This Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip is a creamy and cheesy treat that’s loaded with sweet corn and zesty flavors. Perfect for parties or just a snack at home!
I love how simple it is to whip up this dip. Just mix everything together, and you’re ready to munch. Pair it with tortilla chips—your taste buds will thank you! 🌽❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn gives the best flavor, but frozen corn works just as well and is convenient. If fresh isn’t available, opt for canned corn (drain it well before use).
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. It still retains that tanginess!
Cotija Cheese: Cotija is a crumbly cheese that brings a salty punch. If you can’t find it, feta is a good alternative. For a vegan version, try a plant-based cheese.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dip. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can work too, but it’ll slightly change the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Mix Up the Flavors?
Mixing ingredients in this dip is straightforward, but achieving the right balance is key. Here’s how:
- First, ensure that the corn is well-drained if using canned or frozen. Excess moisture can make the dip runny.
- Gently mix the corn with mayonnaise and sour cream until evenly coated.
- When adding spices and cheese, fold them in rather than stirring aggressively. This keeps the dip light and fluffy.
- Always taste your dip before serving! Adjust flavors with more lime juice or spices to your liking.
Chilling the dip for a bit allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so don’t skip that step if you have the time!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Tortilla chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be served right away or chilled for 30 minutes for the flavors to blend even better. It’s super quick and perfect for gatherings or as a tasty snack at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, boil or grill the cobs until the kernels are tender, then carefully cut the kernels off the cobs. If you’re using frozen corn, just thaw it out and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture.
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice. Use a spatula to mix everything together until it looks creamy and evenly mixed.
3. Add Seasoning and Cheese:
Next, sprinkle in the crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well so all the flavors get distributed throughout the dip.
4. Incorporate Fresh Cilantro:
Carefully fold in the chopped cilantro. This gives the dip a vibrant color and a fresh taste. Be gentle so the dip stays light and fluffy!
5. Taste Test:
Always give your dip a taste! If you feel it needs a little more kick, go ahead and add extra lime juice or chili powder based on your liking.
6. Serve:
Transfer your beautifully mixed dip to a serving bowl. Top with extra cotija cheese and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a nice presentation.
7. Enjoy!
You can serve this dip right away, or if you have time, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This lets all the yummy flavors combine even better! Enjoy it with crunchy tortilla chips, or use it as a delicious topping for tacos or grilled meats!
This luscious dip perfectly captures the flavors of Mexican street corn (elote) in an easy-to-eat form—perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well to remove excess salt and liquid. This will help keep your dip from becoming too watery.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Dip?
The leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again. Keep in mind that the flavors may intensify as it sits, which can be delicious!
Can I Make This Dip Vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives. For the cheese, use a vegan cheese crumbles or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
What Should I Serve with This Dip?
This dip is best served with tortilla chips, but you can also pair it with sliced veggies or use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, or grilled meats. Get creative!
