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Best Grilled Corn Elote Skewers for Perfect Tailgate Parties

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These best grilled corn elote skewers for tailgate parties are designed to be eaten standing up, with one hand holding a drink, while you talk trash about the opposing team. They’re messy in the best way, and they always disappear first.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 ears fresh corn on the cob
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2–3 fresh limes (zest and juice)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12–18 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Soak the corn in cold water for 15-20 minutes if husks are on (optional but recommended).
  2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F / 200-230°C).
  3. First grill: Place corn with husks on directly on grill grates. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until husks are charred and kernels are steamed.
  4. Shuck the corn: Let cool for 2-3 minutes, then remove husks and silk. Use a dry paper towel to rub off any remaining silk.
  5. Second grill: Return shucked corn to the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning frequently, until kernels are charred and blistered.
  6. Prepare the sauce: Mix mayonnaise and crema (or sour cream) in a small bowl. Add lime zest and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.
  7. Insert skewers: Once corn is cool enough to handle but still warm, push two wooden skewers into each ear, about 2 inches apart.
  8. Slather and season: Brush the mayo-crema mixture generously over the hot corn. Immediately sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, pressing gently. Dust with chili powder and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and a final pinch of salt if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t skip soaking the corn if using husks-on method—it prevents burning. Apply sauce while corn is still hot for best adhesion. Use two skewers per ear for stability. For extra flavor, toast the chili powder in a dry skillet for 30 seconds before using. Prep ahead by shucking corn and making sauce the night before.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, elote, tailgate, Mexican street corn, summer, barbecue, easy, crowd-pleaser

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/best-grilled-corn-elote-skewers-for-perfect-tailgate-parties/