This easy elote brings the taste of Mexico right to your grill! It’s grilled corn slathered in creamy sauce, topped with cheese and spices that make it super yummy.
Honestly, if you think you’ll only eat one, you’re in for a surprise! I love piling on that crema and cheese—it’s just so good! 🌽😋
Making it is a breeze! Just fire up the grill, cook the corn, mix the sauce, and you’re ready for a tasty treat. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy nights in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Corn: The star of this dish! Look for plump, bright yellow kernels with green, fresh husks. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can use frozen corn as an alternative. Just grill it until heated through.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These give creaminess to your sauce. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider using a dairy-free sour cream or Greek yogurt. I sometimes mix in a bit of avocado for a unique twist!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime adds zing! If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice works too, although it may lack the fresh taste. I find that adding a bit of lime zest enhances the flavor even further.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese is key for authenticity. If you can’t find it, crumbled feta is a great substitute. For a vegan option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a milder substitute. I’ve even used green onions in a pinch for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Grill Corn to Perfection?
Grilling corn is simple, but attention to detail makes a big difference. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the corn gets a nice char without burning.
- Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to enhance flavor.
- Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning it occasionally. This helps with even cooking and caramelizes the sugars in the corn.
- Look for a golden brown color and some charred bits; that’s when you know it’s ready!
Let your corn cool slightly before adding the crema for best results. This way, the sauce sticks better and won’t melt away!
How to Make Easy Elote with Crema Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Elote:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Salt, to taste
For the Crema Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your heat preference)
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or use feta cheese)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious elote recipe requires about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 10-15 minutes of grilling time. In total, you need around 30 minutes to make this flavorful dish—and it’s well worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your corn gets those lovely grill marks and a nice smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the Corn:
Husk the corn and brush each ear with olive oil. Don’t forget to sprinkle a pinch of salt over the corn to enhance its natural sweetness.
3. Grill the Corn:
Place the corn on the hot grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning it occasionally to get an even char. You want the corn to be tender and have beautiful grill marks.
4. Make the Crema Sauce:
While the corn is grilling, let’s prepare the crema sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, and a little salt. Add in half of the chopped cilantro and mix well. Set the sauce aside for later.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the corn is nicely charred, take it off the grill and let it cool for a minute. Then, generously brush the warm corn with your homemade crema sauce.
6. Top It Off:
Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the creamy corn and add the remaining cilantro for that fresh flavor boost. If you love lime, serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
7. Enjoy!
Your easy elote is now ready to serve! Grab a piece, take a bite, and savor the deliciousness. Enjoy this tasty treat with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh Corn?
While fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn if needed. Simply thaw and drain the frozen corn, then grill it in a grill basket or on a grillable surface for 5-10 minutes until heated through and slightly charred.
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese is a great substitute that will still give you that creamy texture and salty flavor. Alternatively, you can use Parmesan or even goat cheese for a different twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Elote?
To store leftovers, keep the corn and crema sauce separate if possible. Wrap the corn in aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The crema sauce can be stored in a sealed container for about a week. To reheat, warm the corn on the grill or in the microwave before adding the crema sauce back on.
Can I Prepare the Crema Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the crema sauce a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using, and feel free to adjust the seasoning or lime juice to taste before serving.
