This Baked Elote Dip combines the rich flavors of creamy mayonnaise, tangy sour cream, and the savory goodness of cotija and parmesan cheeses. With a light touch of chili powder and smoked paprika, every bite is a delightful burst of smoky, spicy goodness.
Perfect for parties or cozy gatherings, this dish will be a crowd pleaser that everyone will keep coming back to. Serve it with tortilla chips, crispy vegetables, or even as a topping for tacos and grilled meats. This easy and flavorful dip is sure to be your new favorite party dish!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 cups frozen corn kernels (thawed)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
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1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thawed corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the corn is lightly golden.
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In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, parmesan cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
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Add the cooked corn to the bowl and mix well.
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Transfer the mixture into a baking dish (9×9 inch or similar size) and spread it evenly.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
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Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 6-8 servings
Baked Elote Dip: A Flavorful Twist on Mexican Street Corn
When it comes to dipping, few things are as satisfying as a creamy, cheesy dip. One dip that has recently gained popularity is the Baked Elote Dip, inspired by the beloved Mexican street food known as “Elote.” This dip brings all the savory, smoky, and tangy flavors of street corn to a creamy, cheesy dip that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying as a snack.
The Origin of Elote: A Taste of Mexico
Before diving into the details of this baked dip, it’s essential to understand its roots. Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, is a popular snack in Mexico, often sold by street vendors. It typically consists of grilled corn on the cob, slathered with a creamy mayonnaise based dressing, and sprinkled with cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of fresh lime. The combination of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy flavors is irresistible, making it a favorite among many.
While the traditional Elote is served on the cob, this Baked Elote Dip takes those same familiar flavors and transforms them into an easy-to-share dish. No need to worry about corn kernels falling off the cob or messy hands; this dip brings all the goodness of Elote in a convenient and delicious dip form.
Why Baked Elote Dip is Perfect for Any Occasion
The Baked Elote Dip has quickly become a go-to recipe for anyone looking to impress their guests or indulge in a comfort food treat. Whether you’re hosting a casual get together, preparing food for a game day, or even having a movie night at home, this dip is sure to be a hit. Its warm, gooey texture and bold flavors make it the perfect addition to any party spread.
What makes the dip even better is its simplicity. Unlike many other dips that require a lot of preparation or special ingredients, the Baked Elote Dip is made with common kitchen staples. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, and its creamy, cheesy texture will keep everyone coming back for more. The best part is that it requires minimal effort but delivers big flavor, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Customizing Your Baked Elote Dip
One of the great things about this dip is how easy it is to customize based on your taste preferences. The dip already contains the key ingredients that make Elote so tasty creamy mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, and a dash of chili powder but there are a few ways you can put your own spin on the recipe.
For a spicier version of the dip, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture. This will give the dip a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the other ingredients. If you prefer a milder dip, feel free to reduce the chili powder or leave out any spicy ingredients altogether.
Additionally, you can switch up the type of cheese used in the dip. Cotija cheese is the traditional choice for Elote, but you can also use other cheeses like feta or even cheddar, depending on your preferences. Cotija has a crumbly texture and a salty, tangy flavor that works perfectly in this dip, but feel free to experiment with different cheeses to achieve the flavor profile you love.
If you’re looking to make the dip a bit healthier, you can also substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt, which still provides a creamy texture but with added protein. Using a reduced-fat mayonnaise can also cut down on the calories while keeping the dip just as delicious.
How to Serve Baked Elote Dip
The beauty of the Baked Elote Dip lies in its versatility. It can be served in a variety of ways, making it the perfect dish to enjoy with different types of dippers. The classic choice is tortilla chips, as their crispy texture pairs well with the creamy dip. However, you can also serve it with fresh veggies like cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or celery for a healthier option.
For a more substantial snack, consider serving the dip with pita chips, crunchy bread slices, or even as a topping for tacos or nachos. You can also serve it as a side dish with grilled meats, such as chicken, pork, or beef. The richness of the dip complements savory proteins perfectly.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, use the Baked Elote Dip as a filling for a baked potato or a spread on a sandwich. You can even use it as a topping for a homemade pizza, turning a traditional pizza into a Mexican inspired treat. The possibilities are endless, and this dip is sure to elevate any dish you choose to pair it with.
The Perfect Appetizer for Every Party
Whether you’re hosting a large family reunion, a small dinner party, or a casual evening with friends, the Baked Elote Dip is the perfect appetizer. It’s easy to make in advance and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. If you’re planning a party, consider doubling the recipe to ensure there’s enough to go around, as this dip tends to disappear quickly.
Serve it alongside other finger foods like guacamole, salsa, or queso dip for a complete Mexican-inspired appetizer spread. Add some margaritas or a cold cerveza to the mix, and you’ve got a fiesta that everyone will enjoy.
Conclusion
The Baked Elote Dip is a crowd pleasing dish that combines the flavors of Mexican street corn with the creamy, cheesy goodness of a dip. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a family gathering, or just looking for a tasty snack, this dip is sure to satisfy your cravings.
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavor but also in its versatility. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dip that can be served in many different ways, making it a great addition to any meal or celebration. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this Baked Elote Dip will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
So the next time you’re looking for a delicious appetizer or snack, try making this Baked Elote Dip. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors, and it’s sure to be the star of any gathering. Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dip that’s full of flavor and fun!