Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Description
Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elote, is a smoky, creamy, and flavor-packed corn dish coated in a rich sauce with lime, garlic, and cheese. Grilled to perfection and loaded with bold Mexican-inspired flavors, this popular street food makes the perfect summer side dish for BBQs, cookouts, taco nights, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4–6 ears fresh corn, husks removed
- 1 tablespoon oil
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or Tajín seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brush corn lightly with oil.
- Grill corn over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred.
(You can also roast or air fry the corn if preferred.) - In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, and lime juice until smooth.
- Brush or spread the creamy mixture over the hot grilled corn.
- Sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder or Tajín, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Serve immediately with extra lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- Cotija cheese gives authentic street corn flavor.
- Fresh lime juice brightens the creamy sauce.
- Charring the corn adds smoky sweetness.
Tips
- Add hot sauce for extra heat.
- Use frozen corn kernels for an easy off-the-cob version.
- Serve alongside tacos, grilled meats, or burgers.
Servings
4–6 servings
Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
Benefits
- Great source of fiber
- Fresh and flavorful side dish
- Perfect for summer cookouts
- Easy customizable toppings
- Sweet, smoky, creamy flavor combination
Q&A
Can I make this without a grill?
Yes, roast the corn in the oven or cook in an air fryer.
What cheese works best?
Cotija is traditional, but feta works well too.
Can I make it lighter?
Yes, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayo.
Is it spicy?
Mildly spicy, but you can adjust seasoning to taste.
What dishes pair well with Mexican street corn?
Tacos, grilled chicken, burgers, steak, or rice bowls.