Few street foods capture the magic of bold, vibrant flavors quite like elote. This beloved Mexican grilled corn is a symphony of textures and tastes—charred and smoky from the grill, creamy from a slather of mayo or crema, tangy from a squeeze of lime, and utterly irresistible when dusted with chili powder and crumbled cotija cheese. Whether you’ve had it straight from a street vendor or are discovering it for the first time, one thing’s certain: once you try elote, you’ll crave it again and again.
But why stop at the classic version? Elote is endlessly adaptable, and we’ve rounded up 11 mouthwatering recipes that take this iconic snack to new heights. Imagine sweet kernels caramelized over an open flame, then loaded with smoky chipotle mayo, crumbled bacon, and a shower of queso fresco. Or picture elote-inspired twists, like creamy elote pasta salad, crispy elote esquites (off-the-cob style), or even elote nachos piled high with all the fixings. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout, prepping a game-day snack spread, or just treating yourself to a flavor-packed side dish, these recipes deliver the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, smoky, and cheesy in every bite.
We’ve included quick fixes for busy nights, show-stopping party dishes, and even vegan-friendly options—because everyone deserves a taste of this addictive street food. Plus, you’ll find tips on grilling corn to perfection, balancing flavors, and creative ways to serve elote beyond the cob. So grab some napkins (things are about to get deliciously messy), and let’s dive into these irresistible elote recipes that’ll have you coming back for seconds (or thirds).
Grilled Elote with Honey Butter
Grilled Elote with Honey Butter is a delightful twist on the classic Mexican street corn. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with a smoky, charred flavor from the grill, topped off with a rich, buttery honey glaze. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy, making it a hit at summer cookouts or family dinners.
It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a beginner, this dish is sure to impress everyone around the table!
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, honey, chili powder, and salt until well combined.
- Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and charred.
- Once cooked, remove the corn from the grill and brush generously with the honey butter mixture.
- Serve with fresh lime wedges for squeezing over the top. Enjoy!
Sweet Corn Salsa with Lime
This Sweet Corn Salsa with Lime is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. The sweet corn pairs perfectly with the zesty lime and the vibrant taste of tomatoes, making it a refreshing addition to tacos, grilled meats, or simply as a dip with tortilla chips. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it an easy dish for gatherings or a quick snack.
The combination of sweet corn, ripe tomatoes, and fresh cilantro creates a colorful salsa that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a light and zesty salsa that captures the essence of summer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- If using frozen corn, cook according to package instructions and let it cool. If using fresh corn, grill or boil it briefly until tender, then cut the kernels off the cob.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet corn, diced cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro.
- Squeeze the juice of the limes over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Smoky Chipotle Elote
Smoky Chipotle Elote brings together the sweet crunch of corn on the cob with a robust chipotle flavor. This recipe is a fun twist on traditional elote, adding a smoky kick that will excite your taste buds. It’s simple to whip up and makes for a delicious side dish or a tasty snack.
The combination of creamy toppings with a hint of spice creates a satisfying experience, perfect for summer cookouts or cozy evenings at home. With just a few ingredients, you can create this flavorful masterpiece that captures the essence of street food in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1-2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Grill the Corn: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked and slightly charred.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped chipotle, and lime juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Elote: Once the corn is grilled, brush the chipotle sauce generously over each ear. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese and chili powder on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy your Smoky Chipotle Elote hot!
Elote Corn Fritters
Elote corn fritters are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican street corn. These little bites are packed with sweet corn, spices, and a hint of cheese, delivering a combination of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting. They’re quick to whip up, making them a perfect snack or party appetizer.
With a crispy outside and tender inside, these fritters capture the essence of elote in a fun, handheld form. Serve them hot with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of spicy sauce for an extra kick. Enjoy the sweet, smoky, and cheesy goodness in every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (like Cotija or cheddar)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, flour, cornmeal, cheese, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the beaten egg and milk until just combined. The mixture should be slightly thick.
- Heat the Oil: In a skillet over medium heat, add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once hot, use a spoon to drop dollops of the batter into the oil.
- Fry Fritters: Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Cheesy Garlic Elote Dip
Cheesy Garlic Elote Dip brings all the flavors of traditional elote into a creamy, rich dip that is perfect for any gathering. The combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and savory garlic creates a delightful mix that’s hard to resist. It’s simple to whip up, making it a go-to option for game nights or movie marathons.
With its warm, cheesy consistency and a hint of smokiness, this dip is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it alongside tortilla chips or fresh veggies for dipping. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips. Enjoy!
Tropical Coconut Elote
Tropical Coconut Elote is a delightful twist on traditional Mexican street corn. Combining the sweetness of fresh corn with the tropical flavors of coconut, this dish brings a unique taste to any gathering. The creamy coconut complements the smoky undertones of the grilled corn, making every bite a delicious experience.
This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for summer cookouts. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time. Serve it as a side or a fun snack, and watch everyone enjoy its sweet and savory flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of sweet corn, husked
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred.
- Prepare the Coconut Topping: In a bowl, mix the coconut cream, lime juice, and chili powder until well combined.
- Assemble: Once the corn is grilled, brush each ear generously with the coconut mixture. Sprinkle with toasted shredded coconut and crumbled queso fresco.
- Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving.
Sriracha Lime Elote
Sriracha Lime Elote is a delightful twist on the classic Mexican street corn. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the spicy kick of sriracha and the zesty brightness of lime. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it ideal for a quick snack or a fun party dish.
With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering treat that’s smoky, sweet, and cheesy all at once. Each bite is a burst of flavor that will leave you craving more!
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix melted butter, mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, lime juice, and salt until well combined.
- Coat the Corn: Once the corn is grilled, brush each ear generously with the sauce, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Add Cheese and Cilantro: Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro over the corn for extra flavor.
- Serve: Squeeze additional lime juice on top if desired, and enjoy your Sriracha Lime Elote!
Classic Mexican Street Corn
Classic Mexican street corn, or elote, is a delicious treat that combines sweet, smoky, and cheesy flavors. This dish features grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy toppings, making it a popular street food across Mexico. It’s simple to prepare, and perfect for summer barbecues or as a tasty snack.
The combination of lime juice, cotija cheese, and chili powder creates a delightful balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re enjoying it at a fiesta or making it at home, classic elote is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder until well combined.
- Coat the Corn: Once the corn is done grilling, remove it and generously coat it with the sauce mixture.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the coated corn and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for extra zesty flavor.
Elote Pasta Salad
This Elote Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on traditional elote, capturing that sweet, smoky, and cheesy flavor in a vibrant salad form. It’s a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for summer picnics or casual weeknight dinners.
Combining pasta with fresh corn, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing, this dish offers a refreshing taste that bursts with flavor. It’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of indulgent, sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, corn, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve cold and enjoy!
Sweet Chili Elote Skewers
Sweet Chili Elote Skewers are a fun twist on the traditional Mexican street corn, bringing together the sweet and spicy flavors that make this dish irresistible. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with a sweet chili sauce that perfectly balances smoky, cheesy goodness, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Plus, these skewers are simple to prepare, making them a hit at summer barbecues or casual get-togethers with friends.
The combination of sweet chili sauce, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of cheese elevates the corn to a new level, providing a burst of flavor with every bite. It’s a dish that’s not only visually appealing, but also a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt, to taste
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Prep the Corn: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Skewer each ear of corn to make it easier to handle on the grill.
- Grill: Place the skewered corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and slightly charred.
- Make the Sauce: While the corn is grilling, mix together the sweet chili sauce and lime juice in a small bowl.
- Coat the Corn: Remove the corn from the grill and brush the sweet chili sauce mixture generously over each ear of corn.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle with crumbled cheese, fresh cilantro, and salt to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!
Creamy Avocado Elote
Creamy Avocado Elote is a delightful twist on the traditional Mexican street corn. This recipe combines the sweet, juicy flavors of corn with creamy avocado and zesty lime, creating a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The blend of flavors is a tasty experience, offering a unique take that’s both smoky and cheesy, while remaining refreshingly simple to make.
This dish is a breeze to whip up, making it an excellent choice for barbecues, parties, or even a cozy night in. The creamy avocado dressing adds a luxurious texture, while the toppings give it that extra kick of flavor. You’ll love serving it up as a side or as a main attraction!
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grill or boil the corn until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, let it cool slightly and then remove the husks if necessary.
- While the corn is cooling, prepare the creamy avocado dressing. In a bowl, mash the avocado and mix in mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spread the avocado dressing generously over each ear of corn.
- Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco and chopped cilantro over the top for added flavor and garnish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, smoky goodness!
Final Thoughts
Elote isn’t just a snack—it’s an experience. The first bite hits you with smoky sweetness, followed by a creamy, cheesy richness and just enough heat to keep you reaching for more. With these 11 recipes, you can enjoy elote in all its forms, from traditional street-style to inventive twists that bring the same bold flavors to new dishes. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, packing it for a picnic, or just indulging in a solo treat, elote always hits the spot. So fire up the grill, stock up on fresh corn, and get ready to fall in love with this iconic flavor combo all over again. Your taste buds will thank you!
