Baked elote dip is a creamy, indulgent appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings. This dish combines the rich flavors of corn and cheese, making it a family-friendly favorite. It’s so easy to prepare and will have everyone coming back for more!
Table of Contents
What is Baked Elote Dip?
A Creamy, Cheesy Corn Delight
Baked elote dip is a delightful fusion of flavors inspired by traditional Mexican street corn. This dip features a creamy texture and a cheesy richness that pairs beautifully with crispy baked chips. Each bite bursts with the essence of sweet corn, making it a standout choice for parties or cozy nights in.
Inspired by Mexican Street Corn
This recipe is inspired by the classic elote, which features grilled corn smeared with creamy sauces and topped with Cotija cheese and spices. In this baked version, we skip the grill but keep all the delicious flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy summer corn any time of year!
Ingredients for Baked Elote Dip
Corn and Aromatics
- 6 scallions, thinly sliced (dark green portion reserved for garnish)
- 16 ounces frozen corn kernels or 3 cups fresh corn
Creamy Base and Cheese
- 4 ounces 1/3-less-fat cream cheese
- ¼ cup light sour cream
- 7 ounces Cotija cheese, grated (1 3/4 cups)
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 1 teaspoon Tajín or Trader Joe’s Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
How to Make Baked Elote Dip
Preparing the Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Position one rack in the center and another about six inches from the broiler. This allows for even baking and perfect browning later.
Sautéing the Corn Mixture
In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the white and light-green parts of the scallions along with ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they soften. Then, add the corn and seasoning, sautéing for another 3 to 5 minutes until the corn becomes tender.
Creating the Creamy Base
Once the corn is ready, stir in the cream cheese until it’s fully blended. Remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold in the sour cream and ¾ cup of the grated Cotija cheese, creating a luscious, creamy mixture.
Baking and Broiling to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges bubble and turn a lovely golden brown. Then, preheat the broiler. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Cotija cheese on top and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Garnishing and Serving
Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle the reserved scallion greens and fresh cilantro over the top. Serve this warm, creamy dip immediately with baked chips for a delightful crunch.
Tips for the Best Baked Elote Dip
Corn Choices: Fresh vs. Frozen
You can use either frozen corn or fresh corn in this recipe. Fresh corn provides a sweeter flavor, while frozen corn is convenient and consistently delicious.
Cheese Variations and Substitutions
If you can’t find Cotija cheese, crumbled feta or even shredded mozzarella can work well. For a spicier kick, feel free to add more Tajín or a splash of your favorite hot sauce!
Achieving the Perfect Broiled Top
Keep a close eye on the broiler while it’s working its magic. The goal is a perfectly browned top that adds texture and enhances the flavors of the dip.
Serving Suggestions
Baked chips are a classic pairing, but you might also enjoy it with fresh veggies, pita chips, or even spooned onto tacos. It’s versatile and delicious!
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for baked elote dip?
You will need scallions, corn, cream cheese, sour cream, Cotija cheese, olive oil, Tajín or Everything but the Elote seasoning, and kosher salt.
How long does it take to bake elote dip?
Baked elote dip takes about 10 to 12 minutes to bake in the oven.
Can I make baked elote dip ahead of time?
While it’s best served immediately, you can prepare the mixture ahead and bake it just before serving.
What can I serve with baked elote dip?
Serve it with baked chips, veggies, or even use it as a topping for tacos.
Is baked elote dip spicy?
The dip is mildly spicy due to the Tajín seasoning; adjust to your taste for more heat.
Related Recipes to try
- Elote
- Street Corn Pasta Salad
- Crack Corn Salad
- Baked Potato Salad
- Summer Side Dishes
- 4th Of July Bbq Sides
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make baked elote dip, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight. For more inspiration, check out these fun recipes on Pinterest, where you can explore even more tasty ideas!
Baked Elote Dip: A Deliciously Cheesy Treat
Equipment
- 10-inch ovenproof skillet
- cast-iron skillet
Ingredients
- 6 thinly sliced scallions dark green portion reserved for garnish
- 16 ounces corn kernels frozen or 3 cups fresh
- 1 teaspoon Tajín or Trader Joe’s Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend
- 4 ounces cream cheese 1/3-less-fat
- ¼ cup light sour cream
- 7 ounces Cotija cheese grated (1 3/4 cups)
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Position one rack in the center and another 6 inches from the broiler.
- In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the white and light-green parts of the scallions and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook until softened (2 to 3 minutes).
- Add the corn and seasoning. Sauté until the corn softens (3 to 5 minutes).
- Stir in the cream cheese until fully incorporated.
- Remove the pan from heat. Fold in the sour cream and 3/4 cup of the grated Cotija cheese.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake until the edges bubble and brown (10 to 12 minutes).
- Preheat the broiler. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Cotija cheese over the dip. Broil until browned (2 to 3 minutes), monitoring closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven. Sprinkle the reserved scallion greens and cilantro over the top. Serve immediately.
