Mexican street corn dip is a crowd-pleaser that brings all the bold flavors of elote in a creamy, cheesy dip. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving a savory snack, this dip will hit the spot.
It’s packed with roasted corn, zesty lime, spicy jalapeño, and a blend of creamy ingredients that create the perfect balance of flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This dip comes together quickly with minimal effort.
- Bold and Flavorful: Inspired by traditional elote, it has a mix of sweet, spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors.
- Great for Any Occasion: Serve it as an appetizer, game-day snack, or side dish for your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and add extra toppings to make it your own.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 cups sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese as a substitute)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)
- 1 small jalapeno, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Add-Ins To Make It Better
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup black beans
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- Hot sauce or sriracha for extra spice
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Dip
Step 1: Roast the Corn
For the best flavor, roasting the corn is key. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the corn. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly charred. If using canned corn, drain and roast in a skillet. For frozen corn, thaw first, then roast.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended. This mixture creates the creamy, flavorful foundation of the dip.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Add the roasted corn, cotija cheese, shredded Mexican cheese, diced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro to the creamy mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Bake (Optional but Recommended)
For a warm, melty dip, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake for 15 minutes until bubbly. This step enhances the cheesy goodness and melds the flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with extra cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, warm pita, or sliced vegetables.
Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Dip
Use Fresh Corn for the Best Flavor
Freshly roasted corn brings out a natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen or canned corn works well, but roasting is still recommended.
Adjust the Spice Level
For a milder dip, remove the seeds from the jalapeño or use less chili powder. For extra heat, add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced serrano peppers.
Make It Ahead
Prepare the dip in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the oven before serving to bring back the melty cheese texture.
Serve with Different Dippers
While tortilla chips are the classic choice, this dip also pairs well with pita chips, celery sticks, crackers, or even as a topping for tacos.
Variations
Mexican Street Corn Dip with Bacon
Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch. Cook and crumble bacon, then mix it in before baking.
Spicy Street Corn Dip
Add an extra chopped jalapeño, a few dashes of hot sauce, or a drizzle of sriracha to give this dip an extra kick.
Street Corn Guacamole Dip
Mix in mashed avocado for a creamy, fresh take on this classic dip.
Vegan Mexican Street Corn Dip
Use dairy-free mayo, vegan sour cream, and dairy-free cheese. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor.
What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Dip
This dip is delicious on its own, but here are some great pairing options:
- Tortilla Chips: The crunch contrasts perfectly with the creamy dip.
- Tacos: Use it as a topping for chicken, beef, or vegetarian tacos.
- Burrito Bowls: Spoon over rice, beans, and grilled protein.
- Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for extra flavor.
- Nachos: Drizzle over nachos for a cheesy, flavorful twist.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Mexican street corn dip is a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer packed with creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors. Whether you serve it warm or cold, it will always be a hit. Try it for your next party, and watch it disappear fast!
