There’s a certain joy that emerges from the sizzling sound of corn grilling, infusing the air with a smoky sweetness that beckons everyone to the table. I first encountered this vibrant Mexican Street Corn (Elote) at a summer fair, where I was charmed by the combination of creamy sauces and zesty toppings that brought a touch of magic to a simple ear of corn. Each bite is a delightful journey—sweet, tangy, and fabulously rich.
This Elotes recipe is the answer to what to serve at your next barbecue or family gathering. It’s effortlessly simple, yet oh-so-memorable, making it the perfect side dish for those longing for a break from fast food and everyday meals. With fresh corn, a luscious mayo sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese, this dish embodies comfort food at its finest. Ready to bring the delicious flavors of Mexican street food into your home? Let’s dive into this easy grilled version that’s guaranteed to wow your taste buds!
Why is this Elotes Recipe a must-try?
Irresistible flavors: This Elotes recipe delivers an explosion of taste, combining smoky grilled corn with creamy sauces and zesty toppings that make every bite memorable.
Effortlessly simple: Perfect for busy home cooks, this recipe requires minimal prep time while still offering impressive results that will impress your guests.
Ultimate comfort food: The blend of fresh ingredients creates a hearty side that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters, serving as a delightful break from fast food.
Versatile pairing: Great alongside tacos, grilled meats, or as a standalone dish at any summer barbecue, the possibilities are endless!
Crowd-pleaser: With its unique flavors and appealing presentation, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your gatherings, enticing everyone to come back for seconds!
Elotes Recipe Ingredients
For the Corn
• Corn – Use fresh ears with tight-fitting husks for the best flavor and texture.
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Adds a rich creaminess and moisture that elevates the dish.
• Sour Cream – Provides a slight tang, enhancing the depth of flavor in the Elotes recipe.
• Sriracha – Introduces a kick of heat; adjust the amount to suit your taste preference.
• Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the sauce.
• Chicken Stock – Enhances flavor and moisture; swap it with vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning, bringing out all the other flavors.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of mild heat and depth to the overall taste.
• Sugar – Balances the acidity, bringing harmony to the dish.
For Toppings
• Cotija Cheese – Brings a salty, crumbly texture; feta can be used as a tasty alternative.
• Cilantro – Adds a fresh brightness, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.
• Ground Chili Powder – For an extra layer of spice; adjust according to your spice preference.
How to Make Elotes Recipe
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Preheat the Grill: Start by heating a grill pan over medium heat. You’ll want it nice and warm to char the corn evenly, about 10 minutes.
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Grill the Corn: Roast the corn in its husks, turning occasionally to achieve a uniform char. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color indicating it’s ready!
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Cool and Shuck: Once the corn is charred, carefully set it aside to cool. Once it’s manageable, shuck the corn and cut the kernels off the cob into a bowl.
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Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Sriracha, lime juice, chicken stock, salt, black pepper, and sugar until smooth and well combined.
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Warm the Corn: In a skillet over medium-low heat, add the corn kernels and pour in the creamy sauce mixture. Gently sauté until everything is heated through, creating a delightful aroma.
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Garnish and Serve: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Top with crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder for that perfect finish. Serve warm!
Optional: A squeeze of additional lime juice brightens the flavors even more.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Elotes Recipe
Fridge: Store leftover elotes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain its creamy texture before serving.
Freezer: Freeze elotes in a airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to revive the sauce.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly and prevent sticking.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving elotes at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Elotes Recipe are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can grill the corn and prepare the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply shuck the corn and store it, along with the sauce, in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, the flavors will meld beautifully and ensure your elotes are just as delicious as when freshly made. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the corn in a skillet over medium-low heat and stir in the sauce until warmed through. Garnish with cotija cheese and cilantro just before serving for that fresh and vibrant touch!
Elotes Recipe Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful takes on the classic elotes recipe for a twist on this comfort food staple!
- Frozen Corn: Use thawed frozen corn for convenience; it’s a great substitute when fresh corn isn’t available.
- Vegan Delight: Swap mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives for a delicious plant-based version without compromising flavor.
- Cheese Change: Experiment with feta or Parmesan instead of cotija for a different creamy texture and taste experience.
- Oven-Baked Elotes: Roast the corn in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes to achieve a smoky yet sweet flavor without the grill.
- Spiced Up: Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick; their heat complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
- Herbed Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint with the cilantro for an aromatic twist on the classic recipe.
- Creamy Avocado: Mix in mashed avocado to the sauce for an ultra-creamy texture and a fresh flavor boost; the richness elevates every bite.
- Citrus Zing: A dash of orange juice in the sauce adds a unique citrus note that brightens the dish and enhances the corn’s sweetness.
Expert Tips for Elotes Recipe
• Choose Fresh Corn: Select ears with tight-fitting husks for maximum sweetness and tenderness; avoid corn with dry or yellowing husks.
• Control the Heat: Adjust Sriracha to personal taste; start with a small amount and taste before adding more to ensure the right spice level for your Elotes recipe.
• Don’t Overcook the Corn: Aim for golden-brown char on the corn; overcooking can make it tough and chewy, detracting from its delightful flavor.
• Mix It Up: Feel free to experiment with toppings; try adding diced avocado or hot sauce for a twist on the traditional flavors of your Elotes recipe.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the corn warm shortly after mixing with the sauce to enjoy its creamy, comforting texture.
What to Serve with Elotes Recipe?
As you gather around with family and friends, these creamy, zesty bites of elote will delightfully complement a variety of dishes, creating a memorable meal experience.
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Grilled Tacos: Juicy grilled tacos stuffed with marinated meats or veggies provide a delightful contrast and balanced meal that echoes the vibrant flavors of elote. The char from the grill ties everything together beautifully.
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Spicy Shrimp: Tender, seasoned shrimp bring a subtle kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness and creaminess of the corn. Each bite offers a delightful mix of spicy and refreshing.
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Chili-Rubbed Chicken: The smoky, spicy flavor of chili-rubbed chicken enhances the rich corn flavors while adding a satisfying protein element, perfect for a summer BBQ.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus adds color and fresh, earthy notes that beautifully balance the richness of the elote. The varied textures will tantalize your taste buds.
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Mexican Rice: Flavorful, fluffy Mexican rice stuffed with spices creates a comforting side that rounds out the meal while beautifully complementing the elote’s creamy taste and texture.
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Fresh Salsa: A vibrant, zesty salsa made from tomatoes, jalapeños, and onion brightens the plate, adding freshness and crunch to every mouthful of elote you take.
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Margaritas: Cool, tangy margaritas add a festive touch, making them the perfect drink pairing as you savor the creamy richness of the elote, creating a lively summer experience.
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Churros: For dessert, crispy churros dusted with cinnamon sugar playfully contrast with the creamy elote, leaving everyone with a sweet memory to wrap up the meal.
Elotes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best corn for this Elotes recipe?
Absolutely! The key to delicious elotes is selecting fresh corn with tight-fitting husks. Look for ears that feel plump and heavy; the kernels should be bright yellow and not overly dried out. Avoid corn with dark spots or a mushy texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover Elotes?
For maximum freshness, store any leftover elotes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. This will help maintain its creamy texture and flavorful sauce.
Can I freeze the Elotes?
Yes! To freeze your elotes, allow it to cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to restore the creamy sauce texture.
What if my corn becomes tough while grilling?
Very! If your corn turns out tough, it may have been overcooked. Aim for that beautiful golden-brown char while grilling, which should take about 10 minutes. To enhance its texture, remove the corn from the grill as soon as it has been charred but is still tender.
Are there dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Elotes recipe is versatile for dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock. For those with dairy allergies, there are vegan mayonnaise and sour cream alternatives available that work beautifully in this recipe.
How can I customize the toppings for my Elotes?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with toppings. Besides cotija cheese, you can try crumbled feta, diced avocado, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor. Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or even a sprinkle of lime zest to elevate your Elotes experience!
Irresistible Elotes Recipe: Grilled Mexican Corn Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Grill: Start by heating a grill pan over medium heat. You'll want it nice and warm to char the corn evenly, about 10 minutes.
- Grill the Corn: Roast the corn in its husks, turning occasionally to achieve a uniform char. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Cool and Shuck: Once the corn is charred, carefully set it aside to cool. Once it's manageable, shuck the corn and cut the kernels off the cob into a bowl.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Sriracha, lime juice, chicken stock, salt, black pepper, and sugar until smooth.
- Warm the Corn: In a skillet over medium-low heat, add the corn kernels and pour in the creamy sauce mixture. Gently sauté until heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Top with crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder.