This Easy Elote is a tasty twist on Mexican street corn, slathered in a creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible! It’s grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor.
Add some lime juice and cheese on top, and you have a snack that everyone loves! I can’t resist grabbing a second piece every time. It’s on my go-to list for summer BBQs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob gives the best flavor. If it’s out of season, you can use frozen corn; just thaw it first. Some people prefer sweet corn, while others enjoy yellow corn for its richer taste.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well here. You can also use vegan mayo if you’re looking for a plant-based choice.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese is signature for elote. If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a great substitute. Just be aware that it can be saltier, so adjust your seasoning accordingly!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is the best for brightening the flavors. Bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but the taste might not be as vibrant.
Chili Powder: This is where you can play around with heat. Use smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor or cayenne pepper if you like it spicy. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
How Do I Grill Corn for Perfectly Charred Kernels?
Grilling corn might seem tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it! The goal is to achieve that tasty char while keeping the corn tender inside.
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high; too hot and the corn may burn quickly.
- Place the husked corn directly on the grill. Turn it every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Watch for the kernels to become slightly charred and tender, which takes about 10-12 minutes.
- For the best results, consider soaking the corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This helps keep it moist and can enhance the flavor.
How to Make Easy Elote with Crema Sauce?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Elote:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
For the Crema Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (plus extra for topping)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes total. You’ll need about 10-12 minutes to grill the corn and just a few minutes to prepare the crema sauce. It’s quick and perfect for a delicious side or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help the corn get that nice char we love!
2. Grill the Corn:
Place the husked corn directly on the grill grates. Turn the corn occasionally, letting it cook for about 10-12 minutes, until the kernels are charred and tender. Once done, remove the corn from the grill and let it cool for a bit.
3. Prepare the Crema Sauce:
While the corn is grilling, grab a mixing bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled cotija cheese, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well-mixed! This sauce will add a fabulous flavor.
4. Coat the Corn:
Once the corn has cooled down a little, use a brush or spoon to generously coat each ear of corn with your delicious crema sauce. Make sure to cover it well for maximum flavor!
5. Add Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle some extra crumbled cotija cheese over the sauced corn for a tasty garnish. Don’t forget to add freshly chopped cilantro on top!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the elote warm with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before eating for an extra zing. Enjoy your tasty treat!
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen corn! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture. Keep in mind that grilled corn on the cob gives the best flavor and texture, so if possible, stick to fresh corn.
What If I Don’t Have Cotija Cheese?
No worries! If you can’t find cotija, you can substitute it with feta cheese or Parmesan. While the flavor may differ slightly, both options will still give a nice salty finish to your elote.
How to Store Leftover Crema Sauce?
Store any unused crema sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s great on tacos, salads, or as a dip! Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate a bit over time.
Can I Make the Crema Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crema sauce a day in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This also allows the flavors to meld nicely together, making it even tastier when you’re ready to use it!
