Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Street Corn, or Elote, is a beloved street food that delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with creamy mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, creating a tangy, smoky, and savory combination that’s absolutely irresistible. It’s perfect for barbecues, cookouts, or as a flavorful side dish.

ingredients

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

fresh corn on the cobmayonnaisecotija cheese (crumbled)chili powderlimejuicebutterfresh cilantro (optional)salt

directions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Husk the corn and lightly brush each ear with butter.

Place the corn on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until slightly charred and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes).

Remove the corn from the grill and immediately brush with a generous layer of mayonnaise.

Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the mayo-coated corn.

Dust with chili powder to taste, and squeeze fresh lime juice over each ear.

Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and a pinch of salt.

Serve immediately while warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesGrilling time: 7-10 minutesTotal time: 17-20 minutes

Variations

Use sour cream or Mexican crema instead of mayo for a different creamy base.

Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.

Top with hot sauce for a spicier version.

Cut the grilled corn off the cob and mix the toppings in a bowl to make esquites (Mexican street corn salad).

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.To reheat, warm in a microwave or oven until heated through. Note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

FAQs

What is Elote?

Elote is Mexican-style grilled corn typically served on the cob with creamy toppings, cheese, and spices.

Can I use frozen or canned corn?

Fresh corn is best, but you can use frozen corn on the cob if grilled. Canned corn is better suited for esquites.

What can I use instead of cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a good substitute if cotija is unavailable.

Is this dish spicy?

It can be as mild or as spicy as you like depending on how much chili powder or hot sauce you use.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can grill the corn in advance and add the toppings just before serving.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cheese alternative and a vegan mayo.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can roast the corn in the oven or cook it in a skillet over high heat for similar results.

Do I have to use mayonnaise?

You can use crema, sour cream, or even a mix of mayo and crema for a lighter flavor.

How do I prevent the corn from drying out?

Coating with butter before grilling and applying the creamy toppings right after helps retain moisture.

Is cilantro necessary?

It’s optional but adds a fresh, herby note that complements the richness of the toppings.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn (Elote) is a vibrant, flavor-packed side that transforms simple corn into a crave-worthy treat. Whether served at a summer gathering or as a snack anytime, it brings the zest and joy of Mexican street food straight to your plate. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite across the globe.