The sizzling sound of steak hitting the grill is one of my favorite summer sounds—it’s like an invitation to gather around and feast. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos that will elevate your cookout game. These tacos are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of smoky ribeye paired beautifully with vibrant elote flavors. The sweet grilled corn, creamy toppings, and zesty lime create a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress. Plus, they’re customizable! Whether you prefer spicy jalapeños for an extra kick or a non-dairy twist, these tacos easily adapt to your taste. Perfect for those long summer evenings, this dish is a showstopper that you can whip up in no time. Are you ready to dive in and make your taco night unforgettable?
Why are these tacos a must-try?
Juicy Flavor: The tender ribeye steals the show, infusing each bite with a rich, smoky charm that’s hard to resist.
Customizable Options: Easily tailor the recipe to suit your palate—add jalapeños for a spicy kick or switch up the tortillas based on your preferences.
Perfect Summer Dish: These tacos are ideal for outdoor gatherings, bringing people together around the grill while embracing the essence of summer cooking.
Quick Assembly: With a few straightforward steps, dinner is served in no time. Plus, prepare the elote mixture ahead of time for stress-free hosting!
Crowd-Pleaser: Delight family and friends with this vibrant, flavorful taco dish that will quickly become a favorite, just like my Griddled Cheesesteak Wow!
Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Ingredients
• Get ready to gather the flavors!
For the Steak
- Ribeye Steaks – The star of your tacos with rich flavor and tenderness; consider sirloin or flank steak as substitutes if desired.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing out the steak’s natural goodness; don’t skimp on seasoning!
For the Elote Mixture
- Corn – Fresh corn adds sweetness and texture; use frozen if fresh isn’t available.
- Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base for the elote; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter option if preferred.
- Sour Cream – Brings a lovely tartness; crème fraiche offers a tangier twist if you want something different.
- Chopped Cilantro – A fresh herb that brightens up the flavors; omit it for a non-herb variation.
- Cotija Cheese – This salty crumbly cheese enhances your elote; feta works well as a substitute when necessary.
- Juice and Zest of Lime – Vital for providing acidity; don’t forget this key ingredient for balanced flavors!
For the Tacos
- Tortillas (Flour or Corn) – These hold it all together; choose based on your dietary needs or taste preferences for the perfect taco experience.
- Jalapeño (Optional) – Use it for a spicy finish that will satisfy heat lovers; feel free to skip it if you prefer a milder flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (204°C). This ensures that both the corn and ribeye steaks will sear beautifully, developing that irresistible charred flavor. Allow the grill to heat for about 10-15 minutes, giving it enough time to reach the perfect cooking temperature.
Step 2: Grill the Corn
Once the grill is ready, husk your fresh corn and place it directly on the grates. Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning it every few minutes until it’s nicely charred and golden-brown on all sides. After grilling, remove the corn and set it aside to cool. When it’s cool enough to handle, slice off the kernels to use in the elote mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Elote Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly cut corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Squeeze in the juice and add the zest of one lime for a burst of flavor. Mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly coated. This elote mixture will serve as a creamy topping for your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper. Place the steaks on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. For a medium-rare finish, look for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C). Once done, transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for at least 5 minutes to retain their juices.
Step 5: Toast the Tortillas
While the steaks are resting, toss the tortillas onto the grill for about 1 minute on each side until they’re warm and lightly charred. This quick grilling not only enhances their flavor but also gives them a nice bite that complements the taco filling. Use either flour or corn tortillas based on your preference.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Now it’s time to build your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos! Start with a warm tortilla and layer it with thinly sliced, rested ribeye steak. Generously spoon the elote mixture over the steak to create a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the elote pairs perfectly with the juicy steak.
Step 7: Add Jalapeños (Optional)
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some thinly sliced jalapeños to your tacos. This step is entirely optional, but it adds a flavorful kick that elevates your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your tacos immediately, accompanied by lime wedges to squeeze on top for extra zest. Enjoy these vibrant Grilled Steak Elote Tacos with family and friends, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates the joys of summer grilling!
Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Variations
Feel free to reshape these tacos to fit your cravings and dietary needs with these fun options!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños for a fiery boost; the heat perfectly complements the creamy elote.
For those with a passion for spice, trying different heat levels can elevate your dining adventure. -
Protein Switch: Swap ribeye for chicken or shrimp for a lighter option; still packed with flavors!
A simple swap can change the entire personality of the dish without losing the vibrant taste. -
Dairy-Free Delight: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangy elote mix.
This keeps the creamy texture while offering a healthy twist for those avoiding dairy. -
Tortilla Choice: Experiment with corn or flour tortillas based on your preference or dietary restrictions.
Each option brings its unique texture and taste, letting you personalize each bite for the perfect taco experience. -
Cheese Variations: Substitute cotija with feta or queso fresco depending on what you have on hand.
Each cheese type lends its distinct flavor, adding a delightful twist to your elote mixture. -
Add Avocado: Incorporate sliced or mashed avocado for an added layer of creaminess and healthy fats.
The rich creaminess of avocado beautifully complements the fresh elote flavors. -
Hearty Addition: Include black beans or grilled veggies in your tacos for extra texture and nutrition.
This addition makes your meal more filling and vibrant, perfect for those nights when you’re extra hungry! -
Extra Zest: Drizzle with cilantro-lime dressing for a fresh and zesty finish.
A little drizzle can go a long way in enhancing flavors and making your tacos more colorful, just like my Griddled Cheesesteak Wow!
What to Serve with Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Create the perfect summer feast that balances flavors and brings joy to your dining table.
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Fresh Guacamole: This creamy dip adds a refreshing and zesty complement to the tacos, enhancing their vibrant flavors. Scoop it generously onto your plate for a delightful contrast.
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Chilled Mexican Corn Salad: A mix of corn, bell peppers, and lime creates a bright side dish that mirrors the elote in the tacos, making for a cohesive meal that bursts with freshness.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside for a satisfying crunch. Pair them with homemade salsa to elevate your snacking as guests await their taco feast!
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Spicy Black Bean Soup: A warm, hearty soup that pairs wonderfully with the smokiness of the tacos while providing an excellent balance of flavors and textures.
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Watermelon Mint Salad: Its sweet, refreshing taste paired with cooling mint offers a palate cleanser, making each taco bite even more enjoyable.
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Classic Margarita: This bright, tangy drink pairs perfectly with the richness of your tacos, enhancing the entire grilling experience and keeping the atmosphere lively!
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Sangria: A light, fruity sangria offers a vibrant and refreshing drink option that perfectly complements the grilled flavors while adding a fun twist to your summer gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Fridge: Store assembled tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain texture, keep the elote mixture separate and assemble just before eating.
Freezer: For best results, freeze the elote mixture in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and grill fresh tortillas for serving.
Reheating: Reheat the elote mixture in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a skillet before assembling your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.
Leftovers: Any leftover grilled steak can be sliced and stored in the fridge for 3 days. Enjoy it cold in salads or warm it for a quick taco fix!
Expert Tips for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
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Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality ribeye steaks for the best flavor and tenderness. Avoid cheaper cuts, which can be tougher and less flavorful.
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Rest the Steak: Allow the grilled steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, keeping your tacos moist and flavorful.
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Grill Corn Carefully: Rotate the corn frequently while grilling to prevent burning. Keep an eye on it; charred pieces add flavor, but burning can ruin your elote.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to swap out the cotija cheese for feta, or even use avocado instead of sour cream! These substitutions offer delicious twists to your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.
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Warming Tortillas: To ensure your tortillas remain flexible, toast them just until warm. Over-toasting can lead to crispy tortillas that tear easily.
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Prep Ahead: Make the elote mixture a few hours in advance and refrigerate. This saves time during meal prep and lets the flavors meld beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the elote mixture (corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, cotija, lime juice, and zest) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, marinate the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper a few hours ahead of grilling for enhanced flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, grill the corn and steaks as directed, then assemble the tacos right before serving for the best texture. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress without the last-minute rush!
Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for the elote mixture?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and sweetness, I highly recommend using fresh corn. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works well too, but make sure to cook it thoroughly to enhance its sweetness.
How long can I store leftover tacos in the fridge?
You can store assembled Grilled Steak Elote Tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, to keep the tortillas from becoming soggy, it’s best to keep the elote mixture separate and assemble the tacos just before you’re ready to enjoy them!
Can I freeze the elote mixture? How should I do it?
Yes, you can freeze the elote mixture! To do this, place the mixture in an airtight container and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the mixture overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently in a saucepan over low heat and prepare fresh tortillas for a delicious taco meal!
What if my grilled steak turns out tough?
If your steak ends up being tough, it might be due to overcooking. To avoid this, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; for medium-rare, aim for 135°F (57°C) and allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing against the grain. Proper resting helps retain the juices for a tender bite.
Are these tacos suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Very! If you have dairy allergies, you can easily modify the Grilled Steak Elote Tacos. Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with non-dairy options, such as cashew cream or a dairy-free yogurt. Also, consider skipping the cotija cheese or replacing it with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
What other toppings can I add to customize my tacos?
The more, the merrier! Aside from jalapeños, you can add avocado slices for creaminess, or sprinkle fresh diced tomatoes and sliced radishes for an extra crunch. Chopped green onions or a drizzle of spicy salsa can add even more flavor, making your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos uniquely yours!
Grilled Steak Elote Tacos for a Sizzling Summer Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (204°C). Allow to heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Husk the fresh corn and grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning every few minutes until nicely charred. Once cooled, slice off the kernels for the elote mixture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, and cotija cheese. Add lime juice and zest, mix well.
- Season the ribeye steaks with salt and pepper, grill for 4-5 minutes each side until desired doneness. Let the steaks rest for at least 5 minutes.
- Grill tortillas for about 1 minute on each side until warm and lightly charred.
- Assemble the tacos with sliced ribeye and elote mixture on warm tortillas.
- Add jalapeños if desired and serve with lime wedges.
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