With the sizzling sound of grill marks and a waft of smoky goodness, it’s time to elevate your taco night! These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are packed with juicy ribeye steak and a creamy corn salsa that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Perfect for a summer cookout, these delicious tacos offer a delectable combination of spicy and sweet—customizable to your heat preference with the addition of jalapeños. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they’re also quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Are you ready to impress your friends and family with this festive twist on a classic? Dive into the full recipe below!

Why Will You Love Grilled Steak Tacos?

Vibrant Flavors: The combination of juicy ribeye steak and creamy elote salsa creates a taste explosion that brings summer to your plate.

Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these tacos can be on your table in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.

Customizable Heat: Add jalapeños for a spicy kick, or leave them out for a milder flavor—these tacos cater to everyone’s preferences!

Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, these tacos are sure to delight your guests, making you the star of the cookout! Don’t miss out on other exciting dishes like our Bbq Chicken Grilled Cheese to elevate your menu!

Authentic Taste: Infused with traditional elote flavors, every bite transports you to a vibrant street market in Mexico—truly a culinary adventure.

Easy Cleanup: With minimal dishes required, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of complicated cleanup.

Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Ingredients

For the Steak

Ribeye Steaks – The star ingredient, known for its juiciness and flavor; sirloin is a great budget-friendly substitute.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the steak’s natural flavor; adjust to your taste preference.

For the Elote Salsa

Ears of Corn – Provides sweetness and texture; if fresh corn isn’t available, opt for frozen.
Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the elote; try Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
Sour Cream – Infuses tanginess; you can substitute with crème fraîche or extra yogurt if desired.
Chopped Cilantro – Offers fresh herbal notes; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
Cotija Cheese – Delivers a crunchy texture and saltiness; feta cheese makes a suitable substitute.
Lime Juice – Brings brightness and acidity; lemon juice can replace it for a different citrus flavor.
Lime Zest (optional) – Adds extra zing; consider skipping it for simplicity.

For the Tacos

Small Tortillas (flour or corn) – Serves as the taco base; gluten-free options are available if needed.
Jalapeño (optional) – Introduces a spicy kick; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.

Feel free to customize these Grilled Steak Elote Tacos to suit your taste, whether you’re looking to spice things up or keep it simple!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

Step 1: Preheat the Grill and Prepare the Corn
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375°F (190°C). While the grill warms up, husk the ears of corn, ensuring they are clean and free of silk. You want the corn to be nicely exposed for that beautiful char. This initial preparation sets the groundwork for your flavorful Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.

Step 2: Grill the Corn
Once your grill is hot, place the corn directly on the grate and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Look for a charred appearance, which indicates the corn is beautifully roasted. Once done, remove the corn from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes until it’s safe to handle. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the corn, making it a delicious addition to the tacos.

Step 3: Cut and Mix the Elote Ingredients
Once the corn has cooled, carefully cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife, taking care not to leave any behind. In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped cilantro, cotija cheese, lime juice, and zest if using. Stir everything gently until well mixed, ensuring a creamy, textured elote salsa that will elevate your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.

Step 4: Season and Grill the Steaks
While you mix the elote, season both sides of your ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper. Place the steaks on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time for your desired doneness. Look for a nice sear and feel free to use a meat thermometer; 135°F (57°C) is ideal for medium-rare. Once grilled to perfection, let the steaks rest for 5 minutes to help retain their juices.

Step 5: Toast the Tortillas
During the steak resting period, take some small tortillas and place them directly on the grill for about 1 minute on each side. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for a warm, slightly charred tortilla that’s flexible enough to hold the taco filling without breaking. This step enhances flavor and texture, making your tacos truly enjoyable.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Now it’s time to build your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos! Thinly slice the rested ribeye against the grain and lay a few pieces on each warm tortilla. Top it generously with the creamy elote salsa you prepared earlier. The combination of juicy steak and creamy corn will create an irresistible bite that brings your tacos to life.

Step 7: Add Jalapeños (Optional)
For a little extra kick, slice fresh jalapeños and sprinkle them on top of each taco. This optional step will add spice and amplify the flavor profile of your tacos, catering to those who enjoy a bit more heat. Customize each taco to your taste for the perfect final touch.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Present your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos on a platter and, if desired, garnish with lime wedges for an extra burst of tang. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will captivate your family and guests! Enjoy these flavorful tacos right away for the best experience, making memories around the table.

What to Serve with Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

Get ready to complement your vibrant tacos with delicious sides and drinks that will enhance your summer feast.

Creamy Guacamole: This avocado dip adds a rich, buttery texture that beautifully contrasts with the smoky flavors of the tacos. Serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy pairing.
Zesty Mexican Street Corn Salad: Bright and fresh, this corn salad echoes the elote in the tacos while adding a burst of color and crunch. It’s the perfect side to enhance that festive feel!
Spicy Black Beans: A dish that brings a hearty element, these seasoned black beans offer a creamy texture and a bit of spice, balancing out the taco’s flavors nicely.
Chilled Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy, this salsa provides a refreshing contrast. The pineapple’s juicy sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory steak and creamy elote, making each bite pop!
Crispy Tortilla Chips: A classic crowd-pleaser, these chips are perfect for scooping up the elote salsa, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
Homemade Margaritas: Refreshing and vibrant, these cocktails are a perfect match for the flavors in your tacos. Choose fruity variations like mango or strawberry to elevate the experience!
Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad topped with a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich tacos, balancing the meal with a great mix of flavors and textures.

Don’t forget to enjoy your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos with these delightful companions to create a memorable meal!

Storage Tips for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

Fridge: Store assembled tacos in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. However, for best taste and texture, keep all components separate until ready to enjoy.

Freezer: While cooked steak can be frozen for up to 3 months, it’s best to freeze steak and elote mixture separately. Wrap tightly to maintain freshness and flavor.

Reheating: Gently reheat steak in the microwave or on the stovetop. Toast tortillas briefly on a hot skillet for that fresh-off-the-grill feel when serving.

Serving Fresh: Enjoy the Grilled Steak Elote Tacos fresh for optimal flavor and texture, as the vibrant ingredients truly shine when newly prepared.

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the elote salsa up to 3 days in advance; simply mix the grilled corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, cotija cheese, lime juice, and zest in an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors meld beautifully, but be sure to store it in the fridge to keep it fresh! As for the ribeye steaks, season them 24 hours ahead and store in the refrigerator; this allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. When you’re ready to serve, grill the steaks and toast the tortillas, then assemble the tacos for a delicious, quick meal that feels home-cooked without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

Rest the Steak: Allow the grilled ribeye steaks to rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This ensures maximum juiciness and tenderness in your tacos.
Corn Grilling: Keep an eye on the corn while grilling. Turning it occasionally prevents burning and enhances that beautiful charred flavor essential for the elote.
Tortilla Toast: Don’t rush the tortilla toasting process. Properly toasting them enhances flavor and prevents them from becoming soggy when filled with the elote and steak.
Season Generously: Season your steak well with salt and pepper. Avoid skimping on seasoning, as it significantly enhances the overall taste of the Grilled Steak Elote Tacos.
Customize Your Heat: Mix jalapeños into the elote for added kick or serve them on the side, allowing everyone to adjust spiciness according to their taste!

Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Grilled Steak Elote Tacos—there’s a world of flavors waiting for you!

Grass-Fed Beef: Swap ribeye for grass-fed beef for a leaner, healthier option that still packs a flavorful punch.
Avocado Addition: Dice up some fresh avocado and mix it into the elote for a creamier texture and a dose of healthy fat.
Diced Tomatoes: Brighten up the elote salsa by adding diced tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
Queso Fresco: Use queso fresco instead of cotija for a softer texture and a milder, creamier taste that complements the steak beautifully.
Grilled Veggies: Introduce a vegetarian twist by adding grilled bell peppers and onions to the tacos, providing vibrant colors and delightful crunch!
Lime Crema: For an extra tangy touch, mix sour cream with lime juice and zest to drizzle over the tacos—perfecting that zesty finish!
Spicy Elote: If you love heat, mix chopped jalapeños directly into the elote sauce for an even spicier experience that will tantalize your taste buds!
Mango Salsa: Create a tropical twist by topping your tacos with mango salsa for a delightful contrast to the rich steak flavors.

Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like our Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad or Peruvian Grilled Chicken. Each of these dishes offers a unique flavor profile that can elevate your next meal. Enjoy exploring these variations!

Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best corn for my elote?
Absolutely! When selecting corn, look for ears that are plump and green with no dark spots. Fresh corn should feel firm and have tight, green husks. Avoid corn with yellowing husks or dark patches, which can indicate age. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn can be a great alternative!

How should I store leftovers of my tacos?
Very good question! It’s best to store the components of your Grilled Steak Elote Tacos separately. You can keep the assembled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but the flavor is best when enjoyed fresh. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked steak for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze the elote mixture?
Absolutely! The elote mixture freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave for a quick defrost.

What if my steak is tough after grilling?
Not to worry! If your steak ends up being tough, it can happen for several reasons, such as not letting it rest after grilling or overcooking it. To avoid this, always allow your grilled steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing—this allows the juices to redistribute. Additionally, ensure you slice the steak against the grain, which helps enhance tenderness for your tacos.

Are these tacos suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This recipe is very customizable. For a dairy-free option, you can use plant-based mayonnaise or yogurt for the elote and skip the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative. If gluten is a concern, opt for gluten-free tortillas. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens to ensure everyone can enjoy these delicious tacos!

What’s the best way to reheat leftover steak?
Absolutely! To keep your steak tender while reheating, place it in the microwave on low heat for short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth to help retain moisture. After reheating, toast the tortillas briefly in a hot skillet for that fresh-off-the-grill taste!