These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are a tasty twist on the classic taco! Juicy grilled steak, sweet corn, and zesty toppings come together in a warm tortilla for a delicious meal.
Trust me, the creamy corn sauce gives these tacos their special kick! I love making these for gatherings, and I sometimes have to hide them from my friends. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank or sirloin steak works great for these tacos, providing tender, juicy bites. If you’re looking for alternatives, try skirt steak or even chicken or tofu for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Dan-O’s Seasoning: If you can’t find Dan-O’s, use your favorite steak seasoning blend. For a simple homemade version, mix garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder together. I love adding a bit of paprika for that extra flavor.
Corn: Fresh corn kernels are the way to go, but frozen corn can work in a pinch—just thaw it first. For a twist, use roasted canned corn for a different flavor profile.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor, but you can swap it out for chopped parsley if you’re not a fan of cilantro. Some folks even like to add green onions for a fresh crunch!
Cotija Cheese: Crumbled cotija cheese adds delicious creaminess. If it’s not available, you can use feta or queso fresco instead. Both give a similar salty boost!
How Do You Grill the Perfect Steak for Tacos?
Grilling steak well is key for tasty tacos. Here are a few tips to nail it:
- Start with room temperature steak for even cooking. Let it marinate with seasoning for 30 minutes—this helps flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the grill to high heat. A hot surface sears the meat, locking in juices.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure—about 135°F is ideal.
- Let the steak rest after grilling for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, preventing dryness.
- Slice against the grain for tender bites. This makes a big difference in texture!
How to Make Grilled Steak Elote Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb flank or sirloin steak
- 2 tablespoons Dan-O’s seasoning (or any steak seasoning)
- 8 corn tortillas
For the Elote Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (grilled or roasted)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: crumbled cotija cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. So overall, you’re looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
Start by rubbing the steak all over with the Dan-O’s seasoning. Make sure it’s evenly coated for maximum flavor! Let the steak marinate at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the seasoning to bring out the best taste in the meat.
2. Grill the Steak:
While the steak is marinating, preheat your grill to high heat. Once the grill is hot, place the steak on it and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. After grilling, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. This will help keep it juicy when you slice it!
3. Prepare the Elote Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh corn kernels, mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. This mixture will add a fantastic flavor to your tacos!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the steak is resting, warm the corn tortillas. You can do this on the grill for a nice smokey flavor or in a skillet on the stovetop. Just warm them for a minute or two until they are soft and pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put your tacos together! Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips. Take a warmed tortilla and place a few slices of steak in the center, then add a generous scoop of the elote mixture on top. Ooh la la!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some crumbled cotija cheese on top of your tacos for that extra touch. Serve the tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing. Enjoy your delicious grilled steak elote tacos!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank or sirloin work great, you can also use ribeye or skirt steak for more marbling and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak, and aim for your preferred doneness.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
If you’d like to make this dish vegetarian or vegan, substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or zucchini slices. For the creamy mixture, use vegan mayo and sour cream alternatives, and omit the cotija cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos or fillings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tortillas can become soggy if stored with the fillings, so it’s better to keep them separate until ready to reheat and serve.
What Are Some Good Sides to Serve with These Tacos?
These tacos pair well with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh corn salad. You can also serve some tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole for a fun appetizer!
