Best Mexican Street Corn Dip

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If you’re searching for a creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed appetizer that will disappear in minutes, this Best Mexican Street Corn Dip is it. Inspired by the beloved Mexican street food Elote, this dip combines sweet corn, creamy cheese, zesty lime, and just the right amount of heat into one scoopable, addictive bite.

Served warm or cold, this dip is the life of any party. With roasted corn kernels, rich sour cream, mayonnaise, and bold spices all swirled together, every bite bursts with bright, creamy, spicy-sweet flavor. Whether it’s game day, taco night, or your next potluck, this dip guarantees empty bowls.

Why You’ll Love This Best Mexican Street Corn Dip

• Perfectly balanced between creamy, tangy, and spicy
• Can be made in advance and served warm or chilled
• Versatile for parties, picnics, or as a topping for tacos and nachos
• Easily doubled for a crowd
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly

What Kind of Corn Should I Use for Street Corn Dip?

Fresh, frozen, or canned corn all work wonderfully, but fire-roasted or charred corn adds the most authentic flavor. If you’re using frozen or canned corn, make sure to drain and dry it well, then give it a quick sauté in a skillet for some caramelized, roasted flavor.

Ingredients

• Corn kernels – Bring natural sweetness and texture; grilled or fire-roasted is ideal.
• Mayonnaise – Adds tang and a creamy backbone.
• Sour cream – Balances the richness with slight tang.
• Cream cheese – Thickens the dip and adds a luscious, velvety texture.
• Cotija cheese – Salty and crumbly; the signature cheese of Elote.
• Garlic – Adds savory depth.
• Fresh lime juice – Brightens the entire dip and cuts through richness.
• Jalapeño – For fresh heat; deseed if you prefer mild.
• Chili powder – Brings smoky spice.
• Green onions – For crunch and freshness.
• Cilantro – Optional, but adds a pop of herbal flavor.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasoning.

How To Make the Best Mexican Street Corn Dip

Step 1: Sauté the Corn

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and dry-toast for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn starts to char slightly. This step adds deep roasted flavor.

Step 2: Blend the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and softened cream cheese. Stir until completely smooth and creamy. Add garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 3: Fold in the Flavor

Add the sautéed corn, chopped jalapeño, cotija cheese, and green onions to the creamy base. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Heat and Garnish

Transfer the dip to an oven-safe baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, until warmed through and slightly golden on top. Garnish with chopped cilantro, more cotija, extra chili powder, and fresh jalapeño slices.

Step 5: Serve!

Serve hot with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced veggies. It’s also delicious at room temperature or chilled straight from the fridge.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Dip

This recipe yields about 3 cups, feeding 6 to 8 people as an appetizer. It’s fantastic with tortilla chips, pita wedges, Ritz-style crackers, or served as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or baked potatoes.

How to Store Leftovers

Keep any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dip does not freeze well due to the dairy, so enjoy it fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Dip ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake just before serving for the freshest flavor.

Is this dip spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat from the jalapeño and chili powder. You can leave out the jalapeño or use less chili powder to tone it down.

What cheese can I substitute for cotija?
Feta is the closest substitute with a similar salty crumbly texture. Parmesan also works in a pinch.

Can I use frozen corn?
Absolutely. Thaw and dry it first, then roast it in a pan to replicate the charred effect.

Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just pair with gluten-free chips if needed.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you love this street corn dip, you’ll love these savory dishes next:

• Cowboy Butter Dipping Sauce for a bold buttery kick.
• Creamy Sharp Cheddar Jack Cheese Dip that’s irresistibly rich.
• Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip for sweet and spicy lovers.
• Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball perfect for holidays.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it spicy or keep it mellow? Try it chilled or bubbling hot?

I love hearing your twists on my recipes. Drop your tips or questions below—let’s make snack time even better.

Looking for more easy dip recipes and snack inspiration? Find me sharing new dishes every day over on Life With Livia.

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