Ultimate Grilled Elote: Mexican Street Corn Perfection
Craving authentic elote corn? This grilled Mexican street corn recipe is slathered in creamy, tangy goodness! Easy, flavorful, and ready in minutes. Get the recipe!

- Recipe Introduction
- Ultimate Grilled Elote: Mexican Street Corn Perfection Recipe Card
- From Grill to Glory: Making elote corn
- Gather Your Kit
- Tips For Best Elote Corn
- Wrap-up: Time to Eat Mexican Corn
- Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Fiesta Started!
- Ultimate Grilled Elote: Mexican Street Corn Perfection
- Nailing Your Street Corn On The Cob
- Frequently Asked Questions
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bit of elote corn magic? Honestly, who doesn't love that smoky, creamy, spicy kick? This ain't just any corn; it's a fiesta in your mouth!
Brief Overview
Elote corn , or mexican street corn on the cob , is pure street food genius. originating from the bustling streets of mexico, it's basically grilled corn transformed into a flavour bomb.
It's dead easy to make in about 30 minutes and serves 4 greedy people.
This mexican street corn recipe is one of those sides for carne asada or smoked tri tip side dishes that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Plus, it's way more exciting than your average bean side dish recipes mexican !
Main Benefits
Forget boring corn recipe . this grilled sweet corn is packed with flavour and a good source of fiber. it's perfect for summer bbqs, fiesta side dishes , or even as a fun addition to your thanksgiving menu ideas .
This recipe brings that authentic mexican street corn recipe flavour to your table.
Ultimate Grilled Elote: Mexican Street Corn Perfection Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 4 ears fresh corn, husks removed and cleaned
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120 ml)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema (60 ml)
- 1/4 cup finely grated cotija cheese (or queso fresco), plus extra for garnish (30g)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
🥄 Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush corn lightly with olive oil.
- Grill corn, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides (about 10-15 minutes). Alternatively, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add corn and boil for 5-7 minutes, or until kernels are tender-crisp.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or crema), cotija cheese, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- While the corn is still warm, brush or spread generously with the Elote dressing.
- Sprinkle with extra cotija cheese and chili powder. Serve immediately.
From Grill to Glory: Making elote corn
Seriously, making elote corn is easier than finding a decent cup of tea in this country. you just need some corn, a few bits from the fridge, and a grill.
Let's be real, who can resist baked mexican street corn ?
Gather Your Kit
First, grab your 4 ears of corn. get them fresh, preferably from your local greengrocer. give them a good clean.
You'll need mayo, sour cream (or mexican crema if you can find it), cotija cheese, cilantro, lime, chili powder, and a few other bits.
It's easier than setting up your dutch oven side dishes . oh my gosh!
Tips For Best Elote Corn
If you're feeling fancy, soak the corn for half an hour before grilling. this makes them extra juicy. don't overcook them! aim for tender kernels with a bit of char.
Also, don't be shy with the chili powder!
Wrap-up: Time to Eat Mexican Corn
There you have it, elote corn that's ready to rock your world. it's amazing as a light sides for dinner or as a crockpot lunches option.
Honestly, this elote corn will be a total crowd-pleaser. enjoy and see you around!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Fiesta Started!
Alright, mate, time to gather your troops for some proper street corn on the cob action. we're talking about taking humble corn to a whole new level.
Honestly, this mexican street corn recipe is so easy, even i can't mess it up – and that's saying something!
Main Ingredients
- Fresh Corn: You'll need 4 ears of fresh corn. US: (4 ears) Metric: (4 ears). Look for plump kernels. Avoid dried-out husks for peak Grilled Sweet Corn . Trust me, the better the corn, the better the Elote!
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (US: 1 tbsp Metric: 15 ml). Any decent olive oil will do.
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup (US: ½ cup Metric: 120 ml). Full-fat is best. Don’t skimp! I once tried a light version and it was criminal. The Elote gods were not happy. Great addition to Mayo Salad .
- Sour Cream or Mexican Crema: ¼ cup (US: ¼ cup Metric: 60 ml). Crema if you can find it, otherwise sour cream works just fine. Can be added to Salad Avocado .
- Cotija Cheese: ¼ cup , grated, plus extra for garnish (US: ¼ cup Metric: 30g). Feta works in a pinch. The Mexican Corn needs that salty tang.
- Fresh Cilantro: 2 tablespoons , finely chopped. Don't be shy!
- Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon , freshly squeezed. Bottled stuff just doesn't cut it here.
- Chili Powder: ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste). Go easy if you're not a fan of heat.
- Garlic Powder: ¼ teaspoon .
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Obvs.
Seasoning Notes
Think of this as your flavour playground! the chili powder is key for that kick . and don't forget the lime – that acidity is what brings everything together.
If you're feeling brave, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper can send things stratospheric. you can also check some bean side dish recipes mexican for inspiration on your thanksgiving menu ideas .
You could also use it as one of your smoked tri tip side dishes . or to use to complement sides for carne asada
Want to take it up a notch? Add a dash of smoked paprika. That's my little secret. For some, it might be one of your Crockpot Lunches .
Equipment Needed
- Grill: Or a large pot if you fancy boiling it.
- Mixing Bowl: For the magic dressing.
- Pastry Brush: Optional, but handy for slathering on that good stuff.
- Tongs: To handle the hot corn. Safety first, people!
If you're lacking a grill, fear not. boiling the corn works perfectly fine. just adjust the cooking time accordingly. you could even bake them and make it a baked mexican street corn , or make it in a skillet, like skillet mexican street corn .
This Corn Recipe is simple but delicious. Elote is perfect as Light Sides For Dinner , Fiesta Side Dishes or even as a Dutch Oven Side Dishes .

Right then, let's get cracking on this elote corn recipe! picture it: the sun's shining. you are at a summer bbq.
Someone is handing you one of these bad boys. absolute bliss. honestly, this mexican street corn recipe is like a party in your mouth.
Let's make that a reality in everyone's kitchen!
Ultimate Grilled Elote: Mexican Street Corn Perfection
Oh my gosh! elote, or mexican street corn on the cob , is a culinary explosion. we are talking grilled corn.
It's slathered in creamy mayo. it also has tangy lime. and fiery chili powder! don't forget the salty cotija cheese.
Originating from the vibrant street food scene of mexico, this recipe brings those authentic flavors to your home, transforming simple corn on the cob into a fiesta for your taste buds.
Get ready for a flavor sensation that's as addictive as it is delicious! it’s easier than you think – trust me! it would look good as a part of thanksgiving menu ideas .
Prep Like a Pro: Essential Elote Mise en Place
Alright, first things first. get your corn ready. husk it, clean it. or, leave some husk on to use as a handle – clever, eh? this is essential mise en place .
Then, measure out all your other ingredients. this time-saving organization tip will make everything go smoother. honestly, nobody wants to be fumbling around when the grill is hot.
You can have it as light sides for dinner or even crockpot lunches .
Step-by-Step to Elote Nirvana
Here's how to get this show on the road:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush those corn cobs lightly with olive oil.
- Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until lightly charred. This should take about 10- 15 minutes . Visual cue for doneness: Nice grill marks.
- In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, cotija, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This is your magic sauce!
- While the corn is still warm, spread that Elote dressing generously all over.
- Sprinkle with extra cotija cheese and chili powder.
- Serve immediately. Boom!
Elote Expert Tips: Shortcuts and Secrets
Want to up your elote corn game? I get you!
- Soaking the corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent it from drying out. Honestly, it makes a difference.
- Don't overcook the corn! Overcooked corn becomes tough and chewy. Aim for tender-crisp kernels.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid : Don't skip the lime juice. It adds a critical tang.
If you are looking to add some bean side dish recipes mexican , a good option would be frijoles charros.
This dish can also be offered with the other sides for carne asada . also, it works pretty well with smoked tri tip side dishes .
And there you have it! The street corn recipe is complete.
Right then, let's chat about nailing this elote corn . it's not just a recipe; it's a taste of summer, you know? like, sunshine and good vibes all rolled into one.
So, before you dive in, let's run through some handy recipe notes .
Nailing Your Street Corn On The Cob
Honestly, i've made this mexican street corn recipe so many times. i've learned a thing or two along the way.
Small tweaks can make a huge difference. it all comes down to making it your own, innit?
Ace Serving Suggestions
Right, so plating, yeah? pile that grilled sweet corn high. don't be shy! a bit of extra cotija on top? always a winner.
As for sides, think bean side dish recipes mexican to start.
Or, if you're doing a Smoked Tri Tip Side Dishes , this Mexican Corn is a total winner. For lighter options, try a Salad Avocado or other Light Sides For Dinner .
Ace Storage Tips
Got leftovers? lucky you! stick that corn in the fridge, wrapped up tight, for up to three days. to be honest, i've never tried freezing it.
All the creamy bits might get a bit weird. when you reheat, grilling it for a few minutes is fantastic.
You could also try a skillet mexican street corn to heat it up, bringing the tastes back to life.
Ace Variations
Fancy a twist? easy peasy. for a mexican street corn recipe that's a bit spicier, chuck a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mayo salad .
Boom! vegan? no worries, sub the mayo and cheese for vegan alternatives. it's proper good, i swear. alternatively, you can create baked mexican street corn , is also really good
Ace Nutrition Basics
Ok, so each serving is about 350 calories. there's some protein, fat, and carbs in there, obviously. but let's be real, we're eating elote corn for the joy of it, aren't we? corn itself is packed with fiber, so that's a win! consider it if you are looking for thanksgiving menu ideas or maybe even crockpot lunches .
You will not be disappointed!
And that's that. my biggest tip? don't overthink it. just get stuck in and have fun. and remember this recipe for some fiesta side dishes or other sides for carne asada .
You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Elote corn, and why is everyone raving about it?
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is basically corn on the cob taken to a whole new level! It's grilled or boiled corn slathered in a creamy, tangy, and spicy dressing, usually with mayo, lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese. Think of it like the posh version of corn you'd find at a summer fete – a real flavor explosion that’s ridiculously addictive.
Can I make Elote corn if I don't have a grill?
Absolutely! No grill? No worries! Just boil the corn in a large pot of water for about 5-7 minutes until it's tender-crisp. You won't get that lovely char-grilled flavour, but the Elote dressing will still make it utterly delicious. Think of it as the "cheater's version" – still a winner!
Help! My Elote dressing is too runny! What did I do wrong?
A runny dressing usually means too much lime juice or sour cream. Try adding a bit more mayonnaise or cotija cheese to thicken it up. Also, make sure you're using proper sour cream or Mexican crema – using something like crème fraîche might give you a thinner consistency. A dash of extra cotija should sort you out in a jiffy.
Can I make this Elote recipe vegan, and what swaps can I make?
You bet your bottom dollar you can! Simply substitute vegan mayonnaise and sour cream alternatives. For the cotija cheese, you can use a vegan parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour. This way everyone can enjoy this yummy dish. It will be the talk of the town.
How long does Elote corn last, and what's the best way to store leftovers?
Elote is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, wrap each cob tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. It's best to consume them within 1-2 days. The corn can get a little soggy, so you might want to scrape off the dressing and add fresh dressing when you're ready to eat them. Nobody wants a soggy bottom!
What are some fun variations I can try with my Elote corn?
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Elote dressing for an extra kick. Or, create an Elote Salad by cutting the kernels off the cob and tossing them with the dressing – perfect for a side dish or light lunch. Get creative – maybe add some black beans or roasted peppers for a southwestern twist! Think outside the box - or in this case, the cob!
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