This Easy Elote recipe brings delicious corn on the cob to life with creamy mexicana sauce! Topped with cheese and spices, it’s a fun, tasty side dish everyone loves.
You can’t go wrong with corn smothered in yummy sauce. Honestly, I could eat this every day! Just slather it on, sprinkle some cheese, and enjoy—simple happiness on a stick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob gives the best flavor. Look for sweet, plump kernels while husking. If corn isn’t in season, frozen corn can work—just grill it in a grill basket.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese is traditional for elote. Feta cheese is a perfect alternative if cotija is hard to find. It brings a similar salty tang.
Mayonnaise: I like using mayonnaise for creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a great lighter option. It adds a nice tang that complements the corn well.
Chili Powder: Adjust the spice to your liking! You can use smoked paprika or even taco seasoning for a different flavor twist.
Cilantro: If you aren’t a fan of cilantro, try fresh parsley instead. It’ll still add freshness without the strong flavor.
How Do I Grill Corn to Get That Perfect Char?
Grilling corn can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Here’s how to get that perfect char:
- Preheat your grill on medium-high heat. A hot grill ensures good charring.
- Place husked corn directly on the grill. Turn every few minutes to char all sides.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes until charred and tender. If you like a deeper char, leave it a bit longer.
- Keep an eye on it! Corn can burn quickly if left unattended.
Enjoy the smoky flavor that grilling adds to your elote! The charring brings out sweetness and adds depth to the overall dish.
How to Make Easy Elote (Mexican Street Corn) with Crema Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Elote:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
For the Crema Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Extra lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook the corn on the grill. In total, you can expect to spend about 20 minutes to enjoy delicious elote with crema sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting that nice char on the corn!
2. Grill the Corn:
Place the husked corn directly on the grill. Grill the corn, turning occasionally so it cooks evenly, for about 10 to 15 minutes or until it’s nicely charred and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when you see those beautiful grill marks!
3. Prepare the Crema Sauce:
While the corn is grilling, grab a bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, and salt. Stir everything well until it’s nicely combined. This creamy sauce is what makes the elote so delicious!
4. Brush the Corn:
Once the corn is done grilling, carefully remove it from the grill and let it cool for a minute or two. Then, take your crema sauce and brush it generously over each ear of corn, making sure to coat every kernel.
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the sauced corn. Make sure to distribute it evenly for that tasty cheese goodness in every bite!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off by garnishing with chopped cilantro and an extra sprinkle of chili powder if you like a bit more spice. Serve the elote warm with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over just before you take a big bite!
Enjoy your delicious Easy Elote with Crema Sauce! It’s a simple yet scrumptious treat!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn! However, it’s best to grill the corn on the cob if you can find frozen corn on the cob. If using frozen kernels, thaw them first and roast them in a hot skillet or grill pan for a few minutes until charred, and then proceed with the crema sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta is a great alternative! It has a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor. You can also use queso fresco, which works well, but has a milder taste.
Can I Make the Crema Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crema sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate a bit while sitting.
How Should I Store Leftover Elote?
If you have leftover elote, wrap the corn in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can grill or microwave it until warmed through, then refresh the crema and toppings before serving.
