Easy Grilled Mexican Street Corn Elote Recipe – The Ultimate BBQ Side Dish for Summer Cookouts
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my full disclosure policy for details.
There’s nothing quite like the smoky, charred flavor of Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote)—a must-have for summer BBQs and cookouts. This recipe brings together sweet grilled corn, a creamy, tangy sauce, and bold seasonings for the perfect side dish. If you love Mexican flavors, you might also enjoy my Mexican Street Corn – Elote recipe or my Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins for another take on corn with a little heat.
I love grilling, and I fire up the grill all year long! Whether it’s summer cookouts, fall tailgates, or just a quick weeknight meal, grilling makes everything taste better. The smoky char from the flames gives food so much depth, and this Grilled Mexican Street Corn Elote is no exception.
Elote is a staple in my grilling lineup, and I always find an excuse to make it. It’s quick, easy, and packed with bold street-food flavors. The combination of warm, buttery corn, creamy sauce, and a kick of spice is irresistible. No summer party is complete without it!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold & Authentic Flavor – Creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy with a hint of smokiness.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for Grilling – The charred corn adds a deep, caramelized sweetness.
- Great for Gatherings – Always a hit at BBQs, picnics, and taco nights.
Equipment I Use
- Grill – For perfectly charred and smoky corn.
- Bakers Twine – Keeps the husks tied back for easy handling.
- Silicone Pastry Brush – Perfect for coating the corn with butter and sauce.
- Squeeze Bottle – Makes applying the creamy mixture mess-free.
- Glass Mixing Bowls – For mixing the sauce and garnishes.
- Sifter – Helps evenly distribute chili powder for a perfect finish.
- Lemon Squeezer – Extracts every drop of lime juice for a fresh, tangy kick.
- Metal Pinch Bowls – Keeps seasonings and garnishes organized.
Ingredients
- 6 ears fresh corn – Sweet and juicy, perfect for grilling.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise – Adds rich creaminess.
- 2 cups sour cream – Balances the flavors with a cool tang.
- 1 lime – For squeezing into the sauce.
- ¼ cup butter, melted – Enhances the grilled corn with richness.
Garnish
- 2 limes, cut into wedges – Adds fresh acidity.
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – For a bright, herby finish.
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated – Brings a salty, nutty flavor.
- 1 tbsp red chili powder – Adds a mild heat and smoky depth.
Latest Video
How I Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
- Peel back the husks of the corn, but leave them attached at the base.
- Tie the husks together with bakers twine to create a natural handle.
- Brush the corn generously with melted butter using a silicone pastry brush.
Step 2: Grill the Corn
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the buttered corn directly on the grill grates.
- Turn occasionally, brushing with more butter, until the kernels are slightly charred, about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a glass mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice.
- Transfer the mixture to a squeeze bottle for easy application.
Step 4: Assemble the Elote
- Brush or drizzle the creamy sauce over the grilled corn.
- Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, chopped cilantro, and red chili powder.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
How I Serve & Store It
- Best Served Fresh – Elote is best enjoyed straight off the grill while it’s warm and creamy.
- Short-Term Storage – If needed, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating – Warm it up on the grill or in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
What I Love to Serve It With
This Grilled Mexican Street Corn Elote pairs perfectly with:
- Grilled Steak Tacos – The smoky corn complements the rich, juicy steak.
- BBQ Chicken – Adds a creamy, tangy contrast to smoky barbecue flavors.
- Fresh Guacamole & Chips – A perfect side for dipping and snacking.
- Mexican Rice – A classic pairing that rounds out the meal.
Mexican recipes
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Mexican Street Corn Elote is a must-have at my summer cookouts. It’s simple, packed with flavor, and always disappears fast! Whether you’re grilling for a big gathering or just making a quick side dish, this recipe brings the bold, authentic taste of Mexican street corn straight to your table.
Looking for more grilled recipes? If you enjoy smoky, flame-kissed dishes, check out my How to Perfectly Grill Steak and Chicken for expert grilling tips, or try my Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Butter Glaze for a sweet and savory summer treat. Try my Homemade Pizza on the Grill or Zucchini Cakes with Herb and Sour Cream Spread for even more summer flavors!
Enjoy and happy grilling! 🌽🔥
Authentic Grilled Mexican Street Corn Elote with Creamy Toppings
Equipment
- Bakers twine
Ingredients
- 6 ears fresh corn
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 lime
- 1/4 cup butter melted
Garnish
- 2 lime
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tbsp red chili powder
Instructions
- Shackle years of corn leaving the husks attached. Tie husks together with bakers twine and brush corn with melted butter.
- Grill corn on the grill, turning and brushing with melted butter until corn gets slightly charred.
- In a small bowl mix sour cream, mayonnaise. Brush mix on corn and season with a garnish of lime juice, Parmesan, red chili powder, and cilantro.
Video
Leave a Reply