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–+ servings
The elote cut into wheels on a white plate.
Kate Ramos

The Best Elote Loco

This wild, crave-worthy twist on Mexican street corn is one of my favorite foods and, trust me, this elote loco recipe is just as fun to make as it is to eat.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Mexican Side Dishes
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 3
Ingredients Method Nutrition Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Method
 

  1. Light the grill for direct grilling to medium-high heat.
  2. In a food processor or with a rolling pin, finely crush the 1/2 cup Cheetos and 1/2 cup chicharrones until they resemble coarse bread crumbs. Toss with 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of the cayenne. Set aside.
  3. Stir together the 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons crumbled Cotija, 3 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne.
  4. Rub corn with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
  5. Spread the sauce all over the sides of each ear of corn. Sprinkle generously with Chicha-Cheeto crumble. Top with remaining Cotija cheese and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing.


Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 3kcalCarbohydrates: 1gSodium: 399mg

Video

Notes

  1. Cut into wheels: Cut each ear into wheels with a sharp knife and continue with the recipe. These smaller pieces are great for parties or picnics!
  2. Making Elote Loco in the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Brush corn with olive oil, season, and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through for even charring. Finish with sauce and toppings.
  3. Sauce Consistency: If you like a thicker, creamier sauce use sour cream instead of mayonnaise. For a thinner, more drizzle-able sauce, use Mexican crema.
  4. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne or arbol chili powder to your heat preference. You can also add a little hot sauce for an extra kick.

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