This Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip is a creamy, cheesy delight packed with sweet corn, tangy lime, and a sprinkle of chili powder. It’s perfect for dipping and bursting with flavor!
You can’t go wrong with this fun dip at parties! I love serving it with tortilla chips, and it always disappears fast. Trust me, it’s hard to have just one scoop! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh grilled corn gives the best flavor, but canned corn works as a great shortcut. Just be sure to drain it well! I often pick fresh corn in summer for the juiciest bite.
Mayonnaise: Traditional recipes use mayonnaise for creaminess. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a tasty substitute! You can mix that with a bit of lime juice for added zing.
Cotija Cheese: Cotija adds a salty, crumbly texture. If you can’t find it, feta cheese works wonderfully as a replacement – just use a bit less since feta can be saltier!
Chili Powder: For a kick, feel free to switch to smoked paprika or even cayenne for more heat! Adjusting the amount lets you control the spice level to your taste.
How Can I Get the Corn Perfectly Grilled or Cooked?
Getting that charred flavor in your corn is key to this dip. Here’s how to prepare it just right:
- For fresh corn, grill on medium-high heat until charred, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- If using canned corn, dry it well before sautéing in a hot skillet for a few minutes to add some color.
- Let it cool a bit before adding it to your dip for the best texture.
- For extra flavor, you can toss the fresh kernels in a bit of oil and lime juice before grilling.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious dip that captures that authentic Mexican street corn vibe! Enjoy with your favorite chips!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh grilled or canned/drained)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you choose to let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes after preparing, that allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives you a more festive dip!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, fire up the grill! Cook the ears on medium-high heat until they are lightly charred and tender, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once they are cool enough to handle, carefully scrape the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife. If you’re using canned corn, simply drain it well.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Mexican crema), lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until the mixture is nice and smooth—we want it creamy and delicious!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the corn kernels, crumbled Cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro to the bowl. Gently stir everything until it’s thoroughly combined. You’ll see all those beautiful colors come together!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dip a taste! If you’d like more zing, add a little extra salt, chili powder, or lime juice. Just mix it in until you’re happy with the flavors!
5. Serve It Up:
Scoop the dip into a serving bowl. Top it off with more Cotija cheese, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a dash of chili powder for garnish. It makes it look even more appetizing!
6. Enjoy:
Dig in right away with tortilla chips for the best experience! You can also let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to let those flavors really come out. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
This creamy, tangy, and cheesy dip inspired by traditional Mexican street corn will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy snack at home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Dip?
Yes, you can use frozen corn! Just make sure to thaw it completely before mixing it into the dip. You can quickly thaw it in cold water or microwave it for a minute or two. For added flavor, sauté it briefly in a skillet until warmed through.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you’d like more heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also increase the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference for a nice kick!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This dip can be made a day in advance. Just prepare it as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Give it a good stir before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply enjoy it cold with chips or use it as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. If you prefer it warm, heat it gently in a microwave or on the stove until warm.
