Save
These Elote Deviled Eggs blend the creamy richness of classic deviled eggs with all the punchy Mexican street corn flavors you crave. I love offering these at summer parties and potlucks beside the grill—the smoky chipotle and fresh cilantro wake up everyone’s taste buds.
Hands down these were a game-changer at my cousin’s birthday last year. I saw guests going back for seconds and asking me for the recipe on the spot
Ingredients
- Large eggs: for the classic creamy base use the freshest eggs for easy peeling
- Mayonnaise: for richness and smooth texture choose full-fat for best flavor
- Sour cream: brings tang tip use full-fat for creamiest results
- Fresh cilantro: adds brightness chop just before using for max freshness
- Lime juice: adds zing use freshly squeezed for best results
- Chili powder: delivers signature elote warmth try to choose a pure blend
- Garlic powder: adds background savoriness use a fine powder not coarse
- Salt and black pepper: finish the flavor layers go for fine sea salt for easy blending
- Crumbled cotija cheese: for salty contrast purchase pre-crumbled for convenience or crumble a block yourself
- Finely diced red onion: brings crunch and vivid color select firm onions
- Finely diced jalapeño: totally optional but amazing kick look for glossy firm peppers
- Chipotle mayo: add smoky depth make your own by blending mayo and chipotle in adobo
- Paprika: beautiful final dusting opt for smoked paprika if you love smokiness
Instructions
- Boil and Cool the Eggs
- Cover eggs with cold water in a saucepan set over medium-high heat. Once the water boils reduce to a gentle simmer and let cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Drain eggs and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water cooling for at least 10 minutes to stop cooking and make peeling easier
- Peel and Halve the Eggs
- Once cooled gently tap eggs on the counter to crack the shells. Peel under a trickle of running water to help remove stubborn bits. Slice eggs lengthwise into even halves and arrange the whites on a serving platter
- Make the Yolk Filling
- Place all yolks in a medium mixing bowl and mash with a fork until as smooth as possible. Add mayonnaise sour cream chopped cilantro lime juice chili powder garlic powder salt and pepper. Stir until the filling is creamy taste and adjust seasoning if needed
- Stuff the Egg Whites
- Use a spoon or piping bag to neatly fill each egg white half with a generous amount of the yolk mixture. Mound the filling for a dramatic look
- Mix and Sprinkle the Toppings
- In a small bowl combine crumbled cotija cheese finely diced red onion and jalapeño if using. Sprinkle this colorful mixture over the stuffed eggs pressing some into the yolk for extra flavor in every bite
- Top with Chipotle Mayo and Paprika
- Using a small spoon drizzle or dot chipotle mayo over each egg. Dust with a light sprinkle of paprika to finish. Transfer to the fridge until ready to serve
Cotija cheese is always my favorite part of these eggs its salty tang transforms the whole bite. My kids love helping sprinkle the colorful toppings which makes this dish a fun family project
Storage Tips
Keep deviled eggs chilled in a tightly covered container in the fridge for up to twenty four hours. If you prep toppings separately they stay fresher and less soggy. Do not freeze as the filling texture does not hold up well
Ingredient Substitutions
No cotija parmesan is a solid backup for a similar salty kick. If you want these dairy free replace mayo and sour cream with your favorite plant based alternatives. Smoked paprika can stand in for chipotle for a less spicy option
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside grilled meats corn on the cob or nachos for a full fiesta plate. These eggs also shine on brunch boards or as a colorful pass around at game nights. Pair with a sparkling lime agua fresca for a cool finish
Cultural Origins
Inspired by Mexican street corn elote these deviled eggs borrow the creamy spicy tangy flavors that make that dish irresistible. Cotija cilantro chipotle and lime bring that unmistakable elote character while upholding classic deviled egg traditions
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap out red onion for fresh summer scallions in the warmer months Add roasted corn kernels for extra authenticity and texture In winter use pickled jalapeño for a mild spicy punch when fresh is hard to find
Success Stories
Friends told me they had never tasted deviled eggs disappear so fast from a party plate. These have become my picnic signature and I always come home with an empty tray
Freezer Meal Conversion
Unfortunately deviled eggs just do not freeze well the whites get watery and the filling loses its texture. For a make ahead approach prep everything but fill the eggs on the serving day
These eggs are always a hit at every gathering. They never last long on the tray!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What makes these eggs taste like elote?
Cotija cheese, chili powder, lime, and cilantro echo the classic flavors of Mexican street corn.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, simply use less jalapeño or chipotle mayo for a milder bite, or add more for extra heat.
- → What can I use instead of cotija cheese?
Grated Parmesan cheese is a good substitute if cotija is not available.
- → Do I have to use red onion?
No, you can swap red onion for scallions or omit entirely if you prefer a subtler flavor.
- → Can these be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and egg whites ahead; assemble just before serving for best texture.
- → How do I pipe the filling neatly?
Use a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner snipped off for smooth, even filling.