Elote Dip with Tortilla Chips (Print)

Tangy, creamy charred corn blend with cotija cheese and spices, served with crispy chips.

# What you'll need:

→ For the Elote Dip

01 - 4 cups corn kernels, fresh, frozen, or canned, drained if necessary
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
04 - 1/4 cup sour cream
05 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1 jalapeño, finely diced with seeds removed for milder heat
10 - 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled, plus additional for garnish
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped, plus additional for garnish
12 - 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
13 - Zest and juice of 1 lime
14 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ For Serving

15 - Tortilla chips for dipping
16 - Lime wedges

# Directions:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and corn kernels. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until corn is lightly charred and golden. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, jalapeño, cotija cheese, cilantro, red onion, lime zest, and lime juice. Mix thoroughly until well integrated.
03 - Add the charred corn to the bowl and stir until all components are evenly distributed. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
04 - Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Top with additional cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder.
05 - Present warm or at room temperature alongside tortilla chips and lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal hands-on effort
  • Bursting with authentic Mexican street corn flavors
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free friendly for diverse gatherings
  • The charred corn adds a smoky depth that elevates the entire dip
  • Perfect for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers
  • Can be made ahead and served warm or at room temperature
02 -
  • Make the dip up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate; bring to room temperature 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor
  • Reserve some charred corn kernels before mixing to sprinkle on top for visual appeal and texture contrast
  • Taste and adjust seasoning just before serving, as flavors meld and intensify over time
  • If the dip seems too thick, thin it with a tablespoon of lime juice or milk
  • Use a cast-iron skillet for charring the corn to achieve the best caramelization
  • Double the recipe for large gatherings—this dip disappears fast
Go back