Grilled Elote Steak Tacos

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Savor juicy ribeye, perfectly seared on a hot grill, nestled in warm tortillas with a vibrant elote topping. Sweet charred corn is tossed with creamy mayo, sour cream, cilantro, cotija, and zesty lime for irresistible flavor. Each taco pairs tender steak slices with a spoonful of this creamy, slightly tangy corn mixture, offering a harmonious blend of textures and Mexican-inspired taste. A hint of jalapeño adds gentle heat, while finishing with extra lime brings fresh brightness to each bite. Serve immediately for the ultimate fusion of smoky, creamy, and citrusy layers in every taco.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:17:07 GMT
Grilled Elote Steak Tacos. Save
Grilled Elote Steak Tacos. | lilicooks.com

Grilled Elote Steak Tacos bring together two of my favorite things about summer in one irresistible bite rich juicy steak and creamy street corn all wrapped in a warm tortilla. I love making these for easy weeknight dinners or when friends come over to eat outside it always turns into a fun build your own taco night.

I started making these after a trip to Mexico City and even my picky eaters are obsessed with the tangy corn topping and how the steak stays tender every time.

Ingredients

  • Ribeye steaks: You get rich beefy flavor and juicy results even without a marinade I pick steaks with visible marbling for max tenderness
  • Fresh corn on the cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and smoky notes Always use the freshest ears you can find dull husks mean older corn
  • Mayonnaise: Makes the elote topping rich and creamy a good quality mayo gives extra silkiness
  • Sour cream: Adds tang and helps balance the richness of mayo choose for full fat if you can
  • Cotija cheese: The classic for elote salty and crumbly Cheese should smell fresh not sour look for blocks to crumble yourself
  • Chopped cilantro: Brings freshness and color opt for perky bright green leaves and rinse well
  • Lime juice and zest: Citrus makes the flavors pop Sub lemons or extra lime juice if you are out of zest
  • Small flour or corn tortillas: Both work Pick the freshest most pliable tortillas you can find check your market bakery if possible
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the steak properly
  • Jalapeño (optional): for a spicy kick Choose firm peppers with smooth skin

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep:
Get your grill hot set to medium high heat for the perfect sear Let your steaks come to room temperature this helps them cook more evenly
Grill the Corn:
Place shucked corn directly on the grates Keep turning every couple minutes until kernels are charred and cooked through usually about ten to twelve minutes Take off the grill and let cool until easy to handle Carefully cut kernels off each cob and collect in a large bowl
Prepare the Elote Mixture:
To the bowl of grilled corn add mayonnaise sour cream cotija cheese cilantro lime juice and zest if using Stir everything until well coated The mixture should be creamy and slightly tangy taste and adjust salt if needed
Grill the Steak:
Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper Place on grill cook about four to five minutes per side for medium rare or longer for your preferred doneness Take steaks off grill and let rest a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain this keeps the meat tender
Toast the Tortillas:
Lay tortillas right on the grill about a minute per side until warm with some char marks Stack in a towel to keep soft
Assemble the Tacos:
Layer slices of steak onto each tortilla Top with a big spoonful of the elote mixture so you get lots of creamy corn in every bite
Optional Jalapeño Crème:
Add thin slices of jalapeño on top for a hit of heat If you want even more creaminess mix a little sour cream with chopped jalapeño for a cold topping
Serve:
Bring your tacos to the table hot and fresh with extra lime on the side for squeezing
Grilled elote steak tacos on a wooden board. Save
Grilled elote steak tacos on a wooden board. | lilicooks.com

I always look forward to that moment when everyone takes a first bite I use cotija cheese every time because its saltiness gives the corn layer that authentic elote taste I grew up sharing street corn at summer fairs and now it is my favorite part of taco night

Storage Tips

Store extra steak and elote topping separately in airtight containers Steak will stay juicy if you slice only before serving For best texture enjoy the corn topping within two days If you have leftover tacos already assembled wrap them tightly and reheat gently so the tortillas do not get dry

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ribeye for flank or skirt steak for a leaner option Queso fresco works if you cannot get cotija For a dairy free version use vegan mayo and omit cheese Grilled poblano peppers can stand in for jalapeños if you want a milder heat

Grilled elote steak tacos with blue cheese. Save
Grilled elote steak tacos with blue cheese. | lilicooks.com

Serving Suggestions

Set out sides like black beans Mexican rice or a simple salad with avocado Chips and salsa or a smoky chipotle crema are perfect for dipping For a crowd arrange all the taco fixings so everyone can build their own plate

Cultural and Historical Context

Elote or Mexican street corn is a beloved snack usually sold by street vendors and often covered in mayo cotija cheese lime and chili powder Bringing elote to tacos combines two icons of Mexican cuisine for a dish that feels celebratory any night of the week

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While ribeye provides rich flavor and tenderness, skirt or flank steak also work beautifully when sliced thinly.

→ How do I char corn without a grill?

If you don’t have a grill, roast the corn under a broiler or in a hot cast iron pan, turning frequently for an even char.

→ What does cotija cheese add to the tacos?

Cotija brings a salty, creamy note that pairs wonderfully with the smoky corn and steak, enhancing the overall flavor.

→ Are corn or flour tortillas better?

Both work well! Corn tortillas offer a classic taste with added texture, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable.

→ Can I make the elote topping ahead?

Yes! Prepare the elote mix and store it in the fridge, then grill steak and warm tortillas just before serving for best taste.

→ How can I adjust spice levels?

Add more jalapeño slices or a dash of chili powder for extra kick, or omit jalapeño entirely for a milder flavor.

Grilled Elote Steak Tacos

Juicy grilled ribeye, smoky corn, citrusy crema, and cotija create irresistible, fresh tacos on your table.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
30 min
Overall Time
45 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: Mexican

Output: 4 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

01 2 ribeye steaks
02 Salt and pepper, to taste
03 4 ears of corn, husked
04 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
05 2 tablespoons sour cream
06 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
07 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
08 Juice of 1 lime
09 Zest of 1 lime (optional)
10 8 small flour or corn tortillas
11 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for jalapeño crème)

Steps

Step 01

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 02

Place the husked corn on the grill. Cook, turning occasionally, until the corn is charred and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a large bowl.

Step 03

In the large bowl with the corn kernels, add the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, cotija cheese, lime juice, and lime zest (if using). Mix well to combine.

Step 04

Season the ribeyes with salt and pepper. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 05

Place the tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute per side, or until they are warmed and slightly charred.

Step 06

To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of grilled steak onto each tortilla. Top with a generous spoonful of the elote mixture.

Step 07

If desired, you can add some thinly sliced jalapeños on top of the elote mixture for an extra kick.

Step 08

Serve the Grilled Steak Elote Tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Required Tools

  • Grill
  • Large bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Dairy (cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise)
  • Gluten (if using flour tortillas)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Fats: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Proteins: 28 g