Mexican Street Corn Soup – Easy Crockpot Recipe for Cozy Nights

Nothing says cozy comfort food like a warm bowl of creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup simmered to perfection in the crockpot. With its rich, creamy texture, bursts of sweet corn, and a hint of spice, this soup will make your kitchen smell like a cozy fall evening.

Creamy Mexican Street Corn Soup in a white bowl topped with cilantro and cotija cheese.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe is beginner-friendly and uses simple pantry ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Recipe Info

FieldDetails
CategoryDinner, Soup
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time4–6 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
Servings6 servings
Calories~320 calories per serving

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 4 cups frozen corn (or fresh if in season)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Crumbled cotija or queso fresco (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the base
    Add corn, onion, garlic, and bell pepper to your crockpot.
  2. Build the flavor
    Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then mix in chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Set and forget
    Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until vegetables are soft and the flavors are well blended.
  4. Make it creamy
    Use an immersion blender to blend about half the soup for a thick, creamy texture while keeping some corn whole for bite.
  5. Finish the soup
    Stir in butter, cream, and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Squeeze in fresh lime juice for brightness.
  6. Serve and enjoy
    Ladle into bowls and top with chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, and an extra squeeze of lime if desired.

Helpful Notes & Tips

  • Meal prep friendly: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Adjust the spice: Reduce cayenne for mild flavor, or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
  • Creaminess control: For an extra creamy soup, use heavy cream; for a lighter version, stick with half-and-half or even whole milk.

Recipe Variations

  • Protein boost: Add shredded chicken, turkey bacon crumbles, or grilled shrimp.
  • Vegetarian twist: Use vegetable broth and skip the meat entirely for a flavorful vegetarian version.
  • Cheesy goodness: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little kick.

Serving Suggestions

This Mexican Street Corn Soup pairs perfectly with:

  • A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette
  • Cheese quesadillas for dipping
  • Warm crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side

Conclusion

This crockpot Mexican Street Corn Soup is everything you love about cozy fall dinners — simple, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or prepping for a cozy weekend, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.