Juicy steak slices, smoky charred corn, tangy chili-lime sauce, and a warm tortilla that brings it all together. Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are everything you need to level up your taco night!

This easy recipe combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn (elote) with the heartiness of perfectly grilled steak. It’s quick to make, packed with bold flavor, and guaranteed to impress your friends, family, or even just yourself. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Grilled Elote Steak Tacos

Here’s what you’ll need to create these flavor-packed tacos. Look for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results:

For the Steak and Tacos

• 1 lb flank or skirt steak
• Salt, pepper, and chili powder (to season)
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup charred corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Chili-Lime Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayo
• 1 tbsp sour cream
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Substitutions

• Flank or skirt steak: Swap for sirloin or ribeye for a more luxurious texture.
• Cotija cheese: Substitute with feta cheese for a similarly salty touch.
• Corn tortillas: Prefer flour tortillas? They work just as well in this recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chili-Lime Sauce

Whisk the mayo, sour cream, chili powder, lime juice, and salt in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.

2. Grill the Steak

• Season your steak generously with salt, pepper, and chili powder.
• Heat your grill (or grill pan) to high and cook the steak for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
• Remove steak from the heat, cover loosely with foil, and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.

3. Char the Corn

• If using fresh corn, grill or sauté until lightly charred. For frozen corn, use a dry skillet over high heat, stirring occasionally. The slight smokiness is key to that elote flavor!

4. Toast the Tortillas

• Heat tortillas individually over an open flame or in a dry pan until they are warm, pliable, and have light char marks.

5. Assemble the Tacos

• Lay a few slices of steak in each tortilla.
• Top with charred corn, sliced jalapeños, crumbled cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.
• Drizzle generously with the chili-lime sauce.

6. Serve

Plate your tacos with extra lime wedges on the side. They’re best enjoyed fresh and warm!

Health Benefits of These Tacos

Grilled Elote Steak Tacos are not just delicious but also pack some nutritional benefits!

• High Protein: The steak provides protein to keep you full and energized.
• Healthy Fats: The chili-lime sauce offers healthy fats from olive oil and mayo.
• Vitamin Boost: The corn and fresh cilantro add important vitamins like Vitamin A and C.
• Low-Calorie Option: At only ~330 calories per taco, these pack a lot of flavor without the guilt.

Serving Suggestions

These steak tacos are versatile and pair beautifully with a range of sides and drinks. Here are ideas to complete your meal:

• Sides: Serve with Mexican rice, a fresh avocado salad, or a side of refried beans.
• Drinks: Pair with margaritas, a michelada, or iced hibiscus tea.
• Garnish: Sprinkle extra cotija, drizzle more chili-lime sauce, or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Creative Recipe Variations

Keep things exciting by experimenting with these fun twists:

• Vegetarian Twist: Replace the steak with smoky grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted cauliflower.
• Spicy Chipotle: Add chopped chipotle peppers into your chili-lime sauce for an extra smoky heat.
• Cheesy Elote: Toss extra shredded cheese (try Oaxaca or cheddar) onto the charred corn while still warm.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Tacos

• Rest the Steak: Always give your steak time to rest after grilling to lock in those juices.
• Char with Care: Don’t overchar the corn or tortillas; a light smokiness is all you need.
• Prep Ahead: Save time by making the chili-lime sauce and slicing the toppings beforehand.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storing

• Steak: Store sliced steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Toppings: Keep corn, jalapeños, and other toppings in separate sealed containers to maintain freshness.

Reheating

• Warm steak slices gently in a skillet over low heat.
• Heat tortillas directly on a pan, flame, or microwave until pliable.
• Assemble freshly for the best texture and flavor.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking Steak: Aim for medium-rare to medium doneness to keep the steak juicy.
• Overstuffing Tortillas: Keep the filling manageable to prevent the tacos from falling apart.
• Skipping the Rest: Not resting your steak will result in dry meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken or fish instead of steak?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or flaky white fish (like cod or tilapia) work wonderfully with this recipe.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

While the steak and sauce can be prepped ahead, tacos are best assembled just before serving for freshness.

What’s the best way to char corn without a grill?

A cast-iron skillet over high heat works great! Sauté corn in a dry skillet, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred.

Can I freeze cooked steak?

Yes, you can freeze cooked steak in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.

Try This Recipe Today

Grilled Elote Steak Tacos combine bold flavors with simple, fresh ingredients that anyone can make. Whether it’s a casual taco Tuesday or a weekend party, these tacos are sure to impress your taste buds and your guests.