Baked Elote Dip

This Baked Elote Dip is a delightful, cheesy appetizer that will steal the spotlight at any gathering! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for game nights, parties, or casual family dinners. This dip combines the sweetness of corn with savory cheese and spices, making it an irresistible dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This dip comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy goodness and vibrant flavors, this dip is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even as a topping for grilled meats—there are endless ways to enjoy it!
• Healthy Twist: Using lighter ingredients doesn’t compromise on taste, allowing you to indulge without guilt.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

To make the Baked Elote Dip successfully, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These will help you prepare the ingredients efficiently and ensure even cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast iron skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast iron skillet: This allows you to cook the dip on the stovetop before baking it in the oven for optimal flavor.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy mixing spoon is essential for thoroughly combining all the cheesy goodness without damaging your skillet.

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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; about 1¾ cups)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

How to Make Baked Elote Dip

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Sauté Scallions

In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast iron skillet:
1. Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Set aside 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

1. Add the frozen corn kernels and seasoning to the skillet.
2. Continue sautéing until the corn starts to soften, about 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cream cheese until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix in Sour Cream and Cotija

1. Remove the pan from heat.
2. Fold in the light sour cream along with ¾ cup of Cotija cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Dip

1. Transfer the mixture to the oven.
2. Bake until edges start bubbling and browning, about 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 6: Broil for a Golden Finish

1. Carefully remove from oven and preheat broiler.
2. Sprinkle remaining cup of Cotija cheese over top.
3. Broil until browned (watch carefully so it doesn’t burn), about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and sprinkle reserved scallion greens along with cilantro over top. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or fresh veggies!

How to Serve Baked Elote Dip

Baked Elote Dip is a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve warm with crunchy tortilla chips for the perfect textural contrast. The dip’s creaminess pairs wonderfully with the crispy chips.

On Fresh Vegetable Sticks

• Offer fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers as a healthier option. This adds a refreshing crunch that complements the rich dip.

In Mini Taco Shells

• Use mini taco shells to create bite-sized portions. Fill them with the dip for fun finger food that guests will love.

As a Spread on Sandwiches

• Spread Baked Elote Dip on sandwiches or wraps for an extra burst of flavor. It makes for a creamy and delicious addition to any sandwich.

With Pita Bread

• Serve with warm pita bread cut into triangles. The soft pita complements the cheesy dip beautifully.

On Nachos

• Drizzle the Baked Elote Dip over nachos for a loaded snack. Top with jalapeños for an added kick!

How to Perfect Baked Elote Dip

To ensure your Baked Elote Dip turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Whenever possible, opt for fresh corn instead of frozen for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste the dip before baking and adjust the seasoning to your preference. A little extra Tajin can add more zest.
• Don’t skip broiling – Broiling at the end gives the top a beautiful golden color and adds an irresistible crispy layer.
• Let it cool slightly – Allow the dip to cool for a few minutes before serving; this helps it set up nicely and enhances flavors.
• Garnish generously – Fresh cilantro and scallions not only add color but also freshen up each bite.
• Experiment with cheese – While Cotija is traditional, mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack can create new flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Elote Dip

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Elote Dip can enhance your appetizer experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dish adds richness and balances the spiciness of the dip.
2. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime juice provides a colorful and protein-packed side.
3. Mexican Street Corn Salad – A twist on classic elote, this salad features corn mixed with lime, cheese, and spices—perfectly complementary!
4. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes – Crispy potatoes seasoned with chili powder and lime are an excellent side that matches well with the flavors of elote.
5. Spicy Salsa Verde – Serve alongside salsa verde for an extra layer of flavor that brings zest and heat.
6. Grilled Veggies – Smoky grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers make for a healthy companion that pairs well with cheesy dips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Elote Dip, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the flavor and texture of this delicious appetizer.

• Using frozen corn without thawing – Always thaw your frozen corn before cooking. This helps the dip achieve the right texture and prevents excess water from diluting the flavors.
• Overbaking the dip – Keep an eye on your dip as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Remove it from the oven once the edges are bubbling and slightly browned.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments – Taste your mix before baking. If it seems bland, adding more Tajin or salt can enhance the overall flavor profile of your Baked Elote Dip.
• Ignoring cheese quality – Use high-quality Cotija cheese for the best results. Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
• Not garnishing properly – Don’t skip the fresh cilantro and scallion greens on top. These garnishes add freshness and a pop of color that elevates your dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Elote Dip in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Elote Dip

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Baked Elote Dip

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Baked Elote Dip, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh corn works wonderfully. You need about 3 cups of fresh corn kernels for this recipe.

How spicy is Baked Elote Dip?

The spice level depends on how much Tajin you use. You can adjust it based on your preference for heat.

What can I serve with Baked Elote Dip?

This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers, or even as a spread on toasted bread.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

Final Thoughts

Baked Elote Dip is not just a flavorful appetizer; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or toppings based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night at home, this dip is sure to impress. Give it a try and discover how delicious homemade dips can be!