If you’ve ever had elote—Mexican street corn—you already know how irresistible that combination of creamy sauce, sweet corn, and bold spices can be. Now imagine those same flavors in a scoopable, shareable form. That’s exactly what you get with Mexican Street Corn Dip.

This dip is rich, creamy, and bursting with bright, fresh flavor. It takes the classic ingredients of elote—sweet corn, creamy dressing, cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder—and transforms them into a dip that’s guaranteed to be the star of your next party table. It’s perfect for game day, summer cookouts, or anytime you need a quick appetizer that everyone will rave about.

When you place a bowl of this dip on the table, surrounded by crunchy tortilla chips and fresh lime wedges, it doesn’t just taste amazing—it looks festive and inviting, too.

What Is Mexican Street Corn Dip?

Mexican Street Corn Dip is a fun, shareable twist on traditional elote. Instead of eating the corn off the cob, you mix all the ingredients together in one creamy, cheesy dip. The corn is lightly charred or sautéed to bring out its sweetness and add that toasty flavor you get from grilling.

The base is a mix of mayonnaise and sour cream, which gives the dip a luscious, smooth texture. Cotija cheese crumbles add a salty bite, while lime juice brightens everything up. A sprinkle of chili powder and smoked paprika gives the dish its signature smoky, spicy finish.

Topped with extra cheese, fresh cilantro, and a dusting of spice, this dip is as bold in flavor as it is in appearance. Whether you serve it warm or cold, it’s always a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Big flavor in every bite – Creamy, cheesy, tangy, and spicy.

Quick to make – Ready in just 15 minutes.
Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples and easy-to-find items.
Versatile serving – Delicious warm or chilled.

Perfect for parties – Looks festive, tastes incredible, and feeds a crowd.

What Does Mexican Street Corn Dip Taste Like?

This dip is a flavor explosion. The sweet, juicy corn kernels are the star, but they’re coated in a rich dressing that’s creamy from the mayo and sour cream. The cotija cheese adds a salty contrast, while the lime juice cuts through the richness for a pop of acidity.

Chili powder and smoked paprika bring smoky, spicy notes that give it a classic street corn feel. The fresh cilantro on top adds color and freshness, and every bite is balanced between creamy, sweet, spicy, and tangy.

When you dip a tortilla chip into that creamy bowl, you get texture from the corn, bold seasoning from the spices, and a satisfying, cheesy bite. It’s no wonder this dip disappears fast!

Benefits of Making Mexican Street Corn Dip

Effortless crowd-pleaser – Everyone loves it, and it’s easy to double for larger gatherings.
Year-round recipe – Use fresh corn in the summer or frozen/canned in the winter.

Customizable – Adjust the spice, cheese, or creaminess to your taste.
Naturally gluten-free – Just pair with gluten-free chips!
Great for meal prep – Make it ahead and store it until party time.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Dip

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to bring this dip to life:

4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned—drained if using canned)
1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta if you need a substitute)
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese

2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/4 tsp cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (plus more for garnish)

Optional garnish: extra cotija cheese, lime wedges, extra chili powder

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet or frying pan
Mixing bowl

Wooden spoon or spatula
Serving bowl

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

Make this recipe your own with a few simple tweaks:

Spicy version – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Lighter option – Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream.
Extra cheesy – Stir in additional Monterey Jack or even cream cheese for a gooey texture.

Grilled corn for more flavor – Grill fresh corn cobs before cutting off the kernels.
Protein boost – Stir in cooked bacon bits or crumbled chorizo.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Dip

Step 1: Cook the Corn

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels (no oil needed if using canned or frozen corn that’s thawed). Let the corn cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred and golden in spots. This step adds a smoky, roasted flavor just like traditional elote.

Step 2: Mix the Dip Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled cotija cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Combine

Add the warm corn to the creamy mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Spoon the dip into a serving bowl. Garnish with extra cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of chili powder, and lime wedges on the side.

Serve immediately with tortilla chips for scooping, or let it cool and refrigerate if you prefer it chilled.

What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Dip

Tortilla chips – The perfect crunchy scoop.
Fresh vegetables – Carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper slices.

As a taco topping – Spoon it over tacos for extra flavor.
In burritos or quesadillas – Use it as a creamy filling.
With grilled meats – Serve it as a side to grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp.

Tips for Success

Char the corn well – It’s the secret to authentic street corn flavor.
Use fresh lime – It adds a bright, fresh finish that bottled lime can’t match.
Serve it your way – Warm for a melty, cheesy dip or cold for a picnic-friendly version.

Make ahead friendly – Prep it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stove if you prefer it hot.

Freezing: Not recommended—the dairy may separate when thawed.

General Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned corn?

Yes! Just drain it well and pat it dry with paper towels before charring in the skillet.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use dairy-free sour cream, mayo, and cheese. The dip will still be delicious and creamy.

Can I serve this dip cold?

Yes! It’s fantastic both warm and cold. Try it both ways and see which you like better.

How spicy is it?

This dip has mild heat from the chili powder, but you can easily make it spicier or milder based on your preferences.

Conclusion

This Mexican Street Corn Dip is everything you love about elote in an easy, shareable form. It’s creamy, cheesy, zesty, and just the right amount of smoky and spicy. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving something bold and fun, this dip will deliver every time.

Gather your chips, squeeze that lime, and dig into this bowl of flavor-packed goodness

July 16, 2025 by Melissa

Mexican Street Corn Dip