Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a beloved street food staple in Mexico, known for its bold, smoky, and creamy flavors. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with a tangy mayo mixture, sprinkled with chili powder, cheese, and lime juice for a vibrant and irresistible snack or side dish. Perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or festive gatherings, this dish delivers a satisfying combination of crunch, spice, and zest.

ingredients

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

fresh corn on the cobmayonnaiseMexican crema or sour creamcotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)chili powderlime juicegarlic powdersaltfresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.

Husk the corn and place the ears directly on the grill.

Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides.

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, crema, garlic powder, and salt.

Using a brush or spoon, spread the creamy mixture evenly over each ear of grilled corn.

Sprinkle generously with crumbled cotija cheese and chili powder.

Drizzle with lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Serve immediately while warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesGrilling time: 10-15 minutesTotal time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Use parmesan cheese if cotija isn’t available.

Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth.

Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Cut the kernels off the cob and mix all ingredients in a bowl for esquites (a street corn salad version).

Top with hot sauce for added heat.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers wrapped in foil or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.Reheat by placing the corn in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwaving for 30-60 seconds.

FAQs

What is Elote?

Elote is grilled Mexican street corn topped with a creamy, cheesy, and spicy coating, served on the cob.

Can I make Elote without a grill?

Yes, you can roast corn in the oven or cook it on a stovetop grill pan.

Is cotija cheese necessary?

Cotija gives traditional flavor, but parmesan or feta can be used as substitutes.

Is Elote spicy?

It has mild heat from chili powder, which can be adjusted to taste.

Can I make Elote ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and toppings in advance and grill the corn when ready to serve.

Is there a vegan version?

Yes, use vegan mayo, plant-based cheese, and dairy-free sour cream alternatives.

Can I serve this for a party?

Absolutely! Elote makes a great appetizer or side dish at cookouts and parties.

What kind of corn works best?

Fresh sweet corn on the cob is ideal for this recipe.

Can I use frozen corn?

If fresh isn’t available, thawed frozen corn on the cob can be grilled or roasted as a substitute.

What drink pairs well with Elote?

Try it with agua fresca, beer, or a citrusy margarita for a perfect match.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn (Elote) is a fiery, creamy, and savory delight that brings the spirit of Mexican street food right to your table. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. One bite and you’ll see why Elote is a cherished favorite across cultures and borders.