Name: Steak Elote Tacos: A Flavor-Packed Summer Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces ribeyes (This marbled cut is perfect for grilling.); to taste salt (Essential seasoning that enhances flavor.); to taste pepper (Essential seasoning that enhances flavor.); 4 ears corn (Fresh corn elevates the taco experience.); 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Adds a creamy texture.); 2 tablespoons sour cream (Provides tanginess.); 1/4 cup cilantro (Chopped for brightness.); 1/2 cup cotija cheese (Enhances flavor with its salty texture.); 1 piece lime (Juice to add acidity.); 1 piece lime zest (Optional for extra flavor.); 8 small tortillas (Flour or corn based on preference.); 1 piece jalapeño (Thinly sliced, optional for heat.)

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The sizzle of steak on the grill is a sound that ignites a sense of summer celebration in the air. This Grilled Steak Elote Tacos recipe brings together the juicy tenderness of perfectly grilled ribeye with a creamy corn topping inspired by the beloved Mexican street food, elote. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lively cookouts, but it’s also customizable to suit your spice level—add a touch of jalapeño if you crave some heat! Imagine yourself gathering with family and friends, enjoying these tacos filled with flavor and heart. Ready to dig into a taste of summer?

Why Are Steak Elote Tacos Irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these tacos bursts with the rich, smoky goodness of grilled steak and the creamy sweetness of elote, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
Easy to Customize: Whether you prefer mild or fiery, the optional jalapeño adds just the right kick to suit your taste.
Perfect for Gatherings: These tacos are a hit at summer barbecues, sure to impress your guests with their vibrant colors and bold flavors.
Quick Prep Time: With minimal ingredients and straightforward grilling instructions, you’ll have dinner ready in no time—ideal for busy families! Want an even faster dish? Check out our Garlic Butter Steak for another delicious option.
Satisfying and Filling: Packed with protein and freshness, they make for a hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Serve with a side of black beans or Mexican rice for a complete feast!

Steak Elote Tacos Ingredients

For the Steak
• Ribeyes – This marbled cut is perfect for grilling, ensuring a juicy result; sirloin is a leaner alternative.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the steak’s natural flavor; don’t skip these.

For the Elote Mixture
• Corn (4 ears, husked) – The sweetness from fresh corn elevates the taco experience; substitute with canned or frozen corn if needed.
• Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons) – Adds a creamy texture to the elote; Greek yogurt works well for a lighter option.
• Sour Cream (2 tablespoons) – Provides a tangy note; plain yogurt can be a healthy substitute.
• Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped) – Freshly chopped cilantro brings brightness; consider using parsley if you’re not a fan.
• Cotija Cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled) – This cheese enhances the corn’s flavor with its salty, crumbly texture; feta is a good alternative.
• Juice of 1 Lime – Adds acidity to balance the richness; lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
• Zest of 1 Lime (optional) – For an extra burst of citrus aroma and flavor.

For the Tacos
• Tortillas (8 small, flour or corn) – Holds everything together; choose based on your texture preference.
• Jalapeño (1, thinly sliced, optional) – Adds a spicy kick for those who love heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance.

These flavorful Steak Elote Tacos are sure to impress at your next gathering or simply make any meal feel like a special occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Elote Tacos

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, husk the corn and remove any silk strands, ensuring the ears are clean and ready for grilling. Prepare a large bowl to hold the corn once it’s grilled. This is the perfect time to gather all your ingredients and tools for assembling the Steak Elote Tacos!

Step 2: Grill the Corn
Place the husked corn directly onto the hot grill grates. Grill the corn for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s nicely charred and tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the kernels are bright yellow and developed deep grill marks. Once done, remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly before cutting off the kernels with a sharp knife.

Step 3: Prepare the Elote Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, lime juice, and optional lime zest. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, creating a creamy corn topping. This flavorful elote mixture will add richness to your Steak Elote Tacos, offering a taste of summer with each bite.

Step 4: Grill the Steak
Season the ribeyes generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the steaks onto the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness—look for a beautifully browned crust. Once cooked, transfer them to a cutting board and let them rest for about 5 minutes, maintaining their juiciness before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 5: Toast the Tortillas
While the steak rests, place the small tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute per side, just until they become warm and slightly charred. This will enhance their flavor and help them hold the juicy fillings of the Steak Elote Tacos better. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Now it’s time to assemble your Steak Elote Tacos! Take a warm tortilla and lay it flat. Add a generous portion of sliced steak on top, followed by a heaping spoonful of the elote mixture. These layers of flavors and textures will create a delicious blend that’s hard to resist.

Step 7: Optional Jalapeño Crème
If you like a kick of heat, add thinly sliced jalapeños over the elote topping right before serving. This optional step allows you to customize your Steak Elote Tacos, bringing an extra layer of flavor for those who enjoy spicy dishes.

Step 8: Serve
Plate your beautifully assembled Steak Elote Tacos and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing. The fresh citrus will brighten each bite, making this meal not only delicious but also visually appealing for your guests or family to enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the elote mixture up to 3 days in advance by mixing the grilled corn with mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, cotija, lime juice, and zest, then storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can marinate and grill the ribeye steaks up to 24 hours beforehand; just slice them thinly and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble. To maintain quality, ensure all components are stored properly and only warm the tortillas briefly before serving. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the steak and tortillas, then load up your tacos with the creamy elote mixture for a delightful, effortless meal!

Expert Tips for Steak Elote Tacos

Rest the Steak: Allow your grilled ribeyes to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to ensure maximum juiciness.

Slice Against the Grain: This is crucial! Slicing against the grain of the steak will yield more tender bites for your Steak Elote Tacos.

Mix it Up: Feel free to adjust the elote mixture by adding more lime or cilantro based on your taste preferences—it’s all about customization!

Don’t Rush the Grill: Give your corn enough grilling time to develop that beautiful char. This enhances the sweetness and adds depth to your tacos.

Warm Tortillas: Always toast the tortillas just before assembling. This makes them more flavorful and less prone to tearing when full of delicious fillings!

Serve Fresh: For the best experience, assemble and serve these tacos immediately after making, ensuring a warm and satisfying meal.

What to Serve with Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

Elevate your summer dining experience by pairing these vibrant tacos with delightful sides and drinks that perfectly complement their rich flavors.

Creamy Mexican Rice: This classic side dish adds a smooth, comforting texture that balances the bold flavors of the tacos.
Zesty Black Beans: A spoonful of seasoned black beans provides a hearty, protein-packed contrast that enhances the meal’s nutritional value.
Fresh Pico de Gallo: The zesty crunch of this salsa adds a refreshing bite, brightening up each taco with vibrant colors and flavors.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and onions not only add a pop of color but also a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the steak.
Margaritas: A refreshing margarita—sweet, tangy, and served on the rocks—invites a fiesta vibe and complements the flavors of the tacos seamlessly.
Watermelon Salad: A light, juicy watermelon salad offers a sweet contrast to the savory tacos, making every bite feel like a summer treat.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For a delightful finish, indulge in crispy churros dusted with sugar, accompanied by a rich chocolate dipping sauce—a sweet end to your meal!

How to Store and Freeze Steak Elote Tacos

Fridge: Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the steak and elote mixture separate to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you want to freeze the elote mixture, it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before using.

Reheating: To reheat steak, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture tender.

Tortilla Storage: For extra tortillas, store in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the freezer for longer storage. Enjoy your delicious Steak Elote Tacos!

Steak Elote Tacos Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these steak tacos; every twist adds a unique flair that brings joy to your family’s dinner table!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with a dairy-free version or avocado for creaminess without dairy. A deliciously rich taste awaits!
Vegan: Swap steak for grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu and use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese for a satisfying meatless option. Your taste buds won’t even miss the meat!
Extra Heat: Add smoky chipotle powder or diced serrano peppers into the elote mixture for a deeper flavor and kick. This will elevate every bite with deep, captivating heat.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy twist or a tangy goat cheese to complement the sweet corn. Each cheese brings its own personality to the dish!
Grilled Veggies: Toss some bell peppers, zucchini, or onions on the grill alongside your steak to add vibrant colors and a fresh crunch to your tacos. It’s an easy way to boost vegetables while enhancing the flavor!
Corn Alternative: For a unique twist, consider using roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash instead of corn. The sweetness will pair beautifully with the seasoned steak, creating a mouthwatering balance.
Herb Swaps: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, try fresh basil or mint for a refreshing twist that brightens up the elote mixture. Each herb brings its own charm!
Citrus Kick: For an extra zesty flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the elote mixture along with lime—this unexpected burst of freshness will awaken your taste buds!

These variations ensure that your Steak Elote Tacos remain both exciting and consistent with your personal preferences. Don’t forget to pair them with a refreshing drink like homemade aguas frescas, and check out our Garlic Butter Steak for another superb grilling recipe!

Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Recipe FAQs

What kind of corn is best for the elote mixture?
Absolutely! Fresh corn on the cob is ideal for the elote mixture, as it brings natural sweetness and a wonderful crunch. Look for ears that are bright yellow with plump kernels. If fresh corn isn’t available, canned or frozen corn can serve as suitable substitutes, though the texture may be slightly different.

How should I store leftover grilled steak and tacos?
You can store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best quality, I recommend keeping the steak and elote mixture separate to preserve freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reassemble your tacos or heat the filling!

What are the freezing instructions for the elote mixture?
Great question! To freeze the elote mixture, place it in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the mixture in the fridge overnight. This makes it super convenient for quick meal prep!

I’m concerned about spicy food; how can I adjust the heat?
Very understandable! If you prefer milder flavors, simply omit the jalapeño or use a small amount as a garnish rather than mixing it into the elote. You can also replace the spicy toppings with some creamy avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make these delicious Steak Elote Tacos gluten-free, switch to corn tortillas instead of flour. They offer a wonderful flavor and texture while ensuring that everyone can enjoy this meal without concern. Just check the packaging to confirm they are certified gluten-free!

Any tips on avoiding tough steak?
Absolutely! To ensure you get tender steak for your tacos, always slice against the grain after allowing it to rest for about 5 minutes post-grilling. This technique shortens the muscle fibers and yields a more enjoyable texture in each bite. Additionally, don’t skimp on letting it marinate or sit for a bit in seasoning before grilling!