This easy elote recipe features sweet corn on the cob slathered in a creamy sauce. It’s the perfect treat for summer barbecues or a fun family dinner!
You won’t believe how quickly it comes together! Just grill the corn, mix up the crema sauce, and you’re ready to impress your taste buds. Corn has never tasted this good! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh sweet corn is a must for this dish. Look for ears that feel heavy for their size and have bright green husks. If it’s out of season, you can use frozen corn, just grill it to mimic the charred flavor.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well. You could also use an avocado-based mayo for a healthier twist.
Sour Cream: It provides tanginess. You’re welcome to substitute with plain yogurt or even a non-dairy yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese gives a nice salty kick. If you can’t find it, feta or queso fresco can be used as a substitute. They both have a similar texture and flavor profile!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, chopped green onions or parsley can be a perfect alternative.
How Do I Grill Corn to Get It Just Right?
Grilling corn adds a delicious smoky flavor. Follow these steps for perfectly grilled corn:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Husk the corn, removing all the silk strands. Rinse under cold water if needed.
- Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn it every few minutes to char all sides, about 8-10 minutes total.
- Keep an eye on it; you want beautifully charred kernels, not burnt! Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before applying the crema.
My tip? You can soak the corn in water for 15-30 minutes before grilling to prevent it from drying out and to help it cook evenly!
How to Make Easy Elote with Crema Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Elote:
- 4 ears of corn (husked)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
For the Crema Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious elote recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to grill the corn. In total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes getting this tasty dish ready. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will get it nice and hot, perfect for grilling the corn.
2. Grilling the Corn:
Take your husked ears of corn and place them directly on the preheated grill. Grill the corn for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning them every few minutes. You want to see those beautiful charred spots on the kernels, which adds great flavor. Once done, remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly.
3. Making the Crema Sauce:
While the corn is cooling, grab a small bowl. In it, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well until it’s nice and creamy!
4. Coating the Corn:
Once the corn has cooled a bit, brush or spoon the crema sauce generously over each ear of corn. Make sure to cover all sides so every bite is delicious!
5. Adding the Finishing Touches:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese all over the crema-coated corn. For a pop of color and freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro. If you like a bit of extra heat, feel free to sprinkle a little more chili powder on top.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your easy elote is ready to serve! Enjoy it right away with some lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the corn. This dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn! Just grill it after thawing it to ensure an even cook. For best results, toss the thawed corn with a little oil and grill it in a grill basket for about 5-7 minutes until heated and slightly charred.
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta or queso fresco can be great substitutes. They won’t replicate the exact flavor, but they’ll provide a similar texture and saltiness that works well with the crema sauce.
How to Store Leftover Crema Sauce?
Store any leftover crema sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using it again as the ingredients may separate during storage.
Can I Make the Crema Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crema sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix it well before serving to ensure the ingredients are fully combined, and it will be ready to go when you grill the corn!
