Mexican Corn on the Cob (Elote)
This Mexican Corn on the Cob, or Elote, features grilled ears of corn slathered in a creamy sour cream and mayonnaise mixture, then topped with melted butter, cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh cilantro. The grilling imparts a gentle char that enhances the sweetness of the corn, while the spicy chili and salty cheese add layered flavors. Served with lime wedges, these corn cobs offer a balanced and flavorful side or snack that complements many meals.
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn husked
- 3 tablespoons sour cream (or Greek yogurt or Mexican crema)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons butter melted, salted
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese or queso fresco crumbled
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
- 4 lime wedges
Instructions
- Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Brush grill grate with oil.
- Grill corn, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly charred, 10 to 12 minutes.
- While corn is cooking, mix sour cream and mayonnaise together in a small bowl until well combined. Place butter in a separate bowl and melt. In another small bowl combine chili powder and cayenne pepper. Set all three bowls aside.
- Remove from the grill and immediately brush with melted butter, then spread each evenly with the sour cream mixture. Sprinkle with cheese and chili mixture. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Leftover corn kernels can be cut off the cob and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat leftovers gently in a microwave or oven to preserve texture.
- Cotija cheese or queso fresco provide the classic flavor; feta can be used as a substitute though the taste will differ.
- Serving with lime wedges allows guests to add brightness according to preference.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 4 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 195
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 195kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 18g | 6% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 30mg | 10% |
| Sodium | 200mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 256mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 595IU | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 6.7mg | 7% |
| Calcium | 56mg | 6% |
| Iron | 0.5mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.