17 Elote Recipes With Authentic Mexican Taste

1. Traditional Elote

Several types of elote are generally available today including the original elote which is simply grilled corn on the cob smothered in mayonnaise. The corn is adorned with cotija cheese, which is a salty and crumbly Mexican cheese, and chili powder that brings a hint of heat. 

Last but not least, it adds freshness with a hint of lime juice squeezed right before serving the dish. This recipe for elote makes a nice smooth, spicy, and somewhat salty flavor to complement the sweetness of the grilled corn.

2. Elote Loco (Crazy Elote)

Elote Loco literally means crazy corn and they don’t disappoint as they have an extensive list of toppings. The corn is dressed in mayonnaise and crema, followed by cotija cheese and chili powder for a finishing touch. 

It does not end there though; sprinkling of bacon bits, crushed Takis and a dash of Valentina hot sauce adds an extra dimension to the taste. It is tasty and even more lavish than the regular elote, which makes this version a must try for all.

3. Elote en Vaso (Elote in a Cup)

Elote en vaso is deconstructed elote served in a cup, making it perfect for eating while on the go. Grilled corn kernels are detached from the cob and presented in a cup. They are then combined with mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder. 

For those who do not wish to have their hands messy with corn kernels, this dish has been prepared in a way that makes it easy to consume with a spoon, and yet all the flavors are retained. This is an amazing Mexican elote corn recipe that must be tried by everyone.

4. Elote con Crema (Grilled Corn With Crema)

Elote con Crema is pretty similar to elote with mayonnaise but the main difference here is that they use Mexican crema instead. The corn is grilled and then generously brushed with the crema and sprinkled with the cotija cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. 

The crema brings a deeper, somewhat sourish note, which is perfect when combined with the corn and all the other ingredients. This unique tasting recipe for elote, is a standout among many others.

5. Elote Hervido

Elote Hervido is a modified version of the elote served on the streets by being boiled instead of roasted. The corn on the cob is first steamed until soft and then drizzled with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. 

Some of the essential flavors in elote include natural sweet corn flavor followed by the creamy tangy and spicy flavors in the preparation. If you are wondering how to make elote a bit differently, this recipe is definitely worth a try.

6. Elote Asado (Grilled Elote)

Grilled corn is the main focus in Elote Asado. The corn is roasted until slightly burnt on the outside and soft in the center then basted with butter, lime juice, and chili powder. This blend imparts a deep, tangy, slightly spicy character to the corn.

A the end, the corn is topped with a sprinkle of cotija cheese, giving it a salty and creamy undertone. This variation brings out the natural sweetness of the corn while giving it a rich barbecue taste from the grilling process. As it is easy to make, this is a beloved recipe for elote.

7. Elote With Tajin

Elote with Tajin is a perfect match because Tajin is a commonly used seasoning in Mexican dishes and is made from chili powder, lime, and salt. Some people like to grill the corn and before grilling they apply a thin layer of mayonnaise to help the Tajin stick to the corn better. 

The seasoning is really zesty, a little sour, and mildly spicy, which blends in very well with the sweet corn. One final squeeze of lime juice boosts the citrus, and this version of elote is fresh and perfectly tasty. This makes this recipe a very simple yet scrumptious treat.

8. Spicy Elote

There is also spicy elote available for those who love the spicy side of things. Corn on the cob grilled is slathered in mayonnaise or butter, which is then dusted with hot chili powder and a hint of cayenne pepper. This addition of extra chili makes the recipe a unique one among the others.

These two blends combine to give a powerful and sharp heat that complements the already sweet nature of corn. Lastly, to balance the heat, the elote is topped with a lot of cotija cheese and a wedge of lime for those who prefer a more tangy flavor.

9. Elote Salad

Elote salad changes the essence of elote flavor to a salad that is new and colorful. The grilled corn kernels are removed from the cob and added to avocado, red onion, chopped coriander, and crumbled white cheese called cotija.

Finally, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and chili powder dressing are poured over the salad, combining all the flavors. This salad is perfect for any summer get-together as it is a side dish that everyone can enjoy, with a taste of sweet creaminess, tangy cheese, and spicy jalapenos in each spoon.

10. Elote With Avocado

Grilling the corn and adding avocado makes for a more rich and healthy variation. Corn on the cob is grilled and served with mashed avocado that has been tossed in lime juice, salt, and chili powder. The avocados are creamy and have that buttery mild taste that goes so well with the sweet corn.

Cotija cheese is crumbled on top, and an extra sprinkle of chili powder adds a bit of heat. This variation offers an innovative, nutritious, and tasteful change to a classic elote recipe.

11. Elote con Tocino (Elote With Bacon)

Elote con Tocino is a great dish of roasted corn with a rich taste of bacon. The corn is coated with a spread that is made from a mixture of mayonnaise and bacon which forms a creamy layer. Finally, crushed bacon is spread on top of the mixture, giving a chewy, salty feel to the dish. 

To finish the preparation, Cotija cheese and just a sprinkle of chili powder are added, making the dish tangy and spicy. The flavor of bacon is more powerful and it complements the grilled corn and the creamy sauce to give a delicious and fulfilling take on elote that everyone who loves bacon will find palatable.

12. Elote con Salsa (Elote With Salsa)

Elote con Salsa features a flavorful spicy salsa containing tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chili peppers. The salsa is poured over the corn after it is grilled, making it moist and zesty. Cotija cheese is then sprinkled over the top as it provides an extra salty and tangy feel to the dish. 

The salsa contributes an exciting citrusy tang that harmonizes with the roasted corn flavor and chili pepper giving it a spicy sensation This version is much to the delight of those who crave the classic elote but with a twist that is both thrilling and tasty.

13. Elote con Hongos (Elote With Mushrooms)

Elote con Hongos has sauteed mushrooms with the smoky sweetness of the grilled corn. The corn is topped with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and mayonnaise to give a smooth and rich taste. The Cotija cheese is then crumbled over the top layer, which provides a salty and tangy flavor to the dish. 

For a hint of spiciness, a pinch of chili powder is added to the dish to complement the taste of the chicken. The mushrooms sauteed provide a string tangy profile, and when combined with the smoky corn and creamy toppings, this version is quite heartwarming.

14. Elote con Rajas (Elote With Roasted Peppers)

Elote con Rajas has roasted bell peppers that have a smoky and slightly sweet taste. The corn is grilled and coated with a blend of baked and cut bell peppers together with mayonnaise. Afterward, cotija cheese is sprinkled over the top to enhance its saltiness and tartness. 

Chili powder gives a hint of heat that blends well with the smokiness and sweetness that characterize most peppers and corn. This version is a real treat to the taste buds, as the roasted peppers give the elote a totally new taste which is quite enjoyable.

15. Elote con Camarones (Elote With Shrimp)

Elote con Camarones is a type of elote, which incorporates shrimp into the dish. The grilled corn is served with a white sauce prepared using mayonnaise, sour cream, and sauteed shrimp.

On top of the casserole, cotija cheese is spread, giving the dish a salty and a little sour tone. For a bit of spice, a dash of chili powder adds a hint of heat to the rich, creamy, and savory taste of the dish.

The shrimp that were cooked in a skillet are tasty and slightly sweet so they blend well with the grilled corn and creamy sauce. This version is quite enjoyable to those who enjoy a balance between land and sea; it is definitely tasty.

16. Elote con Chorizo (Elote With Chorizo)

Elote con Chorizo fuses the grilling flavor of corn with the spicing up and juiciness of the Mexican chorizo. The corn is covered with cooked chorizo and mayonnaise to guarantee it is tasty and moist. Shredded cotija cheese is then sprinkled over the top, which lends a salty, tangy bite to the dish.

A pinch of chili powder adds a little spiciness that complements the taste of other spices as well. The chorizo adds a strong meat flavor that complements the grilled corn and will allow the other toppings to make this dish a delicious take on elote.

17. Elote con Chicharrón (Elote With Pork Rinds)

Elote con Chicharrón consists of grilled corn on the cob and fried pork skin. It is then covered with a crushed pork rind and mayonnaise paste which gives it a crispy and cheesy feel.

Then Cotija cheese is sprinkled over it to give a salty and tangy aspect to the pasta dish. A little chili powder adds some heat but it is not overwhelming, rather it complements the flavor.

The pork rinds provide a crispy texture and intense meaty taste which complements the sweet and smoky corn and the creaminess of all the toppings that make this version a fun and delicious twist.