Baked Elote Dip

This Baked Elote Dip is the ultimate cheesy appetizer that everyone will love! Perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply a cozy night in, this dip delivers a rich and creamy flavor that’s hard to resist. With its vibrant blend of corn, cheese, and spices, it brings a taste of Mexico straight to your table. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this dip is a must-try for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleaser: This dip is always a hit at parties and gatherings, making it an ideal choice for entertaining guests.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients, you can whip this up without extensive grocery shopping.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with tortilla chips, veggies, or even spread on sandwiches for a unique twist.
• Quick Preparation: With only 25 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dip ready in no time.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of cheese and sour cream gives the dip its rich, creamy consistency that everyone craves.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing the Baked Elote Dip a breeze. Gather your essentials before you start cooking to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast iron skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast iron skillet: This is crucial for evenly cooking the dip and allowing for easy transfer from stovetop to oven.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy mixing spoon helps incorporate ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Dip

• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
• 6 whole scallions, thinly sliced (dark green portion kept separate)
• 16 ounces frozen corn kernels (or 3 cups fresh)
• 1 teaspoon Tajin or Trader Joe’s Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend
• 4 ounces ⅓-less-fat cream cheese
• ¼ cup light sour cream
• 7 ounces Cotija cheese, grated (1¾ cups)
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

How to Make Baked Elote Dip

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Adjust an oven rack in the center and another 6 inches from the broiler.

Step 2: Sauté Scallions

In your skillet:
1. Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Reserve 2 tablespoons of scallion greens for garnish.
3. Add the white and light-green parts of scallions along with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.
4. Cook until softened (about 2 to 3 minutes).

Step 3: Add Corn and Seasoning

Stir in:
1. The frozen corn kernels (or fresh corn if using).
2. The Tajin seasoning.
3. Sauté until the corn starts to soften (around 3 to 5 minutes).
4. Mix in the cream cheese until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Sour Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat:
1. Fold in the light sour cream along with ¾ cup of Cotija cheese.
2. Transfer the mixture to the oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes until edges start bubbling.

Step 5: Broil for a Crispy Top

After baking:
1. Carefully remove from oven.
2. Preheat your broiler.
3. Sprinkle remaining Cotija cheese on top.
4. Broil until browned (watch closely) for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once broiling is complete:
1. Remove from oven again.
2. Sprinkle reserved scallion greens and chopped cilantro over top.
3. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers!

How to Serve Baked Elote Dip

Baked Elote Dip is a delightful appetizer that always impresses at gatherings. Here are some creative ways to serve it to enhance your dining experience.

With Tortilla Chips

• Tortilla chips are classic accompaniments, providing a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy dip.

On Fresh Veggies

• Serve the dip alongside sliced bell peppers, carrots, or cucumbers for a fresh and healthy alternative.

As a Spread on Toast

• Spread the warmed dip on toasted baguette slices or crostini for an elegant touch at parties.

With Grilled Meats

• Use the Baked Elote Dip as a topping for grilled chicken or steak for an extra layer of flavor.

In Mini Tacos

• Spoon the dip into small taco shells for fun bite-sized servings that guests can easily enjoy.

How to Perfect Baked Elote Dip

To ensure your Baked Elote Dip turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and scallions will elevate the flavors compared to frozen options.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before baking; feel free to add more Tajin or salt according to your preference.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on the dip while it’s in the oven and under the broiler to prevent burning.
• Mix Cheeses: For a richer flavor, consider mixing Cotija with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes like cilantro and scallion greens—they add freshness and color!

Best Side Dishes for Baked Elote Dip

Complement your Baked Elote Dip with these delicious side dishes that will round out your appetizer spread.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant salad featuring corn, lime, and spices that echoes the flavors of elote.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime, onion, and cilantro offers a cooling contrast to the warm dip.
3. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the dip.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and cilantro serves as a hearty base for enjoying the dip.
5. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Spicy grilled shrimp complements the flavors of elote while adding protein to your spread.
6. Chili-Lime Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes tossed in chili powder and lime juice provide a delicious crunch alongside the dip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making baked elote dip, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Skipping Ingredient Preparation: Always ensure your ingredients are prepped before starting. Chopping scallions or grating cheese ahead of time can save you stress during cooking.
• Ignoring the Heat Settings: Make sure your skillet is at medium heat. Cooking at too high a temperature may burn the dip instead of allowing it to bubble perfectly.
• Underestimating Baking Time: Keep an eye on the dip as it bakes. If the edges aren’t bubbling and slightly browned after 12 minutes, give it a little more time to develop flavor.
• Neglecting to Garnish: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro and scallion greens on top! They add flavor and visual appeal that elevate your baked elote dip.
• Not Serving Immediately: This dip is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Letting it sit for too long will cause it to lose its gooey texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover baked elote dip in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Elote Dip

• You can freeze the baked elote dip for up to 2 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container for best results.

Reheating Baked Elote Dip

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re new to making baked elote dip or have some questions, here are answers to common inquiries.

What is Baked Elote Dip?

Baked elote dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer inspired by Mexican street corn. It’s made with corn, cheese, and spices, perfect for sharing!

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh corn can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure it’s cooked before adding it to the mix.

How spicy is this Baked Elote Dip?

The spice level depends on the seasoning used. Tajin adds a mild kick; if you prefer less spice, you can reduce or omit it.

Can I customize the ingredients in Baked Elote Dip?

Absolutely! You can add jalapeños for heat or swap cheeses based on your preference. Customize it to suit your taste!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep or gatherings. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Baked elote dip is an irresistible appetizer that brings joy and warmth to any gathering. Its cheesy goodness and ability to customize make it a crowd-pleaser. Try different toppings or spices to put your own spin on this delightful dish!