There’s something special about summer evenings, the smoky aroma of grilled corn wafting through the air, and the irresistible blend of creamy, tangy, and spicy toppings coating every golden kernel. Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) is the ultimate side dish or snack to elevate any meal. This classic Mexican treat combines grilled sweet corn with a flavorful crema sauce, crumbly cotija cheese, and a splash of lime for an unforgettable bite.

If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this street food favorite at home, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this dish a standout success.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)

Elotes are more than just corn on the cob; they’re an explosion of flavor in every bite. Here’s why they’re worth adding to your recipe collection:

• Bold, vibrant flavors: The combination of tangy lime, creamy sauce, and smoky chipotle creates an irresistible taste.
• Simple to prepare: With just a few basic steps and ingredients, you can whip up this impressive dish.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual BBQ or a festive gathering, elotes are always a hit.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, toppings, and seasonings to suit your preferences.

Ingredients for Grilled Mexican Street Corn

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

• 6 to 8 medium ears sweet corn, husks removed
• 1/2 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons finely grated lime zest (from 1 lime)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 lime)
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Grill

• Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to 400°F.
• Once the grill is hot, clean the grates with a grill brush to ensure the corn doesn’t stick.

2. Make the Crema Sauce

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the crema, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, chipotle pepper, lime zest, and lime juice.
• Taste the sauce and season with salt if needed. Remember, the crema and cotija cheese already contain some salt, so add sparingly.

3. Grill the Corn

• Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes until the kernels start to brown and char.
• Rotate the corn every 2–3 minutes to ensure all sides are evenly grilled.
• Once the corn is golden brown with charred spots, remove it from the grill and transfer to a plate.

4. Assemble the Elotes

• Using a spoon or brush, generously coat each ear of grilled corn with the crema sauce.
• Sprinkle the cotija cheese evenly over the sauce-coated corn.
• For extra flavor, dust with a pinch of chipotle pepper.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the elotes immediately with lime wedges on the side. Encourage your guests to squeeze lime juice over their corn for a tangy finish.

Tips for the Best Grilled Mexican Street Corn

1. Choose Fresh Corn

• Fresh, sweet corn is the star of this dish. Look for ears with plump kernels and bright green husks.

2. Get a Good Char

• A smoky char adds depth to the flavor. Turn the corn regularly to avoid burning while achieving that perfect golden-brown finish.

3. Use Authentic Ingredients

• Mexican crema and cotija cheese are key to the authentic flavor. If you can’t find them, substitute with sour cream and Parmesan cheese.

4. Adjust the Spice Level

• Use more or less chipotle pepper to control the heat. You can also substitute it with chili powder or cayenne for a different kick.

5. Customize the Toppings

• Add crumbled bacon, Tajín seasoning, or a sprinkle of paprika to give your elotes a personal twist.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Balanced Flavors

The creamy sauce complements the smoky, charred corn, while the lime and chipotle add brightness and spice.

2. Easy Preparation

With just a few simple steps, you can transform ordinary corn into an extraordinary dish.

3. Versatility

Elotes work as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, making them a great addition to any meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	200 kcal
Protein	5 g
Carbohydrates	20 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	250 mg

FAQs About Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)

1. Can I make elotes without a grill?

Yes! You can broil the corn in the oven, turning it frequently until it’s lightly charred, or cook it on a stovetop grill pan.

2. What’s a good substitute for cotija cheese?

Feta cheese or Parmesan are great substitutes if cotija cheese isn’t available.

3. How do I make vegan elotes?

Use plant-based mayonnaise, vegan sour cream, and a dairy-free cheese substitute to make this dish vegan-friendly.

4. Can I prepare elotes in advance?

You can grill the corn and make the sauce ahead of time, but wait to assemble the elotes until just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

5. How can I store leftovers?

Store assembled elotes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven before serving.

6. What can I serve with elotes?

Elotes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, fajitas, or as a standalone snack with tortilla chips.

Conclusion: Try Grilled Mexican Street Corn Today!

Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) is a recipe that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating Taco Tuesday, or simply craving a flavorful snack, elotes will bring the perfect touch of smoky, creamy, and tangy goodness to your table.

Why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and treat yourself to this authentic Mexican delight. Your taste buds will thank you!

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