This Elote seasoning is great for making quick and easy elote (Mexican street corn) at home, but it's also a perfect spice blend for grilled corn, vegetables, popcorn, and so much more!
Elote Seasoning Recipe
We're making homemade Elote Seasoning in the Chili Pepper Madness kitchen today, my friends! I think you will enjoy this intriguing spice blend!
Trader Joe’s sells a brand called “Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend” that is popular. This is a homemade version, perfect for making elote or esquites (Mexican Street Corn Salad), but also so much more.
What is Elote Seasoning?
Elote seasoning is a flavorful seasoning blend inspired by the Mexican street food known as "elote," which is grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayonnaise, lime juice, spices and crumbly white cheese.
This spice blend captures these vibrant flavors in a convenient spice mix, which has many uses.
I personally enjoy shaking it over a bag of freshly popped popcorn and even using it as a general seasoning blend. It's a bit unique with a combination of flavors you will love.
Let's talk about how to make elote seasoning, shall we?
Elote Seasoning Ingredients
The full ingredients list with measurements is listed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Chili Powder. Use an American blend or your favorite brand.
- Paprika. Use smoked or sweet paprika.
- Chipotle Powder.
- Cumin.
- Dried Cilantro.
- Parmesan Cheese. Use dehydrated grated parmesan cheese for longer keeping.
- Dried Lime Zest. Or use citric acid powder, or a product like True Lime.
- Sea Salt. To taste.
- Sugar. Optional, for a touch of sweetness.
How to Make Elote Seasoning - the Recipe Method
Mix all of the ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.
Store in a sealed container or spice jar in a cool, dark place.
Boom! Done! Your elote seasoning is ready to serve. It's time to make elote! Enjoy!
Recipe Tips & Notes
- If using to make Mexican Street Corn (elote), you can omit the dried parmesan cheese and instead add freshly grated parmesan or cotija cheese at the time of cooking, if preferred.
- It is important to use dried parmesan for longer keeping, as fresh parmesan cheese will not last long.
- Use cayenne pepper for an extra blast of spicy heat. Add 1-2 teaspoons along with the paprika.
Uses for Elote Seasoning
Elote seasoning isn’t just for corn on the cob. It’s great for adding flavor to main and side dishes like grilled or roasted vegetables, grilled meats, French fries or potatoes, freshly popped popcorn, and even swirled into dips or salad dressings.
This is a very versatile seasoning blend.
Storage
Store elote seasoning in a sealed container, like a spice jar, and keep in a cool, dark place. It will last many months or longer, especially in the refrigerator.
That's it, my friends. I hope you enjoy this elote seasoning recipe. Let me know if you make it. I'd love to hear how it turned out for you, and if you decided to spice it up!
Cookbook Recommendation
If you enjoy spicy cooking, I hope you'll check out my cookbook! 75 easy recipes with big, bold flavor.
- The Spicy Food Lovers' Cookbook, by Mike Hultquist (affiliate link, my friends!)
Amazon Affiliate links, my friends! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Try Some of My Other Popular Recipes
Got any questions? Ask away! I’m happy to help. If you enjoy this recipe, I hope you’ll leave a comment with some STARS. Also, please share it on social media. Don’t forget to tag us at #ChiliPepperMadness. I’ll be sure to share! Thanks! — Mike H.
Elote Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chili powder use your favorite blend
- 1 tablespoon paprika use smoked or sweet
- 1 teaspoon chipotle powder can substitute chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
- 1 teaspoon grated parmesan cheese use dehydrated parmesan for longer keeping
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar optional, for a touch of sweet
- 1 teaspoon dried lime zest or use citric acid powder or a product like True Lime
- Salt to taste I use ½ teaspoon
Instructions
- Mix all of the ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.
- Store in a sealed container or spice jar in a cool, dark place.
Notes
- Corn flour is a brand addition, though I have omitted it here. Feel free to add 1 teaspoon.
- You can use fresh parmesan cheese or cotija cheese, but only if using right away. Use dehydrated parmesan cheese, which you can find in containers in grocery stores, for longer keeping. Or, simply omit and add the cheese when making elote.
Nutrition Information
Paul:-) says
Hi Mike &Patty,
I must say that I’ve never had Parmesan in a spice blend before so it will be interesting to try. I may leave it out of the actual blend so that I can use fresh Parmesan in the recipes.
I’m not really a fan of sweetcorn but I have ideas already for various other uses.
You haven’t let me down yet, even if I have to tone down the heat sometimes.
Thanks again for your advice & recipes.
Mike Hultquist says
I hope you enjoy it, Paul! This is a spice blend with growing popularity in the U.S.
Nazar says
Hi it is great recipe
I always like your recipes using them
A lot
Thank you
Mike Hultquist says
Thanks so much, Nazar! Glad you're enjoying the recipes! Cheers.
Ramya says
Cant wait to make this soon for me i never had elote seasoning before perfect for snacks love your recipes as always brightens up my day everyday after work
Mike Hultquist says
Enjoy, Ramya.