust the lime juice and chili powder according to your preference.

If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, keep the cilantro and cheese separate until serving to maintain their freshness. Enjoy your cilantro-lime esquites warm or at room temperature!

Cheesy Jalapeño Esquites

Cheesy Jalapeño Esquites is a delightful twist on the traditional Mexican street corn dish known as elote. This creamy and spicy version is perfect for gatherings or as a side dish, and it's incredibly easy to prepare using your Instant Pot. The combination of sweet corn, tangy cheese, and fiery jalapeños creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

With the Instant Pot, you can have this dish ready in no time, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. The pressure cooking method guarantees that the corn retains its natural sweetness while absorbing all the creamy, cheesy goodness. So, get ready to impress your friends and family with this delectable cheesy jalapeño esquites!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1-2 jalapeños, diced (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by adding the corn kernels, heavy cream, diced jalapeños, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper into the Instant Pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.
2. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
3. Open the lid and stir in the crumbled cotija cheese. Allow the residual heat to melt the cheese, mixing it into the corn mixture until creamy and well-combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Extra Tips:

For an added layer of flavor, consider charring the corn in a skillet or on a grill before adding it to the Instant Pot. This will impart a smoky taste to your esquites.

Additionally, feel free to customize the spice level by adjusting the number of jalapeños or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy this tasty dish as a side or a satisfying snack!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Corn for These Esquites Recipes?

Yes, you can use frozen corn for your esquites recipes. Just toss it in your Instant Pot, and adjust the cooking time slightly. It'll taste delicious and save you prep time! Enjoy your cooking!

How Long Do Leftovers Last in the Fridge?

Leftovers typically last about three to five days in the fridge. Be sure to store them in an airtight container, and always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying them again.

Can I Make Esquites Without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can definitely make esquites without an Instant Pot! Just cook your corn on the stovetop, mix in your seasonings and toppings, and enjoy a delicious treat that's easy and quick to prepare.

What Are Some Good Toppings for Esquites?

You can enhance your esquites with toppings like crumbled queso fresco, a sprinkle of chili powder, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a drizzle of creamy mayonnaise. These add flavor and texture that elevate your dish.

Can I Adjust the Spice Level in These Recipes?

Yes, you can definitely adjust the spice level in these recipes! Just add more or less of your favorite spices and ingredients, like chili powder or cayenne, to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting!