When smoky grilled steak meets the irresistible charm of Mexican street corn, something magical happens. These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are not your average taco night fare—they’re a bold celebration of flavor, texture, and vibrant ingredients. Juicy, perfectly seasoned steak pairs beautifully with sweet corn, creamy cheese, zesty lime, and a touch of chili, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. It’s the kind of dish that brings the fiesta to your table and makes every bite unforgettable. Ready to savor a new favorite? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are a game-changer for busy nights! They come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for those evenings when time is tight. The combination of tender steak and vibrant corn brings a burst of flavor that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re customizable, so everyone can add their favorite toppings. You’ll love how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Ingredients for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Grilled Steak Elote Tacos a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:
Corn kernels: Fresh or frozen, they add sweetness and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well.
Olive oil: This helps to coat the corn and enhances the grilling process, giving it a lovely char.
Chili powder: A must for that smoky, spicy kick that elevates the corn mixture.
Garlic powder: It adds depth and flavor, making every bite irresistible.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the steak.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Flank steak: This cut is perfect for grilling, as it’s tender and flavorful. You can also use skirt steak if you prefer.
Taco seasoning: A blend of spices that adds a burst of flavor to the steak. You can make your own or use a store-bought mix.
Corn tortillas: These are the perfect vessel for your tacos. Warm them up for the best texture!
Queso fresco: This crumbly cheese adds a creamy, salty touch that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of this herb adds freshness and a pop of color to your tacos.
Avocado: Sliced avocado brings creaminess and richness, making each bite even more satisfying.
Lime wedges: Serve these on the side for an extra squeeze of zesty goodness!
For those who like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the corn mixture. If you want to switch things up, grilled chicken or shrimp can be great alternatives to flank steak. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Grilled Steak Elote Tacos! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheating your grill is crucial for achieving that perfect sear on the steak. Set your grill to medium-high heat and let it warm up for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures that the meat cooks evenly and locks in those juicy flavors. If you hear a satisfying sizzle when the steak hits the grill, you know you’re on the right track!
Step 2: Prepare the Corn Mixture
While the grill is heating, it’s time to prepare the corn mixture. In a bowl, combine the corn kernels, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the corn is well-coated. This mixture is where the magic happens! The spices will infuse the corn with flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the savory steak.
Step 3: Season and Grill the Steak
Next, it’s time to season the flank steak. Generously sprinkle taco seasoning on both sides of the meat. This adds a burst of flavor that complements the corn beautifully. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; aim for an internal temperature of 130°F. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This step is key to keeping the juices inside!
Step 4: Grill the Corn
While the steak is resting, it’s time to grill the corn mixture. Use a grill basket or a piece of aluminum foil to prevent the corn from falling through the grates. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the corn to get slightly charred, which adds a smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible. The aroma will have your family gathering around the grill in no time!
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
Don’t forget about the tortillas! Warm them on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. This step enhances their flavor and makes them pliable for folding. You can also wrap them in foil and place them on the grill to keep them warm while you finish cooking. Trust me, warm tortillas make all the difference!
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Now comes the fun part—assembling your tacos! Start with a warm tortilla, then layer on a few slices of grilled steak. Top it off with the grilled corn mixture, crumbled queso fresco, and sliced avocado. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that burst of color and flavor. Each layer adds a unique taste, creating a taco experience that’s out of this world!
Step 7: Serve with Lime
Finally, serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lime juice elevates the flavors and adds a zesty kick. It’s the finishing touch that brings everything together. Your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are now ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
Always let the steak rest after grilling to keep it juicy.
Use fresh corn when possible for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the lime juice; it brightens the entire dish!
Experiment with toppings like pickled onions or hot sauce for extra flair.
Make extra corn mixture; it’s great as a side dish or salad topping!
Equipment Needed
Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly. If you don’t have one, a grill pan on the stovetop will do.
Grill basket: Ideal for grilling the corn mixture. If you don’t have one, use aluminum foil to create a pouch.
Meat thermometer: Helps ensure your steak is cooked to perfection. A simple knife can also check doneness.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap the flank steak for grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu for a hearty, meat-free alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the corn mixture for an extra layer of heat.
Different Proteins: Try using grilled chicken, shrimp, or even fish for a delightful twist on the classic taco.
Flavorful Sauces: Drizzle with chipotle mayo or avocado crema for a creamy, zesty finish.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your corn tortillas are certified gluten-free, and enjoy a safe, delicious meal!
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair your tacos with a refreshing Mexican street corn salad or a zesty cucumber salad for a light touch.
Drinks: Serve with a chilled margarita or a fruity agua fresca to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Arrange tacos on a colorful platter, garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro for a vibrant look.
FAQs about Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Can I make Grilled Steak Elote Tacos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the corn mixture and grill the steak in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, warm everything up and assemble your tacos. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
What can I substitute for flank steak?
If flank steak isn’t your thing, don’t worry! You can easily swap it for grilled chicken, shrimp, or even fish. Each option brings its own unique flavor to the Grilled Steak Elote Tacos, so feel free to get creative!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just keep the components separate to maintain freshness. Reheat the steak and corn mixture before assembling your tacos again!
Can I make these tacos spicy?
Definitely! If you love a little heat, add diced jalapeños to the corn mixture or drizzle some hot sauce over the assembled tacos. It’s an easy way to kick up the flavor and make your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos even more exciting!
Are Grilled Steak Elote Tacos gluten-free?
Yes, they can be gluten-free! Just ensure that your corn tortillas are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious tacos without worry!
Final Thoughts
Making Grilled Steak Elote Tacos is more than just cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments around the table. The vibrant flavors and textures come together to form a dish that feels special, yet is easy enough for any busy weeknight. I love how this recipe brings my family together, sparking laughter and conversation with every bite. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these tacos are sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let the deliciousness unfold. Trust me, you’ll be savoring every moment!
Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are a delicious fusion of grilled steak and Mexican street corn, served in warm corn tortillas.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound flank steak
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
8 small corn tortillas
1 cup crumbled queso fresco
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 avocado, sliced
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using frozen corn, thaw it and drain any excess water.
In a bowl, combine the corn kernels, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Season the flank steak with taco seasoning on both sides. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
While the steak is resting, grill the corn mixture in a grill basket or on a piece of aluminum foil for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred.
Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of grilled steak on each tortilla, top with the grilled corn mixture, crumbled queso fresco, avocado slices, and chopped cilantro.
Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the corn mixture.
Substitute the flank steak with grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
