This easy elote recipe brings sweet corn to life with a creamy sauce! Topped with cheese and spices, it’s a tasty treat that’s super fun to eat, especially at summer BBQs.
When I make elote, I always end up with sauce on my face! 😂 But hey, it’s part of the fun. Just grab some corn, whip up that sauce, and get ready for a flavor blast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is best for this recipe. Look for ears that are bright yellow and feel firm. If it’s out of season, frozen corn may work, but fresh will give you the best taste and texture.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds creaminess and tang to the sauce. You can use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative, which also adds a nice tang. I’ve tried both and love the swap!
Sour Cream: This gives the crema a rich texture. You can replace it with plain yogurt for a healthier version, or even a dairy-free option like coconut yogurt will work well.
Cheese: Queso fresco is traditional, but if you can’t find it, crumbled feta works as a fantastic substitute. It provides similar creaminess and flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness. If you’re not a fan, try parsley for a milder taste, or simply leave it out.
How Do I Grill Corn to Perfection?
Grilling corn might seem tricky, but it’s straightforward! Here’s the secret for great grilled corn:
- Preheat the Grill: Get your grill nice and hot, around medium-high heat (about griddle). This helps achieve those lovely char marks.
- Prep the Corn: Husk the corn well, removing all silk strands for even cooking.
- Grill the Corn: Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn it every few minutes. It’s ready when it’s charred and tender, which takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Cool Slightly: Let the corn cool for a minute or two before applying the crema. This helps avoid burns and gives you a chance to mix your sauce.
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously grilled corn ready to be coated in your crema sauce!
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 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Grilled tortillas (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy elote recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes grilling the corn and about 5-10 minutes preparing the crema sauce and assembling. A quick and delicious way to enjoy corn!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. This ensures the corn will cook evenly and get those nice grill marks!
2. Grill the Corn:
Place the husked ears of corn on the grill. Rotate the corn every few minutes, so it gets charred evenly on all sides. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, or until the corn is tender and has some nice char marks.
3. Prepare the Crema Sauce:
While the corn is grilling, grab a bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Taste it; you can adjust the seasoning if you like more spice!
4. Finish the Grilled Corn:
Once your corn is grilled, carefully take it off the grill and let it cool for a minute. Then, generously brush the crema sauce over each ear of corn. Make sure to cover every side to get all that delicious flavor!
5. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the crumbled queso fresco over the saucy corn. It adds a lovely salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the crema. Then, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your elote is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it with lime wedges for squeezing over the top and grab some grilled tortillas if you’d like. Enjoy this tasty treat with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen corn! Simply thaw the corn first—either by leaving it in the fridge overnight or quickly microwaving it for a few minutes. Grilling isn’t necessary, as you can sauté or roast the corn in a pan instead for a similar effect.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It will still provide that creamy texture and tangy flavor. Use the same amount, 1/2 cup, and enjoy a healthier twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Elote?
If you have leftover elote, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or back on the grill for a few minutes—just be cautious not to overheat!
Can I Make the Crema Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the crema sauce ahead of time! Just mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days, which allows you to enjoy elote whenever you want!
