Looking for the perfect appetizer to spice up your gathering or complement your taco night? This Mexican Street Corn Dip is the ultimate choice! Packed with zesty flavors, creamy textures, and just the right hint of spice, this dip captures the essence of the beloved Mexican street food, “Elote.” Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a flavorful snack, this dip is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Not only does it offer bold flavors, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or fresh veggies for a light yet satisfying treat. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dip in under 30 minutes!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For this creamy and flavorful dip, you’ll need the following:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned; drained if using canned, thawed if frozen)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup cotija cheese (crumbled; substitute feta if unavailable)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped for a spicy kick
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Corn
Start by heating a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter or olive oil, letting it melt before adding the corn kernels. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn develops a golden-brown char. This step enhances the flavor by bringing out the natural sweetness of the corn. Once done, remove from the heat and let it cool slightly. - Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime juice. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well blended. This mixture will provide the rich, tangy, and creamy foundation for the dip. - Incorporate the Corn
Add the charred corn to the creamy base and mix thoroughly. Make sure each kernel is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce. If you’re using jalapeños, stir them in at this stage for a subtle spicy kick. - Add the Finishing Touches
Fold in half of the cotija cheese and cilantro, saving the rest for garnish. Season the dip with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning based on your preferences. - Serve and Garnish
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Top with the remaining cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and fresh cilantro for a vibrant and appealing presentation. If you want to impress your guests, add lime wedges or jalapeño slices on the side for garnish. - Pair and Enjoy
Serve this irresistible dip warm or at room temperature with tortilla chips, pita bread, or fresh vegetables like celery sticks and bell peppers. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors that your guests won’t be able to resist.
Tips for Success
- Char the corn properly: The smoky flavor from the charred corn is key to making this dip authentic and delicious. If you’re in a hurry, using frozen fire-roasted corn is a great shortcut.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the creamy mixture and char the corn in advance. Combine them just before serving to keep the dip fresh and vibrant.
- Spice levels: Adjust the chili powder and jalapeño to your preferred spice level. For a milder dip, omit the jalapeño entirely.
In just under 30 minutes, you can create a dip that will steal the show at any event. With its rich, creamy base, smoky charred corn, and a medley of bold spices, this Mexican Street Corn Dip is a guaranteed hit. The best part? It’s versatile, quick to make, and so satisfying. Perfect for game nights, BBQs, or family dinners, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
So grab your favorite chips, whip up this dip, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right in your kitchen. Make it today and watch as it becomes your new go-to appetizer!