## How to Make Grilled Steak Elote Tacos: Step-by-Step

### Step 1: Prepare the Steak Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, onion powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika if desired. Coat the steak evenly and marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours for maximum flavor.

### Step 2: Grill the Steak

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 3-5 minutes per side depending on thickness and preferred doneness (medium-rare is ideal for tacos). Remove and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.

### Step 3: Prepare the Elote Mixture

Grill or roast fresh corn on the cob until slightly charred. Let cool, then cut the kernels off. In a bowl, mix the corn with mayonnaise, Mexican crema, crumbled cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning.

### Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

Warm the tortillas on the grill or a skillet until soft and pliable.

### Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Place sliced steak on the tortilla, top generously with the elote mixture, and garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, pickled onions, or sliced radishes. Serve immediately.

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## Tips for the Perfect Grilled Steak Elote Tacos

* **Choosing the right steak:** Skirt or flank steak offer great flavor and texture but remember to slice thinly against the grain.
* **Don’t skip resting:** Letting the steak rest allows juices to redistribute.
* **Char the corn:** Grilling corn adds smoky depth that’s essential for authentic elote flavor.
* **Balance the toppings:** The creamy, spicy elote topping should balance the savory steak without overpowering it.
* **Warm tortillas:** Soft tortillas prevent breaking and add authenticity.

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## Variations and Creative Twists

* **Chicken or shrimp elote tacos:** Swap steak for grilled chicken or shrimp for a lighter variation.
* **Vegan version:** Use grilled mushrooms or tofu and dairy-free crema.
* **Add avocado or guacamole:** Creamy avocado complements the spice.
* **Add a smoky salsa:** Chipotle salsa adds extra depth.
* **Use queso fresco instead of cotija:** Slightly milder cheese option.

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## Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Grilled steak elote tacos pair wonderfully with:

* **Mexican street-style rice or cilantro-lime rice.**
* **Refried or black beans.**
* **Fresh, tangy salsa verde or pico de gallo.**
* **Cold Mexican beer, margaritas, or aguas frescas (like hibiscus or tamarind).**

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## Health and Nutrition

While indulgent, these tacos can be balanced by using lean cuts of steak and fresh, natural ingredients. The protein from the steak combined with fiber-rich corn and herbs makes a satisfying meal.

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## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q:** Can I make elote topping ahead of time?
**A:** Yes! Prepare the elote mixture up to a day in advance and store in the fridge. Add fresh cilantro just before serving.

**Q:** How to keep steak tender?
**A:** Marinate with acidic ingredients like lime juice and avoid overcooking. Rest before slicing.

**Q:** Can I use frozen corn?
**A:** Fresh corn is best for flavor and texture, but frozen corn can be grilled or sautéed as a substitute.

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## Final Thoughts

Grilled steak elote tacos are a celebration of Mexican flavors and culinary techniques. The harmony of smoky grilled steak and creamy, spicy elote creates a delicious contrast that will delight your taste buds and impress any crowd.

With some basic ingredients, a grill, and a little time, you can bring the vibrant energy of Mexican street food right to your kitchen or backyard. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a fiesta of flavors with these irresistible grilled steak elote tacos.

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Would you like a printable recipe card or a shopping list to go with this? Or perhaps tips for hosting a taco night? Let me know!