Grilled Corn Elote Style

Sweet, smoky grilled corn slathered in creamy, tangy sauce with a sprinkle of cheese and chili—this Mexican street food classic is the ultimate summer side. Grilled Corn Elote Style brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your cookout, combining charred kernels with a luscious, flavorful sauce and a zesty finish that will have everyone coming back for more.

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This Grilled Corn Elote Style recipe transforms everyday corn into a show-stopping treat. The tangy sauce made from mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, and lime juice perfectly complements the smoky char from the grill, while the Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro add bursts of savory brightness. Serve it alongside your favorite grilled meats or tacos for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• Corn
  • 4 ears fresh corn, husked
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Sauce
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
• Toppings
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese or feta, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Additional chili powder, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).

2. Brush each ear of corn lightly with vegetable oil.

3. Place corn directly on the grill grates. Grill, turning occasionally, until charred and tender, about 12–15 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth.

5. When corn is grilled, remove from heat. While still warm, brush each ear generously with the sauce.

6. Sprinkle crumbled cheese and chopped cilantro over the sauced corn.

7. Dust lightly with extra chili powder for heat and serve with lime wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce or use chipotle powder. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option. Try topping with grated Parmesan if Cotija isn't available.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta or Parmesan if Cotija is unavailable. You can also adjust the chili powder level to suit your heat preference or use vegan alternatives for a dairy-free and egg-free version.

Serviervorschläge

Serve as a side for grilled meats, tacos, or as a party snack. Lime wedges add a fresh, zesty burst to each bite, making this dish an excellent accompaniment for any summer gathering.

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With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this Grilled Corn Elote Style recipe delivers maximum flavor with a touch of smoky, creamy, and tangy goodness. Perfect for summer get-togethers, it brings a bright and bold taste of Mexican street food right to your table.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you get smoky flavor on the corn?

Grill the corn directly over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until kernels are charred and smoky all over.

→ What can I use instead of Cotija cheese?

Try feta or grated Parmesan if Cotija is unavailable, both add a similar salty richness.

→ Is there a lighter sauce option?

Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and choose light mayonnaise for a fresher, lighter result.

→ Can this be made without a grill?

Yes, use a grill pan or broil corn in the oven, turning to achieve even charring.

→ How do you make it spicier?

Add cayenne or chipotle powder to the sauce, or dust extra chili powder over the finished corn.

→ Is this dish vegetarian and gluten-free?

Yes, all core ingredients are plant-based and naturally gluten-free. Use vegan sauce options if needed.