These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are a tasty mix of juicy steak and sweet corn. Wrapped in soft tortillas, they’re perfect for any meal or gathering!
Who can resist a taco filled with grilled goodness? I love adding a dollop of creamy sauce on top—it’s like a party in every bite! 🌮🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are great for grilling and have lots of flavor. If you can’t find them, you could use sirloin or even grilled chicken for a lighter version. Personally, I love the juiciness of skirt steak!
Dan-O’s Seasoning: This blend brings a really nice flavor. If you don’t have it, any good steak seasoning will work, or you can simply use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. I often mix my own for a fresh taste.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn is best in season, but frozen or canned corn work just fine. If using canned, drain it well. I sometimes like to grill the corn briefly for a smoky flavor.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds a nice salty kick. If you can’t find it, feta cheese is a good substitute, though it’s a bit creamier. I prefer crumbling the cheese right before serving for maximum freshness!
How Do I Get the Steak Just Right on the Grill?
Grilling steak to your preferred doneness can be tricky, but here’s a simple guide:
- **Setup:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; this ensures a nice sear.
- **Timing:** Grill for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare. For more doneness, keep it on a bit longer, but watch closely!
- **Resting:** After grilling, let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Trust me, it makes a difference.
- **Slicing:** When slicing, always cut against the grain. This makes your steak more tender. You’ll notice how much easier it is to chew!
How to Make Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound flank steak or skirt steak
- 2 tablespoons Dan-O’s seasoning (or any steak seasoning)
- 4 large tortillas (flour or corn)
For the Corn Mix:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. Overall, you can have these delicious tacos ready in about 30-40 minutes! Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by rubbing the flank or skirt steak with Dan-O’s seasoning. Make sure to coat it evenly on both sides. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. This waiting time helps the steak absorb all those yummy flavors!
2. Grill the Steak:
While the steak is resting, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place your steak on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side if you like it medium-rare. If you prefer it more cooked, keep grilling it until it reaches your desired doneness. When it’s done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
3. Prepare the Corn Mix:
In a medium bowl, combine the corn kernels, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chopped cilantro, cotija cheese, and chili powder (if you’re using it). Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste, then mix everything together until it’s well combined. This corn mix adds a great flavor and texture to the tacos!
4. Toast the Tortillas:
While the steak rests, lightly toast the tortillas on the grill. Flip them after about 30 seconds on each side, or until they’re warm and have a little char. This makes them even more delicious!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Take the sliced steak and place it into the warmed tortillas. Don’t be shy—top them generously with that tasty corn mixture.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These tacos are best enjoyed right away! You can garnish them with extra cilantro or lime wedges for an added zing. Dig in and savor the flavors!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! If you can’t find flank or skirt steak, you can use sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken or pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts can vary in thickness and tenderness.
What Type of Corn Can I Use?
You can use fresh corn, canned corn, or frozen corn for this recipe. If using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. You can quickly thaw it in warm water or let it sit in the fridge overnight!
Can I Make the Corn Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the corn mixture in advance! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before using it to ensure all the flavors are well combined.
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have any leftover tacos, it’s best to store the components separately. Keep the steak, corn mixture, and tortillas in separate airtight containers in the fridge. They should be consumed within 3 days for the best flavor and freshness. Reheat the steak gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
