This Easy Elote recipe brings the flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen! Fresh corn is grilled to perfection and topped with a creamy sauce that’s full of flavor.
Trust me, the combination of the creamy sauce, cheese, and spices makes every bite a party! 🌽 I love serving it at BBQs. You’ll make friends for life with this one!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is best here! Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can use frozen, grilled, or canned corn, though the texture won’t be the same.
Mexican Crema: This creamy, tangy sauce is a classic for elote. You can swap it with sour cream for a similar flavor, or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Cotija Cheese: Crumbled cotija is a must for that salty kick. If you can’t find it, feta or even queso fresco works well in a pinch, offering that creamy texture and sharp flavor.
Chili Powder: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. For a different flavor, consider smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for more kick!
How Do I Grill Corn to Perfection?
Grilling corn can be tricky, but with the right technique, it’s easy! Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Here’s how to do it:
- Place husked corn directly on the grill. Turn occasionally for even charring.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the corn is charred and tender. Look for a nice golden-brown color.
- Let it cool slightly before applying your crema sauce; this makes it easier to handle.
Personal tip: If you like a little smokiness, try soaking the husked corn in water for about 15 minutes before grilling. This can add a fun flavor!
How to Make Easy Elote with Crema Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes grilling the corn and another 10 minutes preparing the crema sauce and garnishing. In no time, you’ll have a delicious elote ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will give the corn a nice char that enhances the flavor.
2. Grill the Corn:
Once the grill is hot, place the husked corn directly on the grill. Cook the corn, turning it occasionally, until it gets nice char marks and is cooked through—this should take about 10-15 minutes.
3. Prepare the Crema Sauce:
While the corn is grilling, grab a bowl and mix together the Mexican crema, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and chili powder. Stir until it’s all well combined and set aside.
4. Coat the Corn:
When the corn is done grilling, take it off the grill and let it cool for a minute. Then, using a brush or spoon, generously coat each ear of corn with the crema sauce mixture, making sure it’s fully covered.
5. Add Toppings:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the coated corn. If you love a bit of heat, add more chili powder on top to taste!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off by topping the corn with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor. Serve your elote immediately with lime wedges on the side, perfect for squeezing over the corn. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
While fresh corn is preferred for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn if needed. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before grilling. This will help achieve that delicious char you want for your elote!
What If I Can’t Find Mexican Crema?
No problem! You can easily substitute Mexican crema with sour cream or a mix of sour cream and heavy cream for a similar creamy texture. For a tangier flavor, add a bit of lime juice to the sour cream mix.
How Do I Store Leftover Corn with Crema Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you reheat the corn, it’s best to use a skillet to warm it up gently. You can always add a bit more crema sauce before serving for freshness!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it completely. You can also add some diced jalapeños for a different kind of heat, or serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who love it spicy.
