Elote

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a beloved street food featuring grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy, tangy, and spicy mixture of mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime. It’s a perfect blend of smoky, savory, and zesty flavors that transform simple corn into a crave-worthy side or snack.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh corn on the cob
mayonnaise
cotija cheese (crumbled)
chili powder or Tajín seasoning
lime wedges
fresh cilantro (optional)
unsalted butter (optional for grilling)
salt

directions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Husk the corn and place it directly on the grill, turning occasionally until it’s charred and cooked through, about 7–10 minutes.

Remove the corn and let it cool slightly.

Brush each ear with mayonnaise until evenly coated.

Sprinkle generously with crumbled cotija cheese.

Dust with chili powder or Tajín to taste.

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top.

Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Grilling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Use sour cream or Mexican crema instead of mayonnaise for a tangier flavor.
Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Cut the grilled corn off the cob and mix all ingredients in a bowl for esquites (Mexican corn salad).
Top with crushed hot Cheetos for a fun twist.

storage/reheating

Elote is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a microwave or oven until warm.
If making ahead, store components separately and assemble just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen or canned corn?

Fresh corn is ideal, but frozen corn on the cob works well. Avoid canned corn for elote on the cob.

What is cotija cheese?

Cotija is a salty, crumbly Mexican cheese. Feta can be used as a substitute.

Is elote spicy?

It can be mildly spicy depending on how much chili powder you use.

Can I make elote without a grill?

Yes, roast the corn in the oven or cook it on a stovetop griddle or cast iron skillet.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and vegan mayonnaise.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Sour cream, crema, or a mix of both work well.

Conclusion

Elote is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy corn with bold, authentic Mexican flavors. Whether you’re grilling for a summer BBQ or looking to recreate your favorite street food at home, elote is sure to impress with its creamy, zesty, and smoky character.

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