steak elote tacos

10-Min Steak Elote Tacos | Flavorful & Easy

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Summer evenings are perfect for something special. Steak elote tacos will make your backyard grilling unforgettable. They mix the smoky taste of grilled steak with the bright flavors of elote corn.

Picture a warm tortilla filled with juicy steak and creamy corn. Each bite is a burst of flavor. Steak elote wrap are more than food; they’re a celebration of grilling and Mexican traditions.

With only 40 minutes of prep and cooking, you’ll make a dish that looks like it’s from a pro kitchen. Whether it’s a weekend barbecue or a weeknight dinner, these tacos will make your meal unforgettable.

What Makes Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Special

Explore the amazing world of mexican cuisine with these tasty food truck tacos. They bring street food magic to your grill. Steak elote tacos mix traditional flavors with modern creativity.

These tacos are more than a recipe. They turn classic Mexican street food into a special summer meal. The mix of grilled steak and elote creates a unique flavor.

Fusion of Mexican Street Food Traditions

Mexican street food is known for its bold, vibrant tastes. Steak elote wrap bring this to life with:

  • Perfectly grilled, marinated steak
  • Charred corn with traditional elote seasonings
  • Zesty lime and cilantro garnishes
  • Authentic Mexican spice blends

Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures

What makes these tacos special is their mix of textures. Tender, juicy steak and crispy grilled corn make every bite a delight. The creamy elote sauce adds a rich touch.

Ideal for Summer Entertaining

“These tacos are more than a meal – they’re a celebration of summer and mexican cuisine!” – Culinary Expert

With just 1 hour 30 minutes of prep, you can wow guests with these tacos. Each serving has 21g of protein and exciting flavors. It’s a dish that will have everyone wanting more.

Essential Ingredients for Steak Elote Tacos

Making delicious steak elote tacos begins with picking the right ingredients. Your carne asada will be the main attraction. You need to choose high-quality parts that blend well to create a memorable taste.

For the perfect steak, you’ll need:

  • 2 lbs of flank or skirt steak
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 fresh lime
  • Spice blend:
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 1½ teaspoons salt
    • 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

The grilled corn is also key. You’ll need:

  • 8 ears of fresh corn on the cob
  • 1 cup crumbled queso fresco
  • 1 bunch green onions
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro

For the best elote sauce, prepare:

  • 1/2 cup Mexican crema
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1½ teaspoons sugar
  • Spice mix:
    • 3/4 teaspoon chili powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Don’t forget the supporting cast: small flour tortillas, sliced avocados, and optional jalapeños. They will make your steak elote wrap taste like they’re from a restaurant.

Pro tip: Marinate your steak for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to maximize flavor penetration.

Choosing and Preparing the Perfect Cut of Steak

Creating delicious grilled steak tacos starts with the right meat. Your choice of steak can make or break the taco experience. Professional chefs suggest specific cuts for the best flavor and tenderness.

Best Steak Cuts for Tacos

Here are the top steak options for grilled steak tacos:

  • Ribeye: Rich marbling for exceptional flavor
  • Flap steak: Lean and flavorful
  • Skirt steak: Intense beef taste
  • New York strip: Tender and well-textured

Marination Techniques

Marinating turns an ordinary steak into a taco masterpiece. For the best results, marinate your steak for at least 30 minutes. A unique marinade can make your grilled steak wrap unforgettable.

Pro tip: Longer marination times develop deeper, more complex flavors.

Seasoning Tips

Proper seasoning is key for mouth-watering grilled steak tacos. Use a blend of:

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder

Coat your steak with these seasonings before grilling. This ensures a flavor-packed taco experience. Remember to let the steak rest after cooking to keep those delicious juices in.

Mastering the Elote Corn Mixture

Creating the perfect elotes mexicanos starts with expertly grilled corn. This corn captures the authentic Mexican street food flavors. The secret to a great corn mixture is balancing creamy, tangy, and spicy ingredients.

To prepare your elotes mexicanos, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 6 ears of fresh corn
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • Juice from 2 medium limes
  • Tajin seasoning to taste

Grilling the corn is key for deep, smoky flavors. Cook the corn for 6-8 minutes, turning it every couple of minutes. This ensures even charring and beautiful golden-brown kernels.

After grilling, remove the kernels and mix them with the creamy sauce. The sauce is made of mayonnaise, Mexican crema, and cotija cheese. Add fresh cilantro, lime juice, and Tajin for that classic street food zing.

Pro tip: Adjust the ingredients to your liking. Some like more heat with extra Tajin or chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Steak

Mastering the art of grilling steak is key to making delicious grilled steak tacos. The right technique can turn a simple meal into a memorable experience. Learning about heat, timing, and preparation will make your tacos stand out.

Temperature control is your secret to success when making grilled steak tacos. It’s all about getting a perfect sear and keeping the steak juicy inside.

Optimal Grill Temperature

Shoot for a grill temperature of 450°F to 500°F. This high heat creates a tasty crust on your steak. It’s vital for flavorful grilled steak tacos.

  • Preheat grill for 10-15 minutes
  • Clean and oil grill grates
  • Use direct high heat for searing

Achieving Perfect Doneness

For medium-rare grilled steak tacos, cook your steak for 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:

  1. Rare: 125°F
  2. Medium-rare: 130-135°F
  3. Medium: 140-145°F

Resting and Slicing

After grilling, let your steak rest for 10 minutes. This lets juices spread evenly, making the meat tender and flavorful. Always slice against the grain for extra tenderness.

Pro tip: Let your steak reach room temperature before grilling for more even cooking.

Creating the Ultimate Elote Sauce

Cilantro Lime Crema Sauce

Take your steak elote wrap to the next level with a delicious cilantro lime crema. This sauce adds amazing flavor to every bite. It makes your grilled dish unforgettable.

To make the perfect cilantro lime crema, you’ll need a few ingredients:

  • ½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

The secret to this sauce is its balanced flavors. Begin by mixing the creamy base with lime juice. The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous taste that balances the richness of the steak.

If you like a little heat, adjust the hot sauce to your liking. Pro tip: Let the sauce sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend perfectly.

A great cilantro lime crema can elevate your taco game from ordinary to extraordinary!

Drizzle this creamy sauce over your grilled steak elote tacos. The tangy, fresh flavors will enhance the charred meat and sweet corn beautifully.

Tortilla Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right tortilla can make your steak elote tacos amazing. Whether you’re aiming for a taco truck feel or a fancy dish, picking the right tortilla is key.

When making tortillas for your steak elote tacos, you have two main choices: corn and flour. Each type adds its own special touch to your dish.

Corn vs Flour Tortillas

  • Corn Tortillas: Authentic street taco style, perfect for traditional taco truck flavor
  • Flour Tortillas: Softer, more flexible, great for guests who prefer a milder texture
  • Street tacos usually use two smaller corn tortillas for better structure

Warming Methods

How you warm your tortillas can really improve your tacos. A pro tip from a taco truck is to slightly char them for more flavor.

  1. Grill method: 1 minute per side until lightly charred
  2. Skillet technique: Medium-high heat, 30-45 seconds per side
  3. Wrap in foil to keep warm during serving

Pro tip: Always warm tortillas right before serving. This keeps them at the best temperature and texture, just like your favorite taco truck.

Building Your Steak Elote Tacos

Making the perfect steak elote tacos is an art. It’s all about mixing great flavors and textures. Begin by warming your tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute on each side. This makes them flexible and slightly charred, adding more flavor to your tacos.

Here’s how to put your tacos together:

  • Layer a warm tortilla with 2-3 slices of grilled ribeye steak
  • Add a generous spoonful of creamy elote mixture
  • Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese

Want to add something special? Try these optional toppings:

  • Sliced avocado for creaminess
  • Thinly sliced jalapeños for heat
  • Extra cotija cheese for tang
  • Lime zest for bright citrus notes

The secret to a great taco is balancing flavors and textures. Each bite should mix tender steak, creamy elote, and crisp tortilla. Feel free to try new things and make these tacos your own!

Pro tip: Serve immediately while the steak is warm and the tortillas are fresh off the grill.

Essential Toppings and Garnishes

Adding the right toppings and garnishes can make your Mexican food amazing. The perfect mix can turn your steak elote wrap into a flavor explosion. It will make every bite a delight.

Traditional Mexican Garnishes

Classic taco toppings add real flavor and texture. Start with these must-haves:

  • Crumbled cotija cheese
  • Fresh chopped cilantro
  • Diced white onions
  • Lime wedges for squeezing

Mexican Cuisine Taco Toppings

Modern Flavor Enhancements

Upgrade your steak elote tacos with these modern touches:

  • Sliced creamy avocado
  • Tangy pickled red onions
  • Spicy jalapeño slices
  • Crisp radish matchsticks
  • Zesty Mexican crema

For a memorable taco night, set up a toppings bar. It’s fun and lets everyone make their own perfect taco. It’s a great way to enjoy Mexican cuisine together.

Sauce Variations and Accompaniments

Make your steak elote tacos even better with tasty sauces. A great cilantro lime crema can change your taco game. It adds a fresh, exciting flavor to every bite.

Try these amazing sauce options for your grilled steak elote wrap :

  • Classic cilantro lime crema with sour cream and fresh herbs
  • Spicy chipotle sauce for heat lovers
  • Salsa verde with tomatillos and green chilies
  • Árbol chili sauce for intense spice enthusiasts

For a top-notch cilantro lime crema, mix lime juice, sour cream, and cilantro. Blend until it’s smooth. This zesty sauce balances the rich steak flavors perfectly.

Want to get creative? Add different herbs and spices to your crema. A little cumin or smoked paprika can give your sauce a unique twist. It makes each taco a new adventure.

Pro tip: Always prepare your sauces fresh for maximum flavor and texture!

Each sauce has its own special touch. You can make your steak elote tacos just how you like them. Whether you like them mild and creamy or bold and spicy, there’s a sauce for you.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

Preparing steak elote wrap ahead of time makes your Mexican street food experience easier. These tasty tacos are great for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers. With the right preparation, you can enjoy top-notch tacos at home.

Storing each part separately helps keep flavors and textures perfect. Here are some key make-ahead tips for your steak elote tacos:

  • Marinate the steak up to 4 hours before cooking
  • Prepare elote corn mixture 1 day in advance
  • Store grilled steak in an airtight container for up to 6 days
  • Keep corn mixture refrigerated for 2-3 days

When storing your Mexican street food parts, follow these tips:

  1. Refrigerate steak in its own sealed container
  2. Keep elote corn mixture in a separate container
  3. Store tortillas in their original packaging
  4. Separate wet and dry ingredients to prevent soggy tacos

For the best taste, assemble your tacos just before serving. Reheat the steak gently in a skillet or microwave. Warm the tortillas and mix your fresh ingredients. This way, you get crisp tortillas and fresh flavors, just like authentic Mexican street food.

Pro tip: Freeze grilled steak for up to 6 months, thawing in the refrigerator overnight before use.

Conclusion

Steak elote tacos are a delightful mix of Mexican flavors that turn a simple meal into a special experience. By learning to grill the perfect 2 lbs of flank steak and making a fresh elote mix, your cooking will shine. These tacos are not just food; they’re a celebration of taste, skill, and tradition.

Creating steak elote tacos is more than just following a recipe. It’s about mastering grilling techniques, picking the right ingredients, and mixing textures and tastes. With time, you’ll impress everyone with your tacos, making any event unforgettable.

Steak elote tacos are perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to weeknight dinners. Try new toppings, change the spice, and make it your own. The beauty of these tacos is their flexibility, allowing endless creativity.

Great cooking comes from passion, practice, and enjoying the journey. Your steak elote tacos show off your cooking talent and love for Mexican street food. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and start making something amazing.

FAQ

What makes steak elote tacos different from traditional tacos?

Steak elote tacos mix Mexican street food with grilled steak and elote. They offer a mix of flavors and textures. It’s like having food truck tacos at home.

What is the best cut of steak for these tacos?

Flap steak and ribeye are great for steak elote tacos. They taste good and are tender. Choose a cut that’s thin and takes marinades well.

Can I make steak elote tacos if I don’t have a grill?

Yes! You can use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan instead. The key is to sear the steak and char the corn well.

What type of tortillas work best for these tacos?

Corn and flour tortillas both work. Corn tortillas are traditional and taste authentic. Flour tortillas are softer. Warm and char them for better taste.

How can I make these tacos spicier?

Add jalapeños to the elote, use spicy chili powder, or top with hot sauce. Adjust the spice to your liking.

Can I prepare components of the tacos in advance?

Yes! Marinate the steak, make the elote mixture, and sauce ahead. Store them in the fridge. Assemble the tacos just before serving.

What are some recommended toppings for steak elote tacos?

Try cotija cheese, cilantro, onions, and lime. Add cilantro lime crema, pickled jalapeños, or avocado for extra flavor.

How do I ensure the steak stays tender and juicy?

Marinate the steak, don’t overcook, and let it rest. Use a meat thermometer and slice against the grain for tenderness.

Are steak elote tacos gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free with corn tortillas and gluten-free ingredients. Check the marinade and sauce for gluten.

What should I serve alongside these tacos?

Serve with Mexican rice, beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo. Enjoy with margaritas, Mexican beer, or horchata.