Grilled Corn Elote Style (Print Version)

Smoky corn gets a creamy, tangy, cheesy finish with chili and lime for the perfect summer side.

# What You Need:

→ Corn

01 - 4 ears fresh corn, husked
02 - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

→ Sauce

03 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
04 - 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
05 - 1 clove garlic, minced
06 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
07 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - Salt, to taste

→ Toppings

10 - 1/2 cup Cotija cheese or feta, crumbled
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
12 - Lime wedges, for serving
13 - Additional chili powder, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Set grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, about 400°F.
02 - Brush each husked ear of corn lightly with vegetable oil.
03 - Place corn directly on grill grates. Rotate occasionally until the kernels are well charred and tender, approximately 12 to 15 minutes.
04 - In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine mayonnaise, sour cream or Mexican crema, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth.
05 - Once corn is grilled, remove from heat. While still hot, brush each ear generously with sauce.
06 - Scatter crumbled Cotija cheese or feta and chopped cilantro over corn. Dust lightly with additional chili powder, and serve immediately with lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes.
  • Perfectly smoky grilled corn paired with a creamy, tangy sauce.
  • Classic Mexican street food flavor that is great as a side or party snack.
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free, suitable for many diets.
02 -
  • Use a basting brush to evenly coat the corn with oil and sauce for best results.
  • Maintain medium-high heat to achieve a good char without burning.
  • Prepare the sauce ahead of time to let flavors meld before grilling.
  • Serve immediately while the corn is warm and the sauce fresh for maximum flavor.
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