If you love the flavors of Mexican street corn (elote), you’re going to fall in love with this creamy, cheesy, and flavorful **Mexican Street Corn Dip**! This dip takes all the delicious elements of traditional street corn—charred corn, tangy lime, creamy mayo, spicy chili, and crumbled cotija cheese—and transforms them into a rich and irresistible appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a game-day snack, or simply craving a bold and delicious dip, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Served warm or chilled, this dip pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, crunchy veggies, or even as a topping for grilled meats and tacos. The combination of flavors and textures creates the ultimate dip that will have everyone coming back for more. It’s a fantastic alternative to regular salsa or guacamole, offering something unique and packed with zesty goodness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
For the Dip:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese as a substitute)
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
For Garnish:
- More cotija cheese
- Extra chopped cilantro
- Fresh lime wedges
- Dash of Tajín or extra chili powder for a spicy kick
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips
- Pita chips
- Toasted baguette slices
- Vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers)
Instructions
Cooking the Corn:
- Roast the corn: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes until the corn is slightly charred and fragrant.
- Let it cool slightly: Remove from heat and let the corn cool for a couple of minutes.
Making the Dip:
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and hot sauce.
- Add the charred corn, cotija cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and chopped cilantro.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
Serving Options:
- Warm Dip Option: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Chilled Dip Option: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing and cool version.
- Garnish with extra cotija cheese, cilantro, and a dash of Tajín or chili powder.
- Serve with tortilla chips, pita chips, or veggie sticks.
Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Dip
- Use Fresh Corn: If you have access to fresh corn, grilling it before cutting off the kernels will add even more smoky depth to the dip.
- Adjust the Spice: For a milder dip, reduce or omit the chili powder and hot sauce.
- Make it Extra Cheesy: Stir in more shredded cheese or add a layer of melted cheese on top for a richer flavor.
- Double the Batch: This dip is always a hit, so making extra ensures there’s enough for everyone!
Creative Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle powder for an extra kick.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free mayo, vegan cheese, and coconut yogurt.
- Protein-Packed: Stir in shredded chicken or black beans for a heartier dip.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Serve cold or reheat before serving.
Can I freeze it? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
What can I use instead of cotija cheese? Feta or Parmesan are great substitutes.
What should I serve with this dip? This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, pita chips, crusty bread, or even grilled meats.
This **Mexican Street Corn Dip** is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with bold flavors. It’s an irresistible appetizer that’s easy to make, packed with vibrant ingredients, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it warm and bubbly straight from the oven or chilled for a refreshing snack, this dip is a must-try! Make a batch today and bring the taste of elote to your next gathering.
