Name: Mexican Street Corn Dip Recipe: Bold and Creamy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 cups corn kernels; 1 tbsp olive oil (if fresh corn); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided); 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (divided); 1 jalapeño (seeded, chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (divided); Optional: Extra cotija (cilantro, lime wedges); Suggested Pairings: Tortilla chips (beer)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Inspired by the classic elote, Mexican Street Corn Dip is a vibrant appetizer perfect for gatherings, game days, or casual entertaining. This creamy, cheesy dip, packed with sweet corn, tangy lime, and smoky spices, delivers a bold, authentic Mexican flavor in every scoop. Presented in a white ceramic baking dish, garnished with crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, this Mexican Street Corn Dip offers a colorful, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any spread. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dip that brings festive flair to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Mexican Street Corn Dip:

4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned; drained if canned)
1 tbsp olive oil (if using fresh corn)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese, divided
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided

For Serving:

Optional: Extra cotija cheese, cilantro, lime wedges
Suggested Accompaniments: Tortilla chips, sliced bell peppers
Suggested Pairings: Cold beer, margaritas
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic baking dish
Suggested Equipment: Large skillet, mixing bowl, 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish, measuring cups/spoons, knife, cutting board, spatula

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Corn: If using fresh corn, cut kernels from cobs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté corn for 5–7 minutes until slightly charred. If using frozen or canned corn, thaw or drain well and sauté briefly for 2–3 minutes to enhance flavor. Set aside to cool slightly.
Mix Dip Base: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, 3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese, 1/4 cup cotija cheese, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and 2 tbsp cilantro. Fold in the corn. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional lime juice, salt, or chili powder to ensure a balanced flavor.
Assemble Dip: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch white ceramic baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese and 1/4 cup cotija cheese over the top.
Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Serve: Let the dip cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with remaining cilantro, extra cotija cheese, and lime wedges. Serve hot in the white ceramic baking dish with tortilla chips, sliced bell peppers, cold beer, or margaritas.

Tips for Better Mexican Street Corn Dip

Char fresh or frozen corn for authentic elote flavor; canned corn works but benefits from a quick sauté.
Taste the dip mixture before baking to balance creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors; adjust with lime juice or spices.
Use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free base.
Use a white ceramic baking dish for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the golden cheese and green cilantro.
Make ahead: Prepare the dip mixture up to 1 day in advance; refrigerate, then bake fresh.
For a smoother texture, blend half the corn before mixing.
Serve warm for the best creamy texture and bold flavors.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic baking dish with cotija and cilantro for a festive, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Mexican Street Corn Dip: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients (e.g., mayonnaise) are certified gluten-free.
Vegan Mexican Street Corn Dip: Replace cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives; use vegan cheeses or nutritional yeast for cheesiness.
Low-Sodium Mexican Street Corn Dip: Reduce salt to 1/4 tsp and use low-sodium cheeses.
Spicy Mexican Street Corn Dip: Add an extra jalapeño or 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Bacon Mexican Street Corn Dip: Mix in 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
Creamy Mexican Street Corn Dip: Increase sour cream to 3/4 cup for extra creaminess.
Roasted Red Pepper Mexican Street Corn Dip: Add 1/4 cup diced roasted red peppers for sweetness.
Cool Mexican Street Corn Dip: Serve chilled instead of baked for a lighter, summery version.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave until warm.
Freeze unbaked dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before baking.
Serve warm for the best creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
Use as an appetizer for parties or a dip for game-day spreads.
Pair with cold beer or margaritas to complement the bold, spicy flavor.
Present in a white ceramic baking dish with vibrant garnishes for an appetizing, festive charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings:

Calories: 280 kcal
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 450mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 7g
Vitamin A: 10% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 15% Daily Value
Calcium: 15% Daily Value
Iron: 4% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~300mg). High in fat; enjoy in moderation. Pair with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Mexican Street Corn Dip recipe offers a bold, creamy appetizer, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a festive classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The smoky corn and cheesy base delight with every scoop. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing appeal.