These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are bursting with flavor! Juicy steak paired with sweet corn and zesty toppings makes them a fantastic treat for taco lovers.
Who doesn’t love tacos, right? I mean, they’re portable and perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Just load them up and enjoy a fiesta in every bite!
I love topping mine with a squeeze of lime and some fresh cilantro. It’s a simple way to elevate those tasty flavors. Perfect for a fun dinner or a weekend cookout!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is great for grilling thanks to its lean nature. If you want alternatives, try sirloin or even skirt steak. These options are just as flavorful and grill-friendly!
Dan-O’s Seasoning: If you can’t find this seasoning, you can use a mix of garlic powder, paprika, and salt for a similar flavor. I enjoy making my own blends based on what spices I have on hand.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn is ideal, but frozen or canned corn works well too. If you have time, grill the corn for that smoky flavor. It adds depth to your tacos.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds a delightful creaminess. Feta also works wonderfully as a substitute. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe.
Tortillas: I prefer corn tortillas for their authentic taste, but soft flour tortillas are a nice alternative if you enjoy them more. Just pick what works for you!
How Do I Grill the Flank Steak Perfectly?
Grilling the flank steak can be tricky, but here are some easy steps to make it turn out great every time.
- Make sure the grill is hot before placing the steak. This helps to sear the meat and lock in juices.
- Season the steak well. Use enough seasoning, so it flavors the meat throughout.
- Cook the steak for 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer if you want to check doneness; around 130°F for medium-rare.
- Let it rest after grilling. This resting period helps juices redistribute, ensuring your steak is tasty and juicy.
How to Make Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb flank steak (or your choice of steak)
- 2 tbsp Dan-O’s seasoning (or your preferred steak seasoning)
- 4 small flour or corn tortillas
For the Elote Topping:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or roasted)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese as a substitute)
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Hot sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 minutes total to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and about 20 minutes cooking the steak and making the topping. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, heat up your grill to medium-high. This is important for getting the steak nice and juicy with great grill marks!
2. Season the Steak:
Generously sprinkle the flank steak with Dan-O’s seasoning, making sure it’s evenly coated. Seasoning helps to build flavor as the steak cooks.
3. Grill the Steak:
Place the seasoned steak on the grill. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on how well-done you like your steak. Once done, take it off the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps it stay juicy!
4. Prepare the Elote Topping:
While the steak rests, grab a bowl and mix together the corn, red onion, cilantro, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. This will be the delicious topping for your tacos!
5. Slice the Steak:
After your steak has rested, slice it against the grain into thin strips. This makes the meat tender and easier to bite into.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
Next, place the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. You want them soft and pliable so they can hold all the yummy fillings!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Place a few slices of the grilled steak in the center of each tortilla, and generously top it with the elote mixture you prepared.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately, and feel free to add hot sauce for some extra kick! Include lime wedges on the side for a little extra zing when you bite into your delicious tacos. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank steak is great for tacos, you can use any cut you prefer, such as skirt steak, sirloin, or even chicken or pork. Just adjust the grilling time as needed based on the thickness of the meat to ensure it’s cooked to your liking!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, separate the steak and elote mixture from the tortillas to maintain their texture. Use airtight containers to store each component in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak in a skillet over medium heat, and warm the tortillas briefly on the grill or in a microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Can I Make the Elote Topping Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the elote mixture ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This not only saves time but also lets the flavors meld together beautifully!
What’s a Good Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese is a great alternative! Alternatively, you can use crumbled queso fresco or even parmesan for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each cheese will slightly alter the taste of the tacos!
