Print

Flavorful Grilled Corn Elote Street Style Recipe with Cotija Cheese

grilled corn elote - featured image

A quick and easy grilled corn elote recipe featuring a creamy mayo-lime sauce, smoky chili powder, and salty Cotija cheese for a delicious street-style treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, about 400°F (205°C).
  2. Husk the corn, removing all the silk. Optionally soak the corn in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until smooth.
  4. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until golden-brown char appears.
  5. Brush melted butter over the corn while grilling to keep it moist and help the sauce stick.
  6. Remove corn from heat and slather the mayo-lime sauce all over each ear generously.
  7. Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the coated corn, pressing lightly to adhere.
  8. Finish with fresh cilantro if desired, squeeze extra lime juice on top, and dust with a pinch more chili powder.
  9. Serve immediately while hot and messy.

Notes

Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Press Cotija cheese firmly onto the sauce to prevent it from falling off. If no grill is available, use a broiler or hot cast-iron skillet for similar results. Sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. For vegan version, substitute mayo with vegan mayo and Cotija with plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, elote, street style, Cotija cheese, Mexican street food, smoky corn, mayo lime sauce, easy side dish