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Easy Creamy Mexican Elote Corn on the Cob Recipe Perfect for Summer

creamy mexican elote corn on the cob - featured image

A quick and easy creamy Mexican street-style elote corn on the cob recipe that combines grilled corn with a tangy, creamy sauce and smoky chili powder, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup queso fresco or cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
  2. Brush the corn lightly with melted butter on all sides.
  3. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until kernels brown and blister slightly.
  4. While the corn grills, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt in a medium bowl until creamy and well combined.
  5. Remove the grilled corn from heat and let it cool slightly until warm enough to handle.
  6. Generously slather the creamy sauce over each ear of corn using a spoon or brush.
  7. Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese over the coated corn, pressing gently to adhere.
  8. Finish with chopped fresh cilantro and an extra dusting of chili powder if desired.
  9. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan or roast the corn in the oven at 425°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through. For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan mayo and coconut yogurt for sour cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Brushing with butter before grilling keeps the corn moist and encourages caramelization. The sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. For a more melted cheese effect, broil the coated corn for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote, Mexican corn, corn on the cob, creamy corn, grilled corn, summer recipe, street food, easy recipe