This Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip is a creamy and zesty treat! With sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, and a delicious mix of cheeses, it’s perfect for parties or a night in.
Just grab some tortilla chips, and you’re all set to scoop up this yummy goodness! 😋 I usually make a big batch because it disappears fast—everyone loves it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn gives a sweet, crisp texture. If it’s not in season, frozen corn works perfectly too! Just thaw and drain it first for the best results.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds great flavor and a crumbly texture. If you can’t find Cotija, try using Feta or Queso Fresco. Both can mimic that salty punch!
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These two create a creamy base. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It adds a nice tang and is healthier too!
Jalapeño: For heat, jalapeño is excellent! For less spice, you can skip it or use a milder pepper like a bell pepper. You can also add a pinch of cayenne if you want a kick!
How Do I Make Sure My Dip Is Full of Flavor?
A big part of making this dip flavorful is in the seasoning and how you combine the ingredients. Start by mixing your mayo and sour cream with lime juice, garlic powder, and spices. Taste as you go!
- Make sure to sauté or grill fresh corn briefly; it enhances the flavor! If using frozen corn, ensure it’s completely thawed to avoid excess moisture.
- When combining ingredients, mix gently to keep the corn intact, but enough that everything is coated.
- Let the dip sit for about 30 minutes before serving if you have time; it helps the flavors really come together.
The trick is balancing the creamy texture with the zesty flavor! Enjoy your dip and let it be the star of your next gathering!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (if frozen, thaw before use)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, seeds removed for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you want the flavors to meld together really well, consider chilling it in the fridge for 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, heat a skillet on medium-high and briefly sauté or grill the corn for a few minutes until it’s lightly charred. This gives the dip an extra kick of flavor! If you’re using frozen corn, just thaw it and drain well to remove excess water.
2. Make the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy base is going to hold all the good flavors together!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the corn kernels, chopped jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and crumbled Cotija cheese to the bowl. Gently mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to break the corn too much.
4. Taste Test:
Give the dip a taste! If you feel it needs more flavor, add in some extra chili powder or a splash more lime juice. It’s all about making it just right for your taste buds!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer your delicious dip to a serving bowl and top it with some extra Cotija cheese and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a pretty finish.
6. Enjoy!
Serve the dip right away with tortilla chips for dipping, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let those flavors meld together even more. Enjoy this zesty, creamy dip as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well to remove any excess sodium. Canned corn is already cooked and will save you some prep time.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you’d like extra heat, add more chopped jalapeño or include diced fresh serrano peppers. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to amp up the spice level!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the ingredients. Letting it sit will also enhance the flavors!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle stir when you reheat or serve it again, as the ingredients may separate slightly.
