Mexican Street Corn Dip

Mexican Street Corn Dip is a delicious and creamy dish inspired by the classic elote, a beloved Mexican street food. This dip brings together the flavors of sweet corn, tangy cheese, zesty lime, and bold spices, making it a perfect appetizer for any gathering. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or even grilled meats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Inspired by Elote – This dip captures the flavors of traditional Mexican street corn in a creamy, shareable dish.
• Creamy and Flavorful – The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese creates a rich and velvety texture, balanced by the sweetness of corn and the warmth of spices.
• Perfect for Sharing – Great for parties, barbecues, and family gatherings, this dip is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable – Adjust the heat level, swap out cheeses, or add different seasonings to suit your taste.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a last-minute appetizer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dip:

• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or grilled)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Extra crumbled cotija cheese
• Lime wedges
• Chili powder

Directions

1. Prepare the Corn

   • If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain it.
   • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the corn for about 5-7 minutes until slightly charred. If using grilled corn, simply remove the kernels.

2. Mix the Ingredients

   • In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir until well mixed.

3. Combine the Corn and Cheese

   • Add the charred corn, cotija cheese, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the bowl. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.

4. Heat the Dip (Optional)

   • For a warm dip, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish and Serve

   • Sprinkle fresh cilantro, extra cotija cheese, and a dash of chili powder on top. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the dip.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Cheese Options – Swap cotija for feta cheese or use cheddar instead of Monterey Jack.
• Lighter Version – Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light mayo instead of regular mayonnaise.
• Smoky Flavor – Add smoked paprika or roast the corn on an open flame before mixing.
• Avocado Addition – Stir in diced avocado for a creamy, fresh twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm the dip in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing – Not recommended, as the dairy-based ingredients may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Heat it before serving if desired.

What’s the best way to char the corn?

You can use a skillet over medium-high heat, a grill, or even broil the corn in the oven for a smoky flavor.

Can I make this dip without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or additional sour cream for a lighter option.

What can I serve with this dip?

Tortilla chips, pita chips, fresh veggies, or even grilled chicken or shrimp pair well with this dip.

How do I make this dip dairy-free?

Use dairy-free mayonnaise and replace the cheeses with a plant-based alternative.

Is this dip best served hot or cold?

It can be enjoyed either way! Warm for a melty texture or cold for a refreshing twist.

Can I add protein to this dip?

Yes, cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded chicken, or chorizo would add a delicious protein boost.

What if I can’t find cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a good substitute, offering a similar salty and crumbly texture.

How do I make this dip more mild?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and chili powder for a milder flavor.

Can I cook this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and heat on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Dip is a flavorful and versatile appetizer that brings the essence of traditional elote to your table. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, with tortilla chips or fresh veggies, this creamy and zesty dip is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and elevate your next gathering with a taste of authentic Mexican flavors!