Mexican Street Corn (Elote) is a delicious and flavorful dish featuring grilled corn slathered in a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce, then topped with crumbled cheese and fresh cilantro. This popular street food is easy to make at home and perfect for summer barbecues, cookouts, or as a tasty side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

For the Corn:

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup (120 g) mayonnaise
• ¼ cup (60 g) sour cream or Mexican crema
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• ½ cup (60 g) crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• Extra chili powder or Tajín seasoning (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Grill the Corn

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
2. Brush the corn with vegetable oil or melted butter to prevent sticking.
3. Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and golden brown on all sides.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

4. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime juice until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Elote

5. Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the heat and immediately brush or spread the creamy sauce over each ear.
6. Sprinkle generously with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and a dash of extra chili powder or Tajín seasoning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

7. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick!

Notes

• No grill? You can roast the corn in a hot skillet or bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Mild version: Skip the chili powder or use Tajín seasoning for a milder, citrusy kick.
• Want extra spice? Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
• Make it a dip! Cut the corn off the cob and mix everything together for an easy Mexican Street Corn Salad.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of smoky, charred corn, creamy and tangy sauce, and crumbly cheese creates an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. The lime juice and chili powder balance the richness, making this a perfectly balanced dish.

Conclusion

Making Mexican Street Corn at home is simple and brings the authentic flavors of Mexican street food right to your table. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, this elote recipe will be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Try it today and experience the ultimate grilled corn recipe! 🌽🔥😋