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Flavorful Mexican Street Corn Dip

mexican street corn dip - featured image

A creamy, tangy, and smoky Mexican street corn dip that’s quick and easy to make, perfect for parties and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears) or 2 cans (15 oz each) drained corn
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: dash of hot sauce or pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. If using fresh corn, shuck and rinse about 4 ears to yield 3 cups of kernels. Heat a dry cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until some kernels are lightly charred and smoky. If using canned corn, drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  3. Mix in minced garlic, fresh lime juice, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
  4. Fold in crumbled Cotija cheese and chopped fresh cilantro.
  5. Add the charred or drained corn kernels to the creamy mixture. Gently fold together until well coated and evenly mixed. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  7. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with additional Cotija cheese, a dash of chili powder, and cilantro leaves before serving.

Notes

[‘Char the corn for best smoky flavor; canned corn can be used without charring.’, ‘Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing.’, ‘Fresh lime juice is essential for bright flavor.’, ‘Fold gently to maintain texture; avoid overmixing.’, ‘Adjust spice levels with cayenne or hot sauce as desired.’, ‘Dip keeps well for up to 2 days refrigerated; flavors improve after resting.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican street corn dip, corn dip, party snack, easy dip, creamy dip, smoky dip, cotija cheese, chili powder, lime juice