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Mexican Street Corn (Elotes): A Flavor-Packed Classic

Mexican Street Corn (Elotes)

Fresh corn is grilled until tender and lightly charred, then coated in a creamy mayonnaise and crema sauce with Cotija cheese, chili powder, cilantro, and lime. This classic elotes recipe serves four and takes about 20–25 minutes from start to finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Corn
  • 4 ears Fresh corn, husks and silk removed
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil, for brushing
Creamy Topping
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • 1 small clove, optional Small garlic clove, finely grated or minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste Fine salt
Toppings
  • 1/2 cup, about 50 g Finely crumbled Cotija cheese
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges Lime
  • 1 teaspoon Chili powder or ancho chile powder
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high, approximately 425–450°F (220–230°C).
  2. Stir together the mayonnaise, Mexican crema or sour cream, garlic if using, and a small pinch of salt.
  3. Lightly brush the four ears of corn with the vegetable oil.
  4. Grill the corn for 8–12 minutes, turning every 1–2 minutes, until tender and marked with browned or lightly charred spots.
  5. While the corn is still hot, spread each ear with the mayonnaise-crema mixture.
  6. Roll or sprinkle the corn with Cotija cheese, then finish with chili powder and chopped cilantro.
  7. Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.

Notes

Mexican crema is the most traditional creamy element, while sour cream is a dependable substitute. Cotija is standard, but feta can be used when Cotija is unavailable. Cayenne, Tajín, smoked paprika, or hot sauce can replace or supplement the chili powder. Grill for browned spots rather than blackening the entire ear, and apply the sauce and cheese while the corn is hot so they adhere well. Cotija is salty, so taste the sauce before adding extra salt.