Baked Elote Dip

This Baked Elote Dip is a delightful Mexican cheesy skillet dip that will steal the show at any gathering! Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in, this dip combines sweet corn, creamy cheese, and zesty seasonings to create an irresistible appetizer. With its ooey gooey texture and vibrant flavors, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser at your next event!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Baked Elote Dip comes together quickly with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of corn, Cotija cheese, and spices creates a rich and savory taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with tortilla chips, in tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats.
• Crowd Favorite: With enough servings for 10 people, it’s perfect for gatherings where you want to impress your guests.
• Perfectly Cheesy: The blend of cream cheese and Cotija ensures a creamy texture that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Baked Elote Dip, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast iron skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast iron skillet: This is crucial for both cooking on the stovetop and baking in the oven.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy mixing spoon helps combine ingredients smoothly for a consistent dip texture.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Baked Elote Dip:

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

Begin by adjusting an oven rack in the center position and another six inches from the broiler. Preheat your oven to 350℉.

Step 2: Sauté Scallions

In your 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast iron skillet:
Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Set aside 2 tablespoons of scallion greens for garnish.
Add the white and light-green parts of scallions along with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.
Cook until softened, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Corn and Seasoning

Next:
Add the corn kernels and Tajin seasoning to the skillet.
Sauté until the corn starts to soften, around 3 to 5 minutes.
Incorporate the cream cheese until fully melted and blended into the mixture.

Step 4: Fold in Sour Cream and Cheese

Remove your pan from heat:
Gently fold in the light sour cream along with ¾ cup of grated Cotija cheese.
Transfer this mixture into your preheated oven.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling

Bake until you see bubbling edges and browning around 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 6: Broil for a Golden Finish

Carefully remove from oven:
Preheat your broiler.
Sprinkle remaining Cotija cheese over the top.
Broil until browned—this should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven:
Sprinkle reserved scallion greens and some chopped cilantro on top.
Serve immediately while hot! Enjoy this delicious Baked Elote Dip with tortilla chips or veggies.

How to Serve Baked Elote Dip

Baked Elote Dip is an irresistible appetizer that brings the flavors of Mexican street corn right to your table. Here are some creative ways to serve this cheesy delight to impress your guests.

With Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up the creamy dip. Opt for homemade chips for a fresher taste.

On Fresh Veggies

• Serve with sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or celery sticks for a healthier option. This adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the dip.

In Mini Tortilla Bowls

• Use small tortilla bowls for individual servings. These can be baked until crispy and filled with warm elote dip, making it a fun finger food.

As a Topping for Tacos

• Use Baked Elote Dip as a topping for tacos. Its creamy texture elevates any taco dish and adds a delightful twist.

With Pita Bread

• Warm pita bread cut into triangles makes an excellent accompaniment. The soft bread complements the richness of the dip beautifully.

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 enhance flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Watch the Broiler Closely: When broiling, stay nearby to prevent burning. The cheese should be golden brown but not charred.
• Mix Thoroughly: Ensure you mix in the cream cheese completely for a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro and scallion greens make for an attractive presentation and add freshness to each bite.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the dip hot from the oven while it’s gooey and bubbly.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Elote Dip

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

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that complements the flavors of elote perfectly.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A fresh salad that mirrors the flavors of elote, adding crunch and zest.
3. Chili Lime Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of fruits seasoned with chili powder and lime juice, balancing out the richness of the dip.
4. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas can be cut into wedges for easy dipping alongside elote dip.
5. Black Bean Salsa: A zesty black bean salsa adds protein and fiber while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
6. Spanish Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with spices can act as a hearty base or side alongside the dip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Elote Dip, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Using stale ingredients – Always check the freshness of your ingredients, especially cheese and spices, to ensure the best flavor.
• Skipping the preheating step – Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat for optimal results.
• Overcooking the corn – If you cook the corn too long before baking, it can become mushy. Just sauté until slightly softened.
• Not adjusting seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjusting seasoning to your preference enhances the overall flavor of your dip.
• Forgetting the garnish – Garnishes like scallions and cilantro add freshness and color. Don’t skip this important step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Baked Elote Dip

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as it may expand when frozen.

Reheating Baked Elote Dip

• Oven – Preheat to 350℉ and bake until heated through, about 15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts (30 seconds), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat gently over low heat while stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I customize my Baked Elote Dip?

You can add diced jalapeños for heat or mix in cooked bacon for a smoky flavor. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar for variation.

Can I make Baked Elote Dip ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it up to baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a fresh experience.

Is Baked Elote Dip gluten-free?

Yes, this dip is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients. Always check labels if you’re using specific brands.

What do I serve with Baked Elote Dip?

Serve with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or even toasted bread slices for dipping. It’s perfect for parties!

Final Thoughts

Baked Elote Dip is an irresistible appetizer that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Its creamy texture and delightful flavors make it versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it truly your own!