This easy elote recipe brings sweet corn to life with a creamy sauce that’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or simply to enjoy anytime!
Who doesn’t love corn on the cob covered in yummy toppings? It’s messy in the best way, and I can’t help but sneak a few bites while grilling it up! 😄
Making this elote is a breeze. Just cook the corn, slather on the crema sauce, and sprinkle with cheese. You’ll have a tasty treat ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh sweet corn is the star here. Look for ears that are firm and plump with bright green husks. If it’s out of season, you could use frozen corn, but the taste won’t be quite the same. Grilling fresh corn really enhances its flavor!
Crema: Traditional crema adds a creamy and tangy touch. If you can’t find it, sour cream works well, or you can mix Greek yogurt with a splash of milk for a similar consistency. I like to use sour cream for its tangy kick.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese is essential for that classic flavor. If you can’t find cotija, try feta or even Parmesan. Both can give you a nice salty flavor, but cotija has a unique creaminess that I love.
Chili Powder: This provides a mild heat. You can replace it with paprika for a sweeter flavor or cayenne if you enjoy extra spice. Adjust based on your taste – I prefer a bit more heat, so I often add a pinch of cayenne!
How Can I Get Perfectly Grilled Corn?
Grilling corn might seem tricky, but it’s pretty simple, and the results are delicious. Start with the right temperature – medium-high heat works best. Make sure to turn the corn often to get an even char without burning.
- Husk the corn and remove all silk for a clean grill experience.
- Place the corn directly on the grill and grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning every few minutes.
- Look for a nice char – that’s when the flavor really comes out!
After grilling, let the corn cool a bit before applying the crema sauce. This helps it stick better and gives you a tasty treat! Enjoy every bite!
How to Make Easy Elote with Crema Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Elote:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
For the Crema Sauce:
- 1/2 cup crema (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- Salt, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 15 minutes to grill the corn and another 10-15 minutes to prepare the crema sauce and assemble everything. It’s a quick and tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
First things first! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps in getting that perfect char on your corn. While the grill is heating up, you can husk the corn.
2. Grilling the Corn:
Once your grill is nice and hot, place the husked corn directly on the grill. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning it occasionally. You want to see some nice char marks and for the corn to become tender. Keep an eye on it!
3. Making the Crema Sauce:
While the corn is getting all delicious on the grill, let’s make the crema sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the crema (or sour cream), mayonnaise, chili powder, lime zest, and salt. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Yum!
4. Dressing Up the Corn:
Once your corn is grilled and has cooled slightly, it’s time to get fancy! Brush each ear of corn generously with the crema sauce mixture, making sure to cover every part of the corn.
5. Adding the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese evenly over the corn, so every bite has that cheesy goodness. Then, top it off with the fresh chopped cilantro, and if you like, squeeze a little extra lime juice for that zesty kick!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your elote is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn, but grilling may not be as effective. Instead, thaw the corn and sauté it in a skillet with a little oil for a charred flavor. For best results, try to use fresh corn for that authentic elote experience!
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese works as a great substitute due to its similar crumbly texture. You could also try Parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile, though it will be less tangy.
Can I Make the Crema Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crema sauce a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before using, as it might thicken a bit.
How Should I Store Leftover Elote?
To store leftovers, wrap the grilled corn in foil or place in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the grill or in the oven to regain some of the original texture and flavor before enjoying!
