Ranchero Corn

Bursting with vibrant flavors, Ranchero Corn is a quick and easy side dish that transforms simple corn kernels into a zesty, Tex-Mex-inspired delight. Featuring a medley of sautéed onions, garlic, and juicy diced tomatoes, this recipe is infused with bold spices like smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder for a smoky, slightly spicy kick. A splash of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro brighten the dish, while optional crumbles of cotija cheese add a creamy, salty finish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or potlucks, this 15-minute skillet recipe is versatile enough to be served alongside grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone vegetarian option. Whether you’re working with fresh, frozen, or canned corn, this Ranchero Corn recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing side dish packed with flavor and Tex-Mex flair.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup cotija cheese (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter with the olive oil.

Step 2

Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn begins to char slightly.

Step 5

Stir in the diced tomatoes, diced jalapeño, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are well incorporated and heated through.

Step 6

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice, if desired.

Step 8

Transfer the Ranchero Corn to a serving dish and sprinkle with cotija cheese, if using. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1387.3 grams (1387.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1407

Total Fat 69.80g	89%
Saturated Fat 30.80g	154%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 115mg	38%
Sodium 2592mg	113%
Total Carbohydrate 189.20g	69%
Dietary Fiber 31.60g	113%
Total Sugars 64.50g
Protein 45.60g	91%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 604mg	46%
Iron 9mg	49%
Potassium 3113mg	66%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.1%

Protein: 11.6%

Carbs: 48.3%