This Easy Elote is a tasty treat made with corn on the cob slathered in a creamy sauce. You’ll love the mix of flavors from mayo, cheese, and spices that make every bite delicious!
I can’t resist having this as a quick snack or party appetizer. It’s messy but worth it! Just grab a napkin and dig in—it’s corn heaven on a stick! 🌽😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is the star here! Sweet corn on the cob adds amazing flavor. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can use frozen corn, but grilling really brings out the best taste.
Mexican Crema: This creamy ingredient is similar to sour cream but richer in flavor. If you can’t find it, plain yogurt works as a nice substitute for a lighter option. Some people also mix sour cream and cream for a quick fix.
Cotija Cheese: It’s a crumbly cheese that complements the elote perfectly. If you can’t find it, feta cheese makes a great alternative with a similar flavor, though it’s a bit saltier.
Chili Powder: This spice adds a kick! You can adjust it based on your heat preference. If you like it hotter, try cayenne pepper or a spicy blend for more heat.
How Can You Get Perfectly Grilled Corn?
Grilling corn is easy, but there are a few tips to ensure it’s perfectly charred and tender. First, prepping the corn is important; husking it completely ensures the grill can work its magic on all sides.
- Soak the husked corn in water for 15-20 minutes if you want to prevent burning. This also helps keep it moist while grilling.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and make sure to turn the corn every few minutes. This will create those delicious char marks.
- Grill for about 10-15 minutes. It’s done when the kernels feel tender and you see good charring.
Lastly, always brush melted butter on the corn right after pulling it off the grill, as it adds richness and enhances the flavors of the crema and cheese.
How to Make Easy Elote with Crema Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Elote:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
For the Crema Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious elote recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of preparation time and another 10-15 minutes for grilling. So, in total, plan for about 30 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, husk the corn and remove any silk strands. If you want to prevent the corn from burning on the grill, you can soak the husked corn in water for 15-20 minutes—this gives it a nice steam while grilling.
2. Make the Crema Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the Mexican crema, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and chili powder. Stir everything until well combined. Don’t forget to season it with salt to taste—this adds a nice flavor kick!
3. Grill the Corn:
Once your grill is ready, place the corn on the grates. Grill the corn, turning it occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until it’s charred and tender. The char will give it that signature smoky flavor!
4. Add Butter and Crema:
When the corn is grilled to perfection, take it off the grill and spread a thin layer of butter over each ear. This will make it even more delicious! Then, generously brush your crema mixture over each grilled corn ear, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
5. Top and Serve:
Sprinkle the crumbled Cotija cheese all over the corn, followed by a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. For a fun touch, serve with lime wedges on the side so everyone can add an extra burst of citrus flavor. Enjoy your homemade elote—it’s a real treat!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Yes, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly. If using frozen corn, grill it in a grill basket or on skewers. Just grill until heated through and slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes, and follow the same instructions for the crema and toppings!
What If I Can’t Find Cotija Cheese?
No worries! Feta cheese is a great substitute, as it has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try a vegan feta or any crumbly cheese alternative that suits your preferences.
Can I Make the Crema Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crema sauce up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using, as ingredients may separate over time.
How to Store Leftover Elote?
Store any leftover elote in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or briefly grill it again, applying a little more butter or crema to freshen it up before serving.
