Name: Grilled Corn Elote
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn on the cob; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Print Recipe

There’s something undeniably mouthwatering about the smell of grilled corn elote wafting through the air, isn’t there? The sweet, smoky aroma mingles with the sizzle of charred kernels, creating a sensory experience that makes your taste buds tingle in anticipation. juicy steak bites for grilling Imagine biting into juicy corn slathered in creamy, zesty goodness while your friends gather around, all of you swapping stories and laughter. This is not just food; it’s pure joy on a cob. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.

I can still hear my grandma’s laughter ringing in my ears as she served her famous grilled corn elote at family picnics. It was always the centerpiece of our gatherings, a dish that united us over shared smiles and sticky fingers. perfect appetizer for gatherings Whether it’s a summer barbecue or an impromptu backyard fiesta, this delightful recipe promises to elevate any occasion and leave everyone clamoring for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Grilled corn elote offers a delightful blend of flavors that dance on your palate
It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings
The vibrant presentation adds an eye-catching element to your table
Plus, this dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed as a side or star attraction!

My friends still rave about how I brought grilled corn elote to last year’s block party—it stole the show! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious Mexican side dish.

Fresh Corn on the Cob: Look for bright green husks and plump kernels; they guarantee sweetness in every bite.
Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayonnaise for a rich, creamy texture that clings perfectly to the corn.
Cotija Cheese: Crumbled cotija adds a salty punch—don’t skip this crucial ingredient!
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the dish and balances richness with its zesty tang.
Chili Powder: A sprinkle of chili powder brings heat and depth; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color—use it generously! fresh and vibrant salad bowl.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Ensuring it’s hot will give you those beautiful char marks we crave.

Prep the Corn: Remove husks and silk from fresh corn cobs while savoring that sweet smell. Be sure to snap off any broken ends for neat grilling.

Grill the Corn: Place corn directly on the grill grates for about 10-15 minutes. Rotate occasionally until lightly charred—let those grill marks do their magic!

Create Your Topping Mix: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and half of the cotija cheese. Mix until smooth—this is where flavor heaven begins!

Coat the Corn: Once grilled to perfection, remove corn from heat. Generously slather your creamy topping mixture over each cob and listen for those “oohs” and “aahs”.

Add Final Touches: Sprinkle remaining cotija cheese over the top along with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately while it’s warm and enjoy every last bite!

Now you’re all set to impress friends and family with your delicious grilled corn elote!

You Must Know

Grilled corn elote is not just delicious; it’s a festival of flavors
The charred sweetness of the corn, combined with creamy toppings, creates an unforgettable experience
It’s perfect for summer gatherings but can easily brighten up any meal throughout the year

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by soaking the corn in water for about 30 minutes to ensure moisture during grilling. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook each ear for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are perfectly charred.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional toppings like mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist. Adding spices like chili powder or lime zest can also elevate the flavor profile of your grilled corn elote.

Storing & Reheating

To store grilled corn elote, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat on a grill or stovetop skillet over medium heat until heated through, avoiding microwave use to maintain texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that perfect char on your corn, don’t rush the grilling process; patience is key
Use fresh ingredients for toppings as they enhance flavor significantly
Always taste your seasoning before serving; it makes all the difference in flavor balance

Sharing my first attempt at making grilled corn elote was hilarious! Friends raved about it, and I learned quickly that too much cheese can lead to a sticky situation—literally!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make grilled corn elote ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can grill the corn a few hours in advance and keep it warm in foil until serving. Just add your toppings right before serving for freshness.

What toppings are best for grilled corn elote?

Traditional toppings include cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder. However, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs to personalize your dish!

How do I know when my corn is done grilling?

Look for a nice char on each ear; this usually takes about 10-15 minutes on medium-high heat. The kernels should be tender but not mushy when pierced with a fork.