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Creamy Street Corn Dip

creamy street corn dip - featured image

This Creamy Street Corn Dip is a warm, cheesy, and tangy appetizer inspired by Mexican street corn (elote). It’s easy to make, perfect for parties, and always a crowd-pleaser with its roasted corn, creamy base, and zesty flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups corn kernels (about 45 medium ears, or 2 cans, or 16 oz frozen corn)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 large lime)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt & black pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon each)
  • Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

  1. Char the corn: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add a drizzle of oil and the corn. Let sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until some kernels brown, then stir and cook another 3-5 minutes until golden and slightly charred. (Thaw and dry frozen corn, or drain and dry canned corn before roasting.)
  2. Prep the creamy base: In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. Add Monterey Jack, cotija, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
  3. Combine corn and creamy mixture: Stir roasted corn into the creamy mixture until well blended. Reserve a few spoonfuls of corn for topping if desired.
  4. Transfer to baking dish: Spoon mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle with extra cheese and reserved corn.
  5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted, edges are bubbling, and top is lightly browned. For a golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  6. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Serve warm with tortilla chips, sliced veggies, or crackers.

Notes

Roasting the corn is key for flavor. Use fresh, frozen, or canned corn, but always dry before roasting. Adjust spice level by adding more or less jalapeño. For dairy-free or vegan, substitute with plant-based alternatives. Grate your own cheese for best melting. Serve hot for best texture; leftovers can be reheated but may thicken. Don’t skip the lime and cilantro garnish for freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: street corn dip, Mexican appetizer, party dip, creamy corn dip, elote dip, easy appetizer, game day snack, cheesy dip, crowd-pleaser, gluten-free