Description
This Mexican Street Corn recipe, also known as Elote, features fresh grilled corn slathered in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice, then generously topped with crumbly cotija cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, and fresh cilantro. It’s a flavorful, authentic side dish perfect for summer barbecues or anytime you crave a vibrant, savory treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Corn and Toppings
- 4 ears fresh corn (husks removed)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese (crumbled)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
- Salt to taste
Mayo Mixture
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to get it hot and ready for cooking.
- Grill the Corn: Place the ears of corn directly on the grill. Turn them occasionally to ensure they are evenly charred in spots and cooked tender, which should take about 8–10 minutes.
- Mix the Creamy Sauce: While the corn is grilling, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Coat the Corn: When the corn has finished grilling and is still warm, brush each ear generously with the mayo mixture to coat.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the cotija cheese over the coated corn, then dust with chili powder and smoked paprika for that signature smoky and spicy kick.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing with chopped cilantro and serving with fresh lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.
Notes
- If cotija cheese isn’t available, substitute with feta cheese or grated Parmesan for a similar tangy flavor and texture.
- For a fun variation, cut the grilled corn kernels off the cob after coating and toss everything together in a bowl to make a street corn salad.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder and smoked paprika for your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
