Elote Dip with Tortilla Chips (Printable)

Creamy, tangy elote dip featuring charred corn, cotija cheese, lime, and spices served with crunchy tortilla chips.

# What You Need:

→ For the Elote Dip

01 - 4 cups corn kernels, fresh, frozen, or canned, drained if necessary
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
04 - 1/4 cup sour cream
05 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced, seeds removed for less heat
10 - 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled, plus additional for garnish
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped, plus additional for garnish
12 - 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
13 - Zest and juice of 1 lime
14 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ For Serving

15 - Tortilla chips for dipping
16 - Lime wedges

# How-To Steps:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and corn kernels. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until corn is slightly charred and golden. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, jalapeño, cotija cheese, cilantro, red onion, lime zest, and lime juice. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
03 - Add the charred corn to the bowl and stir until all ingredients are evenly combined. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
04 - Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder.
05 - Serve warm or at room temperature with tortilla chips and lime wedges on the side.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes total.
  • Combines smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors for a complex taste experience.
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free, suitable for various dietary needs.
  • Perfect for serving with crispy tortilla chips at any festive occasion or casual get-together.
  • Customizable with optional garnishes and adjustments to spice level.
02 -
  • Use fresh corn when possible and char it well to maximize smoky flavor.
  • Remove jalapeño seeds to control heat level without losing flavor.
  • Prepare the dip up to one day in advance and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.
  • Check packaging on tortilla chips for gluten and allergen status to accommodate dietary restrictions.
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