Name: Savory Grilled Steak Elote Tacos for Your Summer Cookouts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Ribeyes (Select well-marbled cuts for the juiciest flavor and tenderness.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Essential seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the steak.); 1 teaspoon Pepper (Essential seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the steak.); 4 ears Corn (Husked; grilling enhances sweetness and adds smokiness.); 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (Provides creaminess; try Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute.); 2 tablespoons Sour Cream (Adds a tangy flavor; swap with crema for a more authentic taste.); 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (Offers fresh herbal notes that beautifully balance the richness.); 1/2 cup Crumbled Cotija Cheese (This adds a salty texture; feta cheese can work as an alternative.); 1 unit Juice of Lime (Brightens the mix; fresh lime juice packs a zesty punch.); 1 unit Zest of Lime (Optional; takes the citrus flavor up a notch for the elote.); 8 pieces Small Flour or Corn Tortillas (Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.); 1 unit Jalapeño (Sliced, optional; adjust to taste!)

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As I stood at the grill, a waft of smoky char mingled with the sweet aroma of corn, instantly transporting me to a vibrant Mexican mercado. Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are the heart and soul of summer gatherings, marrying tender, juicy steak with the creamy, zesty kick of elote, the classic Mexican street corn. The best part? This recipe not only delivers a delightful explosion of flavors but also allows for endless customization—from a hint of spice to a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Perfect for those laid-back barbecues or impressive family dinners, these tacos are bound to bring everyone to the table! Are you ready to elevate your outdoor cooking with a dish that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat?

Why Make Grilled Steak Elote Tacos?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite offers a delightful mix of smoky steak and the creamy sweetness of grilled elote, creating an unforgettable taste experience.

Easy to Customize: Adjust spice levels or toppings to fit your family’s preferences, from mild to fiery!

Perfect for Summer: These tacos are ideal for summer cookouts, making outdoor gatherings even more enjoyable and delicious.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them at barbecues or casual dinners, and watch your guests rave about these flavorful tacos.

Quick and Simple: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these tacos in no time, allowing for more quality time with your loved ones.

For more delicious taco options, check out my recipes for Crockpot Chicken Tacos and Poblano Chicken Tacos.

Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Ingredients

• Get ready to create a mouthwatering dish!

For the Steak

Ribeyes – Select well-marbled cuts for the juiciest flavor and tenderness.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the steak.

For the Elote Mixture

Ears of Corn (4, husked) – Grilling these enhances sweetness and adds a smoky touch to the tacos.
Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons) – Provides creaminess; try Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute.
Sour Cream (2 tablespoons) – Adds a tangy flavor; swap with crema for a more authentic taste.
Chopped Cilantro (1/4 cup) – Offers fresh herbal notes that beautifully balance the richness.
Crumbled Cotija Cheese (1/2 cup) – This adds a salty texture; feta cheese can work as an alternative.
Juice of 1 Lime – Brightens the mix; fresh lime juice packs a zesty punch.
Zest of 1 Lime (optional) – Takes the citrus flavor up a notch for the elote.

For Assembling the Tacos

Small Flour or Corn Tortillas (8) – Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option—ideal to hold all the delicious fillings.
Jalapeño (1, sliced, optional) – For those who appreciate a bit of spice, adjust to your taste!

Dive into this delightful recipe for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos that’s perfect for your summer cookouts!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. This ensures a perfect sear on your steak and helps in charring the corn for that smokiness. While the grill heats up, gather and prepare all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Grill the Corn
Place the husked ears of corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is charred and tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the kernels are golden and slightly caramelized. Once done, remove the corn and set it aside to cool before cutting the kernels into a bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Elote Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, crumbled Cotija cheese, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir everything together until well combined, creating a creamy and zesty elote mixture. This delightful blend will add a burst of flavor to your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.

Step 4: Grill the Steak
Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. Place the steaks on the preheated grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired doneness (135°F). Once grilled, let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing them thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Step 5: Toast the Tortillas
Next, it’s time to toast your tortillas. Place them on the grill for about 1 minute on each side, just until they are warmed through and have faint grill marks. This process adds a lovely texture to the tortillas, making them the perfect base for your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Take a toasted tortilla and generously layer with the sliced steak. Top it off with a spoonful of the creamy elote mixture, ensuring every bite offers a delightful balance of flavors. If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add sliced jalapeño on top for an extra kick.

Step 7: Serve Immediately
Serve your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos right away while warm, garnished with lime wedges for an extra squeeze of citrus if desired. These scrumptious tacos are best enjoyed fresh from the grill, bringing vibrant summer flavors to your table!

Storage Tips for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

Fridge: Store any leftover elote mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This creamy blend maintains its flavor and freshness well in the fridge.

Freezer: If you want to freeze any grilled steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the steak in the fridge overnight, then reheat it on a skillet until warmed through before assembling your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.

Assembling Tacos: For the best taste, avoid pre-assembling the tacos; instead, combine fresh ingredients right before serving to keep the tortillas crisp and flavors vibrant.

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can grill the corn and prepare the elote mixture up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating the mixture in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavors. Additionally, the ribeye steaks can be seasoned and marinated a day prior, then stored in the refrigerator; just remember to let them come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the marinated steaks, warm the tortillas for about 1 minute on each side, and assemble your delicious tacos for quick and flavorful results that everyone will love!

Variations & Substitutions for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

Feel free to add your own flair to these tacos with these exciting twists!

Steak Substitute: Swap ribeyes for sirloin or flank steak for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Each cut has its unique texture and taste, inviting a whole new experience.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace mayo and sour cream with avocado for a creamy texture that’s both rich and healthy. This swap maintains the incredible flavor while accommodating those watching their dairy intake.
Extra Crunch: Top your tacos with radishes or pickled onions for a burst of acidity and a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy elote mixture. These toppings not only add texture but also a refreshing bite to your tacos.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or mint in place of cilantro for a totally new flavor profile. Each herb can bring a unique twist, making your tacos refreshing and vibrant.
Spice It Up: Enhance the heat by adding diced serrano peppers or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the elote mixture. This simple addition can elevate the flavor to tantalizing new heights.
Corn Variation: Instead of fresh corn, use canned or frozen corn for a quick alternative; just sauté briefly to enhance the sweetness. While fresh is always marvelous, this option offers convenience for those busy weeknights!
Tortilla Options: Try switching from flour to corn tortillas for a gluten-free option that also brings authentic flavor. Corn tortillas can add a different texture that many taco lovers appreciate.
Zest Boost: Incorporate lime zest to the elote mixture to elevate the citrus flavor; this extra zing brightens the whole dish. It’s a small addition that packs a flavorful punch!

Feel inspired to create your own culinary adventure with these Grilled Steak Elote Tacos! And while you’re at it, check out other delicious taco ideas like my Ground Turkey Tacos for an easy weeknight option or my Cranberry Turkey Grilled for a unique twist!

Expert Tips for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

Room Temperature Steak: Allow ribeyes to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking and a perfect sear.

Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is fully heated before placing the steak and corn on it, which helps achieve that delicious smoky flavor.

Rest the Meat: Let the grilled steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing; this keeps the juices locked in, making your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos extra juicy.

Customize the Elote: Adjust the creaminess of the elote mixture by adding more or less mayo and sour cream, depending on your preference for a richer flavor.

Watch the Corn: Keep an eye on the corn as it grills; turning occasionally will ensure even charring without burning, enhancing the overall taste.

Feel the Heat: If you like it spicy, don’t hesitate to add more jalapeño slices or even a pinch of chili powder to the elote mixture for a kick!

What to Serve with Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

As the summer sun warms the air, imagine complementing your taco masterpiece with delightful sides and beverages that amplify those rich, smoky flavors.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up any leftover elote mixture, these crunchy delights add an exciting texture to your meal.
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and zesty, this avocado spread balances the richness of the tacos while providing a refreshing flavor burst.
Zesty Lime Rice: Fluffy rice enlivened with lime juice offers a bright, citrusy contrast that harmonizes beautifully with the savory tacos.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add a lovely hint of sweetness and an extra dose of fiber to your plate.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime enhances each bite with its vibrant, tangy flavors.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: A delightful riff on elote, this salad features a creamy dressing that pairs seamlessly with your main dish.
Crisp Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette invigorates the palate, complementing the bold flavors of the tacos.
Margaritas: A classic summer drink, the refreshing kick of lime and the sweetness of tequila create a perfect pairing for outdoor gatherings.
Flan: This creamy caramel dessert provides a lovely finish to your meal, balancing sweetness with a light texture that lingers on the palate.

Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of ribeye should I choose for my tacos?
Absolutely! When selecting ribeyes, look for cuts with good marbling, as this fat will render during cooking, ensuring a juicy and flavorful steak. The best ribeyes will have a nice balance of meat and fat, contributing to the rich taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy elote.

How do I store any leftover elote mixture?
Very! Transfer any leftover elote mixture to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This creamy blend keeps well, and you can easily use it as a topping for other dishes or as a dip for veggies. Just give it a good stir before using, as some separation may occur.

Can I freeze my grilled steak for later use?
Definitely! To freeze your grilled steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

What should I do if my corn isn’t grilling properly?
If your corn isn’t charring well, make sure the grill is adequately preheated to medium-high heat. If the corn is still not browning after a few minutes, try turning it more frequently to expose all sides to the heat. You’ll recognize it’s ready when the kernels are golden with a caramelized look, enhancing its sweetness and smokiness.

Are these tacos safe for my gluten-intolerant friends?
Absolutely! If you have gluten intolerances in your circle, opt for small corn tortillas instead of flour ones. Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free and will hold the delicious fillings without sacrificing taste or texture.

How can I customize the spice level of the tacos?
The more the merrier! To make the tacos spicier, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños to the elote mixture or serving them as a topping. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat according to your preference. Enjoy playing with flavors!