This Easy Elote will bring the taste of summer right to your kitchen! Grilled corn on the cob is slathered in a rich crema sauce, topped with cheese, and sprinkled with spices. Yum!
Nothing says fun like eating corn with your hands, right? I love how messy it gets! Just grab a napkin and dig in. 🌽 Plus, it’s super quick to make, perfect for a snack or party side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is best for flavor. If you can’t find fresh corn, you can use frozen corn, but grilling fresh corn adds that irresistible char. Try to use bi-color corn for sweetness and color!
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It gives a similar creaminess with added protein and tang.
Sour Cream: This adds richness. If you prefer, plain yogurt (either Greek or regular) can be swapped in for a lower-fat alternative. It also brings a pleasing tangy flavor!
Chili Powder: Adjust this based on your spice preference. For something spicier, use chipotle powder or cayenne pepper. You can also try paprika for a milder flavor.
Cotija Cheese: This is the traditional cheese for elote, offering a salty finish. Feta can be a good substitute if cotija is hard to find. It won’t taste exactly the same, but it works well!
How Do I Grill Corn Perfectly?
Grilling corn might seem tricky, but it’s simple! The key is to keep an eye on it while it cooks to avoid burning. Here’s how:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high. A hot grill gives that nice char.
- Place the husked corn directly on the grill. Cooking directly on the grill helps achieve that smoky flavor.
- Turn the corn every few minutes. This allows even charring without burning any sides.
- Cook the corn for about 10-15 minutes until you see dark grill marks. The corn should be tender but still crunchy.
Let the corn cool slightly before topping with the crema sauce. This way, it won’t burn your hands and allows the sauce to stick better!
Easy Elote Recipe With Crema Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Elote:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
For the Crema Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup 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 to cook the corn on the grill and about 10 minutes to prepare the crema sauce and toppings. So, you can enjoy this tasty dish in about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill hot by preheating it to medium-high heat. This will help cook the corn evenly and give it that nice charred flavor we love!
2. Grill the Corn:
Place the husked corn directly onto the grill. Cook the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are charred and cooked through. When done, take the corn off the grill and let it cool slightly before handling.
3. Make the Crema Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and salt. Mix everything well until you have a creamy sauce. Don’t be afraid to taste it and adjust the chili powder or salt to your liking!
4. Brush the Corn:
Once the corn is cool enough to handle, use a brush or a spoon to generously apply the crema sauce all over each ear of corn. Make sure it’s coated well for maximum flavor!
5. Add Toppings:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the crema-covered corn, making sure to cover it thoroughly. Then, add the chopped cilantro on top. If you like some extra heat, feel free to sprinkle a little more chili powder over it!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the elote with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the corn just before enjoying. Dive in and savor your delicious elote with crema sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
While fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw it completely and grill it until heated through, but you may not get the same char as fresh corn.
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese is an excellent substitute as it has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor. You can also use queso fresco or even grated Parmesan in a pinch, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How to Store Leftover Crema Sauce?
Store leftover crema sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it in ice cube trays, then transferring the cubes to a freezer bag. Just thaw in the fridge before using again!
Can I Make the Crema Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crema sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld, giving you a more delicious sauce!
