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Flavorful Grilled Corn Elote Recipe with Easy Smoky Chipotle Mayo

grilled corn elote - featured image

This grilled corn elote features smoky charred corn coated with a creamy, tangy chipotle mayo and topped with crumbly cheese and fresh cilantro. It’s a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing side perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 12 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup queso fresco or cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. Husk the corn, removing all silk strands. Rinse and pat dry (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, 1-2 finely minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and set aside.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  4. Optionally brush the corn with melted butter for extra richness and better charring.
  5. Place corn directly on grill grates. Turn every 2-3 minutes and grill for 10-12 minutes until kernels are tender and charred in spots.
  6. Generously coat the grilled corn with the smoky chipotle mayo using a spoon, brush, or gloved hands.
  7. Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese evenly over the corn. Add chopped cilantro if using.
  8. Finish with a light dusting of chili powder and a squeeze of fresh lime juice over each ear.
  9. Serve warm, ideally right off the grill.

Notes

If the chipotle mayo is too thick, add a splash of lime juice or water to loosen it for easier spreading. Keep the corn moving on the grill to avoid burning but aim for charred spots. For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayo and skip or substitute cheese. If no grill is available, roast corn in the oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, elote, chipotle mayo, smoky, summer side dish, Mexican street corn, easy recipe, barbecue side