The aroma of grilled Elote Steak Tacos wafts through the air, mixing smoky and sweet scents that dance tantalizingly in your nostrils. Each bite is a fiesta of flavors, with tender steak, creamy elote, and fresh toppings exploding like a piñata at a party.
Picture this: it’s a warm summer evening, friends gathered around the grill, laughter mingling with the sizzle of meat. You serve these mouthwatering tacos, and suddenly you’re the star of the show, basking in compliments and happy faces. What could be better than that?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are quick to prepare and bursting with flavor
- The colorful presentation makes them a showstopper at any gathering
- They easily adapt to your taste preferences, whether spicy or mild
- Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or festive gatherings with friends
I remember the first time I made these tacos; everyone couldn’t stop raving about them. It felt like I had unlocked some secret culinary treasure.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Steak: Choose a flavorful cut like flank steak or sirloin for the best results.
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn is key for that authentic elote flavor; avoid frozen if possible.
- Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayo for creaminess; this will help create that delicious elote topping.
- Chili Powder: A sprinkle of chili powder adds warmth; adjust based on your spice preference.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds zest and balances out the richness of the mayo.
- Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings freshness; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
- Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional but feel free to use flour if you prefer.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Elote Steak Tacos
Marinate the Steak: Start by marinating your steak for at least 30 minutes in olive oil, lime juice, and spices. This will infuse flavors that make every bite unforgettable.
Grill the Corn: While the steak marinates, preheat your grill over medium heat. Place corn directly on the grill grates and cook until charred, turning occasionally—about 10 minutes should do the trick.
Cook the Steak: Remove corn from the grill and set aside. Grill your marinated steak over high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare—look for a nice char.
Create Elote Topping: Once cool enough to handle, cut corn off the cob into a bowl. Mix in mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cheese (if using), and chopped cilantro for an irresistible topping.
Assemble Your Tacos: Warm tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds each side. Slice your grilled steak thinly against the grain and layer it onto each tortilla with generous spoonfuls of elote topping.
Enjoy these delightful Grilled Elote Steak Tacos with friends or family; they’re sure to become your new favorite.
You Must Know
- Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are a fiesta on your plate
- The combination of smoky grilled steak, sweet corn, and zesty toppings creates a mouthwatering experience
- This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, delighting both family and friends with every bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the steak for at least an hour. Grill the corn while cooking the steak to maximize flavor and efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out steak for chicken or shrimp. Experiment with cheeses like queso fresco for an extra creamy kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain that smoky goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is perfectly cooked; it should reach 145°F for medium-rare
- Fresh corn elevates flavors; try grilling it right before serving for maximum sweetness
- Let the tacos rest after filling them to let flavors meld beautifully
Nothing says “family bonding” quite like grilling outside on a warm evening. My kids still rave about that time we made these tacos together, and I accidentally put too much chili powder in the marinade.
FAQ
What is the best cut of steak for grilled elote tacos?
Flank steak or skirt steak works wonderfully due to their tenderness and flavor.
Can I make grilled elote steak tacos ahead of time?
You can prepare everything beforehand but assemble the tacos just before serving for freshness.
What toppings are good for grilled elote steak tacos?
Try cilantro, avocado, lime juice, or spicy salsa for added flavor and texture.

Grilled Elote Steak Tacos
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos) 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Grilled Elote Steak Tacos, where tender marinated steak meets sweet grilled corn and zesty toppings. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, these tacos promise an explosion of taste that will have your friends and family begging for more. Easy to make and visually stunning, they are sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 2 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- 8 corn tortillas
Instructions
- Marinate the steak in olive oil, lime juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the corn until charred, about 10 minutes.
- Grill the marinated steak over high heat for 5-7 minutes per side until medium-rare.
- Cut the grilled corn off the cob and mix with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro.
- Warm tortillas on the grill for 30 seconds each side. Slice steak thinly and assemble tacos with elote topping.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Swap flank steak for chicken or shrimp if desired. For extra creaminess, consider adding queso fresco as a topping. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in a skillet.