These Grilled Steak Elote Tacos are a tasty treat! Imagine juicy steak, mixed with sweet corn, and wrapped in warm tortillas. Add a sprinkle of cheese and you’re set!
Every bite is like a fiesta in your mouth! I love how easy they are to throw together for lunch or dinner, and they’re always a hit with friends. Who can resist tacos? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts are flavorful and great for grilling, but if you’re looking for something leaner, consider sirloin or chicken. I often go with skirt steak for its tenderness.
Dan-O’s Seasoning: This seasoning brings a unique flavor, but any taco seasoning will do. If you’re watching sodium intake, create your own mix with cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder!
Corn: Fresh corn is ideal for sweetness, but frozen or canned corn works fine too. If you can grill the corn beforehand, it adds extra flavor—just char it for a few minutes.
Cheese: Feta or cotija both add a salty creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan feta or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Mayonnaise: This brings creaminess, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, plain yogurt or avocado can be used instead.
How Do I Grill Steak Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling steak can be tricky, but with the right techniques, it becomes simpler! The key is timing and temperature. Here’s a step to follow:
- Preheat your grill on high for even cooking. A hot grill gives nice sear marks and locks in juices.
- Season and marinate the steak for at least 15 minutes. This helps enhance flavor.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure—135°F is your target.
- Rest the steak after grilling. This step helps the juices redistribute, leading to a juicy bite when sliced.
How to Make Grilled Steak Elote Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak
- 2 tbsp Dan-O’s Seasoning (or any favorite taco seasoning)
- 8 corn tortillas
For the Elote Topping:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or grilled)
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for grilling, plus some extra time for marinating the steak. Overall, plan on about 35-45 minutes to enjoy these delicious tacos from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to high heat. This is important to get that nice, charred flavor on your steak. Lightly oil the grill grates with some olive oil to prevent the meat from sticking.
2. Season the Steak:
Next, season the flank or skirt steak on both sides with Dan-O’s Seasoning or your favorite taco seasoning. Let the steak marinate for about 15-30 minutes to absorb all those tasty flavors. This step is key for juicy and flavorful steak!
3. Prepare the Elote Topping:
While the steak is marinating, let’s whip up the elote topping. In a medium bowl, combine the corn kernels, diced red onion, mayonnaise, feta or cotija cheese, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well and set it aside for later.
4. Grill the Steak:
Once the steak has marinated, place it on the hot grill. Grill it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness—medium-rare is recommended for the best flavor. You can adjust the cooking time based on how well-done you like your steak.
5. Let the Steak Rest:
After grilling, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender. Meanwhile, it’s a good time to prepare for the tacos!
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While your steak is resting, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they are soft and pliable. This will give them a nice flavor and texture.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain and place the slices inside the warm tortillas. Top them generously with the elote mixture you prepared earlier.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately, and don’t forget to add some lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Steak Elote Tacos with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! You can substitute the flank or skirt steak with sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken for a different flavor. Just ensure that the cut you choose is suitable for grilling, and adjust the cooking time based on thickness.
Can I Make the Elote Topping in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the elote topping ahead of time! Just mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully—just give it a good stir before serving!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftover tacos, keep the steak and elote topping separate from the tortillas to prevent them from getting soggy. Place them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat the steak gently on the stove and warm the tortillas briefly on the grill or in a skillet before assembling again.
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn?
Of course! If you prefer flour tortillas for your tacos, feel free to use them. Just warm them slightly on the grill or in a skillet to make them more pliable and enhance their flavor. Enjoy your tacos your way!