Imagine biting into a taco filled with tender, smoky steak, slathered in creamy elote goodness, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. The flavors will dance on your palate like they just got invited to the hottest party in town! When you think of Grilled Elote Steak Tacos, picture summer barbecues and cozy gatherings where everyone fights over the last taco—because let’s be honest, no one wants to share these little bundles of joy. zesty pasta salad to serve.

I remember the first time I tried Grilled Elote Steak Tacos at a friend’s backyard fiesta. The sun was setting, the music was pumping, and the aroma wafting from the grill made my stomach rumble louder than a freight train. I took one bite, and it felt like a flavor explosion! Ever since then, I’ve been on a mission to perfect this recipe so that you can recreate that magical moment anytime you want. refreshing summer drink pairing tropical pineapple salsa recipe These tacos are perfect for summer picnics or even a cozy dinner when you want to impress someone special. Get ready for an incredible flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are not only easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors that will have your taste buds singing
- The visual appeal is undeniable, with colorful toppings that make every plate look Instagram-worthy
- They’re versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a regular Wednesday craving!
- Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings for a personal twist
Ingredients for Grilled Elote Steak Tacos
For more inspiration, check out this chipotle honey salmon tacos recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Flank Steak: This cut is ideal for grilling; it’s flavorful and tender when cooked right.
Tortillas: Choose soft corn tortillas for an authentic taste; flour tortillas work too if you prefer.
Fresh Corn: Use sweet corn on the cob; it adds natural sweetness and texture to your tacos.
Mayonnaise: A creamy base for your elote sauce; it adds richness without overwhelming other flavors.
Chili Powder: This spice gives your tacos that signature kick; adjust according to your heat tolerance.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the flavors and balances everything beautifully.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
For the Sauce:
Queso Fresco: Crumbled queso fresco brings creaminess and saltiness that complements the steak perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Elote Steak Tacos
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Flank Steak
Start by marinating your flank steak in lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Let it soak up those flavors for at least an hour—longer if you have time!
Step 2: Grill the Corn
While your steak marinates, grill the corn on high heat until charred and tender. This usually takes about 10 minutes. Once done, let it cool before cutting off the kernels.
Step 3: Prepare the Elote Sauce
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise with grilled corn kernels, cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, and additional chili powder if you’re feeling adventurous. Stir until well combined—it should be creamy with little pops of corn throughout!
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated flank steak for about 5-7 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired doneness (aim for medium rare!). Let it rest before slicing against the grain.
Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
Warm up your tortillas on the grill or in a pan. Place sliced steak on each tortilla and generously top it with that zesty elote sauce we whipped up! Add extra cilantro if you’d like—it never hurts!
Step 6: Serve with Lime Wedges
Transfer to plates and serve immediately alongside lime wedges for squeezing over those glorious tacos—trust me; this is where flavor magic happens!
Now go ahead and enjoy these delightful Grilled Elote Steak Tacos! They are bound to become a household favorite as they bring together good food and great memories every time you indulge in them.
You Must Know
- Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance
- These tacos are not only easy to prepare but also customizable, ensuring they resonate with everyone at your dinner table
- Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners, they bring a fiesta feel to any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the steak; while it soaks up those delicious flavors, grill the corn until charred. Once done, chop the corn and prepare your toppings while grilling the steak to perfection. It’s all about multitasking for maximum flavor and minimal fuss.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the steak for chicken or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian twist. Add different spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick, and don’t forget to throw in your favorite toppings like avocado or jalapeños!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Grilled Elote Steak Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on a skillet over medium heat until heated through, ensuring they maintain their deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your steak overnight if possible; it intensifies the flavor significantly
- Use fresh corn on the cob for better texture and sweetness
- Don’t rush the grilling — let each side get that beautiful char!
The first time I made these tacos, my friends devoured them within minutes! Their laughter and compliments filled my kitchen with joy, making this recipe a cherished favorite among my circle.
FAQs :
What are Grilled Elote Steak Tacos?
Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are a delicious Mexican-inspired dish featuring tender grilled steak, fresh corn, and traditional elote toppings. The steak is marinated for maximum flavor and grilled to perfection. The tacos are then filled with a mix of grilled corn, lime juice, cotija cheese, and spices that give them a unique taste and texture. They pair well with fresh herbs and avocado for added richness. These tacos are perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
How do I prepare the steak for Grilled Elote Steak Tacos?
To prepare the steak for Grilled Elote Steak Tacos, start by selecting a good cut of meat, such as flank or skirt steak. Marinate it in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, chili powder, and cumin for at least 30 minutes. This infuses the steak with flavor and promotes tenderness. After marinating, grill the steak on high heat until it reaches your desired doneness. Allow it to rest before slicing it thinly against the grain to ensure each bite is juicy and flavorful. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter steak bites recipe.
Can I make Grilled Elote Steak Tacos vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make Grilled Elote Steak Tacos vegetarian! Instead of using steak, substitute it with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or portobello mushrooms. You can also use plant-based proteins such as tofu or tempeh marinated in the same spices for added flavor. Top your tacos with grilled corn and the same elote-style toppings for a delightful vegetarian twist that everyone will enjoy.
What toppings go well with Grilled Elote Steak Tacos?
Toppings play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of Grilled Elote Steak Tacos. Traditional toppings include crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, diced onions, and fresh lime wedges. For added spice, consider including sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy crema. Avocado or guacamole adds creaminess that complements the smoky flavors of the grilled steak and corn. Feel free to mix and match toppings according to your preferences!
Conclusion for Grilled Elote Steak Tacos :
Grilled Elote Steak Tacos offer an exciting fusion of flavors, combining savory grilled steak with vibrant elote-inspired toppings. By marinating your steak properly and grilling it to perfection, you achieve tender slices bursting with taste. Whether you choose to enjoy them as is or add your favorite toppings like cotija cheese or avocado, these tacos promise satisfaction at every bite. Perfect for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings, they are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire!

Grilled Elote Steak Tacos
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Elote Steak Tacos combine succulent marinated flank steak with sweet grilled corn and a zesty elote sauce, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners, these tacos are bursting with vibrant flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Easy to prepare and customizable, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 ears fresh corn (kernels removed)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
Instructions
- Marinate the flank steak in lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt for at least 1 hour.
- Grill the corn on high heat until charred (about 10 minutes), then let cool and remove kernels.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise with grilled corn, cilantro, and additional chili powder for the elote sauce.
- Grill the marinated flank steak for about 5-7 minutes per side until desired doneness; let rest before slicing against the grain.
- Warm tortillas on the grill or in a pan, fill with sliced steak, and top with elote sauce and extra cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg