Grilled Elote Steak Tacos
Table of Contents
Growing up, the kitchen was always the heart of our home. The aromas of home-cooked meals would dance through the air, wrapping us in warmth and comfort. One of my fondest memories involves gathering around the table with my family, eagerly awaiting the delicious feast my mom would prepare. Today, I want to share a recipe that brings back that same nostalgic feeling, transcending time and place: Grilled Elote Steak Tacos. These tacos are more than just a meal; they’re an experience that combines the smoky flavors of grilled steak with the creamy, zesty goodness of elote. Imagine biting into a taco that has the perfect balance of textures and flavors, offering a little something for everyone at the table. These tacos are a testament to the joy of simple, home-cooked meals that bring families together, sparking conversations and creating memories. And the best part? They’re easy enough for anyone to make, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
These Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican fare, perfect for any occasion. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your table:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of grilled steak and creamy elote creates a burst of flavors in every bite, making these tacos irresistible. The steak’s smoky, charred exterior pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy elote, creating a dynamic taste sensation.
- Nostalgia Factor: This recipe captures the essence of family gatherings and shared meals, bringing a sense of warmth and togetherness to your table. Each bite invites memories of family dinners and cherished moments, fostering a connection that transcends the meal itself.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these tacos are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend feast. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or whipping up a quick meal after work, these tacos fit the bill.
- Versatile Serving: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration, these tacos are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds. You can dress them up with additional toppings or keep them simple, allowing for a versatile dining experience.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up these delightful bites, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade snacks.
- Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for getting that perfect char on the steak and corn. If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan works wonders to impart those desirable grill marks.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the steak and cutting the corn kernels off the cob. A well-maintained sharp knife makes prep work faster and safer, ensuring clean cuts and easy handling.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the elote ingredients into a creamy, flavorful mixture. Opt for a medium-sized bowl to have enough room for thorough mixing without spilling.
- Tongs: Handy for flipping the steak and corn on the grill. They give you control and precision, making it easy to maneuver the ingredients without getting too close to the heat.
- Cutting Board: A stable surface for preparing all your ingredients. Choose a sturdy board that doesn’t slip, providing a safe base for chopping and slicing tasks.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 2 ribeyes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ears of corn husked
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- Juice of 1 lime
- Zest of 1 lime optional
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 jalapeño thinly sliced (optional, for jalapeño crème)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A well-preheated grill ensures even cooking and those beautiful grill marks.
- 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. Charring the corn adds a smoky depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of your elote.
- 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. The cotija cheese adds a salty, tangy note, while the lime brightens the dish with a refreshing zest.
- 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. Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy slices.
- Place the tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute per side, or until they are warmed and slightly charred. Grilling the tortillas enhances their flavor and gives them a delightful, toasty texture.
- To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of grilled steak onto each tortilla. Top with a generous spoonful of the elote mixture. The combination of warm steak and creamy elote creates a symphony of flavors and textures.
- If desired, you can add some thinly sliced jalapeños on top of the elote mixture for an extra kick. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the jalapeños add a spicy contrast to the creamy, tangy elote.
- Serve the Grilled Steak Elote Tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime over the assembled tacos brightens the flavors and ties all the elements together.
Difficulty: Medium • Cuisine: Mexican • Preparation Time: 15 minutes • Cooking Time: 20 minutes • Total Time: 35 minutes • Calories: 450 per serving • Servings: 4
Note: For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before slicing. This simple modification can help control the spice level, making the tacos more palatable for those with sensitive taste buds.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
These Grilled Elote Steak Tacos not only promise delightful flavors but also come with some surprising benefits:
- Corn: A good source of fiber and vitamins, corn adds a natural sweetness and crunch to the tacos. Its complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy, making it a wholesome addition.
- Ribeye Steak: High in protein, this cut of beef is flavorful and satisfying. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and ribeye offers a rich, savory taste that elevates the dish.
- Cilantro: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, cilantro adds a fresh, vibrant taste. It also contains natural detoxifying properties, contributing to a healthy diet.
- Cotija Cheese: Provides calcium and a rich, creamy flavor that complements the grilled steak and corn. This cheese is lower in fat compared to other options, making it a tasty yet mindful choice.
- Lime: Rich in vitamin C, lime juice adds a zesty kick that brightens the dish. It aids in digestion and boosts immunity, offering both flavor and health benefits.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
These Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are versatile companions to various beverages and dishes, making them perfect for any occasion:
- Margaritas: The citrusy flavors of a classic margarita pair beautifully with the zesty elote and savory steak. The sweet and tangy notes of the margarita complement and enhance the flavors of the tacos.
- Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy, seasoned Mexican rice complements the tacos and rounds out the meal. The rice provides a comforting base that balances the bold flavors of the tacos.
- Black Bean Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds color and nutrients to your plate. The beans offer protein and fiber, creating a well-rounded, satisfying dish.
- Avocado Salsa: Creamy and tangy, avocado salsa adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. The smooth richness of the avocado complements the smoky, spicy elements of the tacos.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
Leftovers of these tacos are a treat, and with a few tips, you can enjoy them just as much the next day. Store any leftover steak and elote mixture separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Proper storage ensures the freshness and flavor of your leftovers, making them just as delightful the next day.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, warm the steak gently on the stove or in the microwave, and reheat the elote mixture just until warm. Toast fresh tortillas on the grill or stovetop for a minute or two before assembling your tacos. This step revives the texture and taste, bringing your tacos back to life.
Add a squeeze of lime to freshen up the flavors, and enjoy a second round of this delicious meal. The citrus adds a burst of freshness, making the leftovers feel like a new meal. There’s something truly magical about the process of creating and sharing food with loved ones. These Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are more than a recipe; they’re an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and create lasting memories. I hope this dish brings as much joy to your home as it does to mine. Happy cooking!
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Grilled Elote Steak Tacos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Place the tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute per side, or until they are warmed and slightly charred.
- To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of grilled steak onto each tortilla. Top with a generous spoonful of the elote mixture.
- If desired, you can add some thinly sliced jalapeños on top of the elote mixture for an extra kick.
- Serve the Grilled Steak Elote Tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.
