Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elote, or Mexican Street Corn, is a popular and flavorful street food that’s smoky, creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy. It features grilled corn on the cob slathered in a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, lime juice, and chili powder. Perfect as a summer side dish or snack, elote brings bold, irresistible Mexican flavors to your table with minimal prep.

ingredients

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

corn on the cobmayonnaisesour creamcotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)limejuicechili powderpaprikacilantro (optional for garnish)saltwooden sticks or skewers (optional)

directions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Remove the husks and silk from the corn cobs.

Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides.

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

Once the corn is grilled, use a brush or spoon to slather each cob with the creamy mixture.

Sprinkle generously with crumbled cotija cheese.

Dust with chili powder and paprika to taste.

Garnish with chopped cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime juice if desired.

Insert wooden sticks for easier handling if serving as a street-style snack.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

Roll the corn in crushed hot Cheetos for a crunchy, spicy twist.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

Top with Tajín instead of plain chili powder for a citrusy kick.

Serve the corn sliced off the cob in a bowl (“esquites”) for easier eating.

storage/reheating

Elote is best enjoyed fresh off the grill.If needed, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes, then reapply toppings as desired.

FAQs

What cheese can I use if I can’t find cotija?

Feta is a great substitute for its similar salty, crumbly texture.

Can I make elote ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can grill the corn ahead and reheat before adding toppings.

Is elote spicy?

It can be mildly spicy depending on the amount of chili powder used—adjust to your preference.

Can I use frozen corn on the cob?

Yes, just thaw and dry them before grilling.

Do I have to grill the corn?

Grilling adds the classic smoky flavor, but you can roast or boil the corn in a pinch.

Can I make this dairy-free?

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

How do I make elote in the oven?

Roast the corn at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned.

Can I make it kid-friendly?

Yes, reduce or omit the chili powder for a milder version.

Do I need to use wooden sticks?

They’re optional but helpful for serving at parties or BBQs.

Can I use butter instead of mayonnaise?

Mayonnaise gives it the signature creamy texture, but butter can be used for a different, rich flavor.

Conclusion

Elote is a crowd-pleasing, mouthwatering way to enjoy corn that’s bursting with traditional Mexican street food flair. Whether you’re grilling for a barbecue or just craving a savory snack, this easy and bold dish adds excitement to any menu. Give it a try and bring a little fiesta to your table.