As I flipped through the vibrant pages of my favorite food magazine, my eyes landed on a tantalizing photograph of tacos that transported me straight to a bustling summer street fair. Those Grilled Steak Elote Tacos called out to me, promising the perfect blend of smoky grill marks and creamy elote deliciousness. These easy-to-make tacos aren’t just a feast for the eyes; they’re a crowd-pleaser that elevates any casual dinner or summer barbecue with their vibrant flavors and delightful textures. Featuring juicy ribeye steak and a zesty corn elote topping, they offer a delicious twist on traditional tacos that’s oh-so customizable. So, as the grill heats up, are you ready to fire up your culinary creativity and indulge in this taco bliss?
Why You’ll Crave Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Flavor Explosion: These tacos are a delicious fusion of grilled steak and the classic taste of elote, turning every bite into a mouthwatering experience.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward cooking steps, you’ll have tacos ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Customizable Options: Make them your own by swapping in different proteins or toppings—grilled chicken works wonderfully!
Vibrant Textures: The combination of tender ribeye, crunchy corn, and creamy sauce creates a symphony of textures that’s sure to satisfy.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether at a family BBQ or a casual dinner party, these tacos are always a showstopper that will impress guests! For more delightful taco inspiration, check out my Grilled Chicken Avocado recipe!
Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Ingredients
For the Steak
• Ribeyes – Juicy and tender base of the taco; can use flank steak or sirloin for a leaner option.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasoning to enhance flavor; use freshly ground for best taste.
For the Elote Mixture
• Corn (4 ears, husked) – Provides sweetness and a smoky flavor when grilled; can substitute with canned or frozen corn if fresh is unavailable.
• Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons) – Adds creaminess to the elote mixture; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Sour cream (2 tablespoons) – Balances flavors with a tang; can use Greek yogurt as a substitute.
• Chopped cilantro (1/4 cup) – Fresh herb providing a burst of flavor; omit for a non-cilantro fan or substitute with parsley.
• Crumbled cotija cheese (1/2 cup) – Adds salty, crumbly texture; feta cheese can be used as a substitute.
• Juice of 1 lime – Provides acidity to elevate flavors; fresh lime is preferred for optimal taste.
• Lime zest (optional) – Enhances citrus notes in the elote mixture.
For the Tacos
• Tortillas (8 small flour or corn) – Wrapping for the tacos; use corn for gluten-free options or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
• Jalapeño (1, thinly sliced, optional) – Adds heat to the tacos; can substitute with diced bell pepper for a milder flavor.
Dive into flavor with these Grilled Steak Elote Tacos and enjoy a vibrant taste of summer!
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 is crucial as it ensures those beautiful grill marks and charred flavors on your juicy ribeyes. While the grill heats up, gather and prep your ingredients, so everything is ready when you need it.
Step 2: Grill the Corn
Place the husked corn directly on the hot grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the kernels are charred and tender. You’ll know it’s done when the corn is golden brown and has a delightful smoky aroma. Once grilled, remove the corn and let it cool for a few minutes before carefully cutting the kernels off the cob.
Step 3: Prepare the Elote Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels, mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, lime juice, and optional lime zest. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy and vibrant. This elote topping will add a burst of flavor to your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos!
Step 4: Season and Grill Ribeyes
Generously season the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their rich flavor. Place the steaks on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach your desired doneness. Look for a nice sear on the outside, and let the steaks rest for a few minutes before slicing them thinly against the grain.
Step 5: Toast the Tortillas
While the steak is resting, reduce the grill’s heat slightly and toss the tortillas on for about 1 minute per side. You want them warm and slightly charred to bring out their flavor and provide a perfect wrap for your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos. Keep them warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel after grilling.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
To assemble your tacos, layer a generous slice of grilled steak on each tortilla, followed by a hearty scoop of the elote mixture. Let the vibrant flavors shine as the creamy corn topping complements the juicy steak. The combination creates a delicious taste experience in every bite.
Step 7: Add a Spicy Kick (Optional)
If you like a bit of heat, top your tacos with freshly sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference. The addition of jalapeños enhances the overall flavor profile of the Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
Serve your assembled Grilled Steak Elote Tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side. The fresh zest from the lime juice adds brightness and acidity, elevating the flavors even further. Enjoy this vibrant summer dish right off the grill!
What to Serve with Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Get ready to create a delightful summer feast that complements the bold flavors of your tacos!
Zesty Mexican Street Corn Salad: Bright, fresh, and crunchy, this salad echoes the elote topping with vibrant flavors. Combine diced tomatoes, red onion, and a squeeze of lime for an invigorating side.
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole paired with crispy tortilla chips adds a luscious contrast. The cool avocado balances the spiciness of the tacos perfectly.
Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and spicy pineapple salsa brings a tropical touch to your meal. The juicy bursts of pineapple add freshness that can’t be beaten!
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with a bright cilantro-lime flavor serves as a great base. Enjoy it alongside your tacos for extra comfort and satisfaction.
Grilled Vegetables: A mix of smoky red peppers, zucchini, and onions brings a healthy, colorful side. Their charred flavors complement the grilled steak beautifully.
Classic Margaritas: A refreshing pitcher of classic margaritas elevates your meal. The citrus notes in the drink harmonize wonderfully with the zesty taco flavors.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy churros. Their warm, sugary goodness pairs delightfully with rich chocolate sauce for dipping.
Consider these pairings to transform your taco night into a memorable summer celebration!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are perfect for those busy nights when you want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the elote mixture (corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, cotija, lime juice, and zest) up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and creamy. The grilled steak can also be sliced and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just make sure to let it cool completely before storage to preserve its juiciness. When ready to enjoy, warm the steak briefly on the grill or in a pan, toast the tortillas for about 1 minute per side, and then simply assemble your tacos for delicious, hassle-free summer dining!
Expert Tips for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Rest the Steak: Let your grilled ribeyes rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to ensure they stay juicy. This step is crucial for your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.
Corn Perfection: Grill the corn until it has a nice char, as this smoky flavor is essential. Avoid undercooking, which can lead to a less flavorful elote mixture.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lime juice and zest for the elote mixture to enhance the vibrant flavors of your tacos. Bottled juice can dull the taste.
Proper Seasoning: Season both the steak and the corn mixture. Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper to fit your preferences. Balance is key for great Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.
Avoid Overcrowding: When grilling, give your steak and corn enough space on the grill. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less desirable char marks.
Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make these tacos your own by swapping ingredients and adding creative twists to elevate your dish!
Protein Swap: Try grilled chicken or shrimp for a lighter protein option, giving a fresh twist to the classic flavors.
Cheese Alternatives: Use queso fresco instead of cotija for a milder flavor, or go dairy-free with a vegan cheese—it’s all about personal preference!
Flavor Boost: Add diced avocado to the elote mixture for an extra creamy texture. It takes the flavor profile to delightful new heights!
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, mix in some diced jalapeños into the elote or use spicy mayo instead of regular—perfect for flavor fans!
Vegan Delight: Use chickpeas instead of steak and substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with a vegan alternative. Enjoy an incredible plant-based version.
Herb Change-Up: If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley or green onions can bring vibrant freshness without the distinctive taste of cilantro.
Gluten-Free Twist: Swap your tortillas with corn tortillas or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free or low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Grilled Vegetables: For added texture, mix some grilled zucchini or bell peppers into the elote mixture. They infuse lovely summer flavors into each bite.
Mix and match these variations to find your perfect combination! And if you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, don’t miss my recipes for Spicy Grilled Cheese or Herb Butter Steak. Enjoy the journey of flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos immediately to preserve their flavors and textures. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover steak and elote mixture in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while allowing you to enjoy the flavors later.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before assembling with fresh tortillas.
Reheating: For the best taste, reheat the steak in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent it from becoming tough. The elote mixture can be gently warmed or served cold, depending on your preference.
Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best corn for my tacos?
For the freshest flavor, choose corn that is still in the husk. Look for plump kernels with vibrant green husks and a sweet aroma. The ideal corn should be firm and slightly glossy, avoiding any with dark spots or signs of drying out. If fresh corn isn’t available, canned or frozen corn can serve as a great substitute.
How should I store leftover Grilled Steak Elote Tacos?
To keep your leftovers fresh, separate the steak and elote mixture and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should stay good for up to 3 days. I often recommend consuming them within this timeframe to enjoy the best flavors and texture, especially with the elote mixture.
Can I freeze the steak from my tacos?
Absolutely! To freeze the grilled steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. This will preserve its flavor and texture for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and gently reheat using a skillet to maintain tenderness.
What can I do if my elote mixture is too thick?
If your elote mixture turns out too thick, simply add a splash of lime juice or a little bit of milk or yogurt to achieve the desired consistency. This not only thins it out but adds a nice tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your tacos. Mixing well will ensure a consistent texture to drape beautifully over the steak.
Are these tacos suitable for guests with dietary restrictions?
Yes! These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are quite versatile. You can easily modify them for dietary needs, such as swapping out regular tortillas for gluten-free corn tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. For dairy-free preferences, substitute the cotija cheese with crumbled tofu or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just be sure to communicate with your guests about any substitute ingredients, especially if they have allergies.
Grilled Steak Elote Tacos: Your New Favorite Summer Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Prep your ingredients while the grill heats up.
- Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender. Let cool and cut kernels off the cob.
- Combine grilled corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, cotija cheese, lime juice, and lime zest in a mixing bowl. Stir until creamy.
- Season ribeyes with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side until desired doneness. Rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Toast tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute per side. Wrap in a kitchen towel to keep warm.
- Assemble tacos by placing sliced steak on tortillas, followed by the elote mixture.
- Top with sliced jalapeños if desired. Adjust amount based on spice preference.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
