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Creamy Elote Dip Recipe with Cotija Cheese and Zesty Lime

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A quick and easy creamy elote dip featuring smoky grilled corn, tangy lime, and salty cotija cheese. Perfect for casual gatherings, game nights, or as a flavorful snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat or Greek yogurt)
  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh grilled, frozen, or canned, drained and patted dry)
  • 3/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons), plus extra wedges for serving
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, remove kernels from 3-4 ears and sauté in a hot skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until golden charred, stirring occasionally. If using frozen or canned corn, sauté for 3-4 minutes until warmed and slightly caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream. Stir in lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.
  3. Add the Corn and Cheese: Fold the warm corn kernels into the creamy base. Gently stir in crumbled cotija cheese and chopped jalapeño if using.
  4. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Add chopped cilantro and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lime juice, or chili powder as needed.
  5. Chill or Serve Immediately: Serve right away for a slightly warm dip or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld and thicken. Stir in a teaspoon of water or more lime juice if too thick after chilling.

Notes

Sautéing or grilling the corn is essential for smoky depth. Crumble cotija cheese by hand for best texture. Fresh lime juice is preferred over bottled for bright flavor. Adjust spice level with jalapeño or chili powder. For dairy-free version, use coconut yogurt and vegan mayo. The dip thickens when chilled; stir in water or lime juice if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote dip, creamy corn dip, cotija cheese dip, lime dip, Mexican appetizer, snack recipe, easy dip, party dip

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/creamy-elote-dip-recipe-with-cotija-cheese-and-zesty-lime-easy-homemade-snack/