This Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip brings all the tasty flavors of street corn into a delicious bowl. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with sweet corn, herbs, and spices!
Every time I make this dip, it disappears fast! I love to serve it with crispy tortilla chips for munching while catching up with friends. Perfect for any party or just a cozy night in! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn tastes best, giving you that wonderful crunch. However, if it’s not in season, frozen corn works fine. Just make sure it’s thawed and drained well!
Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds a salty kick. If you can’t find it, you can use feta cheese as a substitute. Although the flavor is different, it still brings a nice creaminess!
Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It still offers a creamy texture but fewer calories!
Spices: Adjust the chili powder and smoked paprika to your liking. For a milder flavor, you can use less or swap it with regular paprika.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Corn?
The key to maximizing the corn’s flavor is cooking it properly. When using fresh corn, grilling gives you that nice charred taste, which enhances the dip. If boiling, make sure not to overcook — just until the kernels are tender.
- If using frozen corn, simply thaw it and ensure there’s no extra water. This helps to keep the dip creamy and prevents it from getting watery.
- For added depth, consider sautéing the corn in a hot pan with a little butter or oil until it gets a bit of color.
Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels, thawed if frozen
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick mix-and-serve recipe, perfect for a last-minute party treat or a fun family snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, first cook the ears by either boiling them for about 5-7 minutes or grilling them until the kernels are tender and slightly charred, which adds great flavor. Once cooked, let them cool a bit and then cut the kernels off the cob. If you’re using frozen corn, just thaw it and make sure to drain off any excess moisture.
2. Mixing the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well with a whisk or spoon until everything is smooth and creamy.
3. Incorporating the Corn:
Add the corn kernels to your creamy mixture. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that all the corn is nicely coated with the sauce.
4. Adding Cheese & Cilantro:
Now, fold in the crumbled cotija cheese and chopped fresh cilantro, reserving a little bit of each for garnishing later. This adds pops of flavor and color!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dip a taste test! If you want it a little spicier, add more chili powder, or if you like it tangier, squeeze in more lime juice. Feel free to season with extra salt and pepper as desired.
6. Garnishing:
Transfer your dip to a serving bowl. Top it off with the reserved cotija cheese and cilantro for a beautiful presentation.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in right away with crispy tortilla chips. The flavors are at their best when freshly made, so enjoy this delightful dip with friends and family!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip that’s perfect for parties or casual snacking!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can! If using canned corn, make sure to drain and rinse it well to reduce excess sodium. This option is convenient and still delicious—just toss it into your dip without any cooking needed!
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or smoked paprika, depending on your spice preference.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a few hours in advance; just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just add the cilantro and cotija cheese garnish right before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, try to consume it within this time. Stir well before serving again, and consider adding a splash of lime juice to freshen it up!
