This Easy Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a fun and tasty treat! Sweet corn is grilled to perfection, then slathered in a creamy sauce and sprinkled with cheese and spices. Yum!
Making this elote always makes me happy! The best part is enjoying it fresh off the grill, with the creamy sauce dripping down. Just grab some napkins; it’s going to get messy! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh, sweet corn on the cob is best for this recipe. Frozen or canned corn can work in a pinch, but fresh really brings the flavors alive. When corn is in season, it’s a great idea to take advantage of that natural sweetness!
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt can be a healthy substitute if you prefer less fat. Just ensure to stir it well into the mixture for a nice smooth texture.
Sour Cream/Mexican Crema: Both work beautifully in this recipe, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, use low-fat sour cream. If crema is hard to find, you can make a similar blend with sour cream and a bit of milk to thin it.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese has a nice crumbly texture and a salty flavor. If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a great alternative, though it’s saltier, so adjust your salt later!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. If it’s not your thing, parsley can substitute effectively or even chives for a mild taste.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is key for that zest! Bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but fresh is always better for flavor.
How Do I Get the Corn Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling corn can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get it just right! Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. It’s crucial to keep an eye on the corn as it grills.
- Husk the corn and soak it in water for about 15-30 minutes before grilling to prevent it from drying out.
- Place the corn on the grill and turn it every few minutes to achieve even cooking and nice grill marks.
- Grill for about 10-15 minutes, until tender. You’ll know it’s done when the kernels are plump and juicy!
Let the corn cool slightly before brushing on that delicious crema sauce for an amazing flavor that makes this dish a hit!
Easy Elote with Crema Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corn:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
For the Crema Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious elote will take about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes gathering and mixing your ingredients, and around 15 minutes grilling the corn to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill going! Preheat it to medium-high heat. This will ensure your corn gets those lovely grill marks and cooks nicely.
2. Grill the Corn:
Once the grill is hot, place the husked corn directly on the grill. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the corn to be tender and to have those nice grill marks. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
3. Make the Crema Sauce:
While the corn is grilling, grab a bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or crema), lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the flavorful sauce that makes your elote special!
4. Brush on the Crema:
Once your corn is nicely grilled, take it off the heat. Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat each ear of corn with the creamy sauce you just made. Make sure every nook and cranny gets some!
5. Add the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese all over the coated corn. Don’t be shy—the more, the merrier! The cheese will stick nicely to the crema.
6. Garnish:
Now, it’s time to add some color! Sprinkle the chopped cilantro on top of the corn. If you like a little extra kick, you can add more chili powder as well.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious elote is ready! Serve it hot with some lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy this tasty treat!
Enjoy your delicious Elote!
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh Corn?
While fresh corn is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn kernels as an alternative. Just thaw and grill them in a grill basket for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Avoid using canned corn as it won’t give you the desired grilled taste.
What If I Don’t Have Cotija Cheese?
No worries! If cotija cheese is unavailable, you can substitute it with feta cheese or grated Parmesan for a similar salty flavor. Just make sure to crumble it finely so it sticks to the crema sauce!
Can I Make the Crema Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crema sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken a bit in the fridge.
How to Store Leftover Elote?
Store any leftover elote in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes, adding a splash of lime juice to freshen up the flavors.
