20-Minute Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
This authentic Mexican street corn features charred corn on the cob slathered with a creamy mayo-sour cream mixture and topped with crumbly cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh cilantro. The combination of smoky grilled corn, tangy lime, and rich toppings creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Elote is ideal as a side dish for barbecues, Mexican meals, or enjoyed as a satisfying snack. The key to authentic elote is getting a good char on the corn and using traditional cotija cheese for its distinctive salty, crumbly texture.
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn
- 1 lime, quartered
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sour cream or Mexican crema
- ½ cup cotija cheese, finely crumbled
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- 1
Heat outdoor grill or grill pan over medium heat
- 2
Place corn directly on grill and close lid
- 3
Cook for 10 minutes rotating every few minutes for even char
- 4
Transfer corn to plate and squeeze lime juice over while warm
- 5
Stick wooden stick in end as handle if desired
- 6
Stir together mayonnaise and sour cream in small bowl
- 7
Brush thick layer of mayo mixture all over each corn
- 8
Sprinkle cotija cheese all over each piece
- 9
Sprinkle with chili powder and chopped cilantro
- 10
Serve immediately while warm
Tips
Use a grill pan indoors if you don't have access to an outdoor grill for similar charring results.
Insert wooden sticks into the corn ends before serving to create easy-to-hold handles like authentic street vendors do.
Apply the mayo mixture while corn is still warm so it adheres better and creates the perfect creamy coating.
Good to Know
Best consumed immediately after preparation
Corn can be grilled up to 2 hours ahead and reheated before adding toppings
Serve immediately while corn is still warm for best texture and flavor
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the lime juice while corn is warm as it helps flavors penetrate better
Avoid over-grilling which can make kernels tough and chewy
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this without a grill?
Yes, you can roast corn in a 425°F oven for 20-25 minutes or use a grill pan on the stovetop for similar charred results.
What if I can't find cotija cheese?
Substitute with crumbled queso fresco, feta cheese, or even grated parmesan, though the flavor will be slightly different from traditional elote.
How long does leftover elote keep?
Elote is best eaten fresh, but leftover corn can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days and reheated gently before serving.