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Flavorful Grilled Elote Corn on the Cob Recipe

grilled elote corn on the cob - featured image

A simple and delicious Mexican street-style grilled corn on the cob slathered with a creamy mayo-lime sauce, topped with salty Cotija cheese and zesty Tajín seasoning. Perfect for summer gatherings and quick outdoor parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • ½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 teaspoons Tajín seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C) and let it warm up for about 10 minutes.
  2. Husk the corn ears, removing all silk strands. Rinse and pat dry. Optionally soak in cold water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise with the juice of 1 lime, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  4. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Turn every 2-3 minutes, grilling for about 10-12 minutes until kernels are tender and slightly caramelized with charred spots.
  5. Remove the corn from the grill and immediately brush generously with the mayo-lime sauce while still hot.
  6. Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese all over the coated corn, pressing lightly to help it stick. Then dust with Tajín seasoning.
  7. Optionally drizzle melted butter over the corn for extra richness.
  8. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Brush the mayo-lime sauce on while the corn is still hot to help the cheese and seasoning stick better. Turn the corn regularly to avoid burning and achieve even char. For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayo and skip or substitute the cheese with vegan cheese. If no grill is available, roast corn in a 425°F oven wrapped in foil for 20 minutes or use a stovetop grill pan.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled elote, Mexican street corn, Cotija cheese, Tajín, grilled corn on the cob, summer recipe, easy side dish, outdoor party food