Ever had a dish that’s so deliciously messy, that you just can’t stop eating it? Enter elote — the classic Mexican street corn that’s a little sweet, a little spicy, and totally addictive. Imagine biting into charred, juicy corn on the cob, slathered in creamy, tangy, and cheesy goodness. It’s summer on a stick!
If you’ve been wondering how to make Mexican street corn, you’re in the right place. This recipe is quick, easy, and will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re grilling for a weekend BBQ or just want to shake up dinner on a Tuesday night, elote is your new best friend.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to whip up this Mexican street food favorite — and a few fun twists to keep things exciting.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Equipment
- Grill (or grill pan)
- Measuring cups
- Medium bowl
- Tall drinking glass (for dipping)
- Plate (for the cheese)
Ingredients
- 6 fresh ears of corn husks removed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice about 1 medium lime
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta/Parmesan if you can’t find cotija
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Husk and Prep the Corn: Remove the husks and silk, but leave some stalk attached for an easy handle.
- Heat the Grill: Fire up your gas or charcoal grill. You want it nice and hot! (A grill pan on the stovetop works too.)
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together: 1/2 cup mayo, 1/2 cup crema, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, Pour the sauce into a tall glass for easy dipping.
- Grill the Corn: Place the corn on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes until some kernels are charred and golden. This takes about 12-15 minutes.
- Dip and Roll: Let the corn cool for 5 minutes. Dip each ear into the sauce, turning to coat. Roll in crumbled cotija cheese until fully covered.
- Serve with Lime: Place the corn on a platter and serve with lime wedges for that final tangy kick.
Notes
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Cheese Substitutes: Use feta or Parmesan if cotija is unavailable.
- Serving Tip: Try serving elote in a cup (esquites) for a portable snack option.
Recipe Variations to Keep Things Interesting
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists on classic elote:
Mexican Street Corn Dip
Turn your favorite flavors into a party-perfect dip! Just mix:
- Grilled corn kernels
- Mayo
- Crema
- Cotija cheese
- Chili powder and lime juice
Serve with tortilla chips and watch it disappear.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
If you love salads, try elote off-the-cob! Combine:
- Grilled corn
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced jalapeños
- Cotija cheese
- A creamy lime dressing
Perfect for picnics or potlucks!
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Add grilled corn to your favorite pasta with a creamy, zesty dressing. Think of it as the ultimate BBQ side dish.
No Cotija Cheese? No Problem!
Substitute with:
- Feta cheese for a similar salty tang
- Parmesan cheese for a nutty twist
For the crema, you can easily use sour cream or crème fraîche thinned with a splash of milk.
Why You Need to Make Elote This Summer
Mexican street corn isn’t just a dish — it’s an experience. It’s the perfect side for grilling season, a fun snack for gatherings, and a fantastic way to enjoy summer’s freshest corn.
So, fire up that grill and give this recipe a shot. You’ll be hooked after the first messy, delicious bite. And hey, isn’t that what summer eating is all about?
Craving More Mexican-Inspired Recipes?
Loved the bold and delicious flavors of Mexican street corn? Let’s keep the inspiration going! Here are a few more recipes that bring the taste of Mexico straight to your table. Whether you’re looking for something warm, refreshing, or a bit lighter, there’s plenty to explore.
- Menudo Soup
This traditional soup combines tender beef tripe, chewy hominy, and a deeply flavorful broth made with dried chiles. It’s a hearty dish that’s great for a special meal or a lazy weekend. Every bite is a mix of satisfying textures and warm spices. - Mexican Hot Chocolate
For a simple treat, try this Mexican hot chocolate. Made with real Mexican chocolate and a touch of cinnamon, it’s rich and creamy without being heavy. Perfect for unwinding after dinner or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself. - Zucchini Enchiladas
Craving enchiladas but want a lighter option? These zucchini enchiladas swap out tortillas for thin slices of zucchini. Filled with shredded chicken, tangy enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, they’re just as satisfying and full of flavor.
Which recipe will you make next? Share your favorites in the comments or tag us with your creations—we can’t wait to see!
Did you make this Recipe?
Please let me know how this recipe turned out for you! Leave a comment below, tag @foodiecreator on Instagram, and hashtag #foodiecreator.
Happy grilling!
