Grilled Mexican Street Corn

Name: Grilled Mexican Street Corn
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Ears of corn, husked; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 1/2 cup Sour cream; 1 cup Crumbled cotija cheese; 1 tablespoon Chili powder; 1 piece Lime, juiced; to taste Salt; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lime wedges (for serving)

BY :

Luna Henderson

Posted On :

December 1, 2025

Appetizers

Are you ready to elevate your summer barbecues with a dish that sings of sunshine and vibrant flavors? Look no further than Grilled Mexican Street Corn, also known as Elote. This irresistible street food staple from Mexico is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes! With its smoky grilled flavor, creamy toppings, and a sprinkle of chili powder, every bite is a celebration. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, a family cookout, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.

In this article, we will explore why you will love this recipe, how to make it step-by-step, tips and variations to suit your preferences, and even the nutritional benefits of this scrumptious dish. Plus, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your Grilled Mexican Street Corn turns out perfectly every time. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Mexican Street Corn offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it an instant favorite. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will capture your heart:

Bold Flavors: The combination of smoky grilled corn, tangy lime, and savory cotija cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and is incredibly easy to make. Perfect for both experienced chefs and beginners alike!
Customizable: Whether you prefer it spicy, creamy, or with a twist of your own, this recipe allows for plenty of variations to suit your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as a side dish at barbecues, a snack at parties, or a delicious addition to a Mexican meal.
Healthier Alternative: Using fresh ingredients means you can enjoy this delicious treat without the guilt!

With each bite of Grilled Mexican Street Corn, you will experience the warmth and vibrancy of Mexican cuisine. It’s not just food; it’s a celebration of culture and community. Imagine sharing this dish with friends and family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Trust us, this dish will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Still on the fence about trying Grilled Mexican Street Corn? Let’s delve deeper into the benefits of this delightful dish:

Social Food: Grilled corn is often enjoyed at fairs and festivals, making it a nostalgic and communal dish. Bringing this recipe home allows you to recreate that joy.
Fresh and Seasonal: Corn is a summer staple, and grilled corn brings out its natural sweetness. This recipe is a perfect way to utilize fresh, seasonal produce.
Easy Cleanup: Grilling corn is a simple process that minimizes mess. Plus, you can cook it right on the grill alongside your other barbecue favorites.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love corn, and this recipe is a fun way to introduce them to new flavors. The creamy, cheesy topping makes it irresistible to young palates.
Party Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress your guests and spark conversations.

Trying out Grilled Mexican Street Corn will not only satisfy your cravings but also expand your cooking skills. Plus, the compliments you receive will be a cherry on top of your culinary adventure!

Ingredients and Utensils Needed

To make the best Grilled Mexican Street Corn, you will need the following ingredients and utensils:

Ingredients

4 ears of corn, husked
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 lime, juiced
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

Recommended Utensils

Grill (gas or charcoal)
Grill brush (for cleaning)
Medium bowl (for mixing ingredients)
Brush (for applying the mayonnaise mixture)
Tongs (for turning the corn on the grill)
Paper towels (for drying the corn)
Serving platter

Having the right ingredients and utensils on hand is crucial for the success of your Grilled Mexican Street Corn. Make sure you choose fresh corn for the best flavor and quality, and gather all your tools to streamline the cooking process.

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have all your ingredients and utensils ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important to ensure that the corn cooks evenly and develops a nice char.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Next, husk the corn and remove all silk strands. Rinse the corn under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. This will help remove any residual dirt and ensure even grilling.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Place the corn directly on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the corn to be nicely charred and cooked through. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. The charred bits add a wonderful flavor!

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the corn is grilling, take a medium bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and salt. Stir until well combined. This creamy mixture is what gives your corn that delicious, rich flavor.

Step 5: Cool and Coat the Corn

Once the corn is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Then, use a brush to generously coat each ear of corn with the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring they are well covered. This is where the flavor begins to shine!

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the corn while the mayonnaise mixture is still wet, allowing it to adhere perfectly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish your Grilled Mexican Street Corn with fresh cilantro and an additional sprinkle of chili powder, if desired. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty punch.

Cooking tips:

For the best flavor, use fresh corn rather than frozen or canned.
Adjust the level of chili powder depending on your spice preference.
For extra smokiness, consider using a charcoal grill.

Tips and Variations

As with any recipe, there’s always room for creativity! Here are some suggestions for variations and tips to make your Grilled Mexican Street Corn even more special:

Alternative Ingredients

Vegan Version: Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative. Nutritional yeast can be sprinkled for a cheesy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños into the mayonnaise mixture for a spicy twist. You can also use spicy chili powder or hot sauce to amp up the heat.
Cheese Alternatives: If cotija is unavailable, feta cheese or even grated Parmesan can be used as substitutes.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Make sure not to over-grill the corn, as it can become tough. Aim for a nice char without burning.
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Always taste your sauce before applying it to the corn. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

With these tips and variations, you can personalize your Grilled Mexican Street Corn to suit your taste and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this dish your own!

Nutritional Values and Benefits

Let’s take a look at the nutritional content of Grilled Mexican Street Corn and the health benefits of its key ingredients:

Per serving of this delectable corn dish, you can expect:

Calories: 250
Protein: 6g
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: 300mg

Health Benefits

Corn: A great source of fiber, vitamins B and C, and essential minerals, corn is also packed with antioxidants.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese is high in calcium, which is important for bone health.
Lime Juice: Rich in vitamin C, lime juice boosts the immune system and adds refreshing flavors to dishes.
Cilantro: Not only does cilantro add a fresh taste, but it also contains beneficial antioxidants and may help detoxify heavy metals from the body.

By enjoying Grilled Mexican Street Corn, you’re indulging in a delicious dish while also benefiting from its wholesome ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Mexican Street Corn?

Grilled Mexican Street Corn, known as Elote, is a popular Mexican street food made from grilled corn on the cob coated with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, and spices.

Can I make Grilled Mexican Street Corn vegan?

Yes! You can make a vegan version by using vegan mayonnaise and a plant-based sour cream alternative, along with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What can I serve with Grilled Mexican Street Corn?

Grilled Mexican Street Corn pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a vibrant salad. It can also be served as a stand-alone snack!

How do I store leftover Grilled Mexican Street Corn?

You can store leftover corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in the oven for best results.

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

While fresh corn is best for flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn. Just grill it in a grill basket or foil until heated through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Grilled Mexican Street Corn is a fantastic dish that promises bold flavors, exciting textures, and endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or looking to experiment with your own twists, this dish is versatile enough to suit any palate. We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every mouthwatering bite.

Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below! If you love this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and check out our other delicious recipes at Lentil Soup or Pumpkin Soup. For more culinary inspiration, follow us on Pinterest: Recipes Luna Blog. Happy cooking!