This easy elote recipe brings you sweet corn on the cob topped with a creamy sauce for a burst of flavor. It’s perfect for barbecues and gatherings, bringing a taste of summer to every bite!
Let’s be honest, who can resist slathering on that delicious crema? I like to sprinkle some chili powder on top for a little kick. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🌽
Making this elote is as simple as grilling the corn and mixing up the sauce. It’s a fun snack to enjoy while chatting with friends. So, grab your napkins and dig in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is key here. Look for ears that are bright green with plump kernels. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen or canned corn can work, though they won’t quite match that grilled flavor.
Mexican Crema: This creamy sauce is delicious, but if you can’t find it, sour cream is a great alternative. You can even mix sour cream with a bit of whole milk for thinning, if you like.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese provides a salty punch. If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a good substitute, or try ricotta salata for a softer flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is best for flavor. If limes are out of season, bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always tastier.
Chili Powder: Adjust this based on your spice preference. You can also try paprika for a milder taste or cayenne for more heat. I personally like a little extra kick!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Corn?
Grilling corn can seem tricky, but it’s simple once you know a few tips! The key is to get that nice char while ensuring it’s tender inside.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; this helps with even cooking.
- Grill corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. This way, you’ll get a nice char without burning.
- Look for some slight charring as a sign that the corn is done.
- Let it cool slightly before applying the crema sauce; this keeps it from sliding off!
Easy Elote with Crema Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Elote:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
For the Crema Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1-2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/4 tsp chili powder (or to taste)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy elote recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes grilling the corn while you whip up the crema sauce in just a few minutes. It’s quick and perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the corn will cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks. While it’s heating, you can prepare the crema sauce!
2. Grill the Corn:
Once the grill is hot, place the husked corn directly on the grill grates. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning it occasionally. You’re looking for it to get slightly charred and fully cooked, so keep an eye on it!
3. Make the Crema Sauce:
While the corn is grilling, grab a bowl and mix together the Mexican crema, mayonnaise, lime juice, minced garlic (if using), chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. This sauce will be drizzled over your corn, so make it delicious!
4. Finish the Corn:
Once the corn is nicely grilled, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Be careful, it will be hot! After a few minutes, use a brush or spoon to generously slather the crema sauce over each ear of corn.
5. Add the Cotija and Garnish:
Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese evenly over the corn, ensuring it sticks to the crema sauce. Then, top it all off with some chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Pair it with lime wedges for an extra flavor burst.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your elote is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over. It’s the perfect side dish or snack to brighten up any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen corn and drain any excess water before grilling. You might want to sauté it in a pan for a few minutes to get some char if grilling isn’t an option.
What Can I Substitute for Mexican Crema?
If you can’t find Mexican crema, you can easily substitute it with sour cream or a mixture of sour cream and a bit of heavy cream to achieve a similar consistency. Greek yogurt can also work if you’re looking for a tangy alternative!
How Do I Store Leftover Elote?
Leftover elote should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it for a few seconds, or enjoy it cold as a salad-style dish!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use corn on the cob and substitute the crema with a vegan sour cream or cashew cream, and the mayonnaise with vegan mayo. Crumbled vegan cheese can replace cotija cheese for a dairy-free option!
