Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Elote Dip brings the bold, creamy, and cheesy flavors of Mexican street corn into a shareable, scoopable appetizer. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, this dip combines roasted corn, cotija cheese, and a blend of tangy, smoky spices. It’s quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and totally addictive.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)mayonnaise sour creamcotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)lime juicechili powdergarlic powderpaprikacilantro (optional)jalapeño (optional)butter or olive oil for sautéingsalt and pepper
directions
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add butter or olive oil and sauté the corn until lightly charred, about 5–7 minutes.
Transfer the roasted corn to a large bowl.
Stir in mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
Add crumbled cotija cheese and mix well.
Fold in finely chopped jalapeño and cilantro if using.
Serve warm or at room temperature with tortilla chips, or refrigerate and serve chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 7 minutesTotal time: 15–20 minutes
Variations
Use grilled corn on the cob for extra smoky flavor.
Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Mix in black beans or diced red onion for added texture.
Top with extra cotija and chili powder before serving for a vibrant finish.
storage/reheating
Store Easy Elote Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm in a skillet until heated through.Serve cold if preferred—it tastes great both ways.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes great made ahead and chilled. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Can I use canned corn?
Absolutely. Drain and pat dry before sautéing for the best texture.
Is cotija cheese necessary?
Cotija adds authentic flavor, but feta or Parmesan can work in a pinch.
How spicy is this dip?
It’s mild by default. Adjust the heat by adding jalapeño, chili powder, or hot sauce.
Can I make this dip dairy-free?
Use plant-based alternatives for sour cream, mayo, and cheese for a dairy-free version.
Can this be served cold?
Yes, it’s delicious served either cold or warm.
What chips go best with Elote Dip?
Tortilla chips are classic, but pita chips or fresh veggies also pair well.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely—it scales easily for larger groups.
Does it work as a topping?
Yes! Use it on tacos, nachos, or even grilled meats.
Conclusion
Easy Elote Dip takes the irresistible flavors of Mexican street corn and turns them into a versatile, crave-worthy dip. Whether served warm or cold, it’s creamy, tangy, and spiced just right—ideal for any occasion where good food and good company come together.
PrintEasy Elote Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful Mexican-inspired dip made with sweet corn, cheese, and spices—perfect for parties or as a side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (if sautéing corn)
Instructions
- If using fresh or frozen corn, sauté the corn in butter over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until slightly charred. If using canned corn, drain and sauté briefly.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in the cooked corn, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro until well combined.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm or chilled with tortilla chips.
Notes
- Can be served warm or cold.
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Great as a taco topping or side dish too.