Baked Elote Dip

Baked Elote Dip is a delightful Mexican cheesy skillet dip that brings the flavors of street corn right to your table. Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in, this dip is not only creamy and cheesy but also packed with the vibrant flavors of corn and spices. It’s a crowd-pleaser that offers a unique twist on traditional dips, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of Cotija cheese, scallions, and corn creates a rich, savory taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dip in no time. Perfect for busy cooks!
• Versatile Appetizer: Serve it with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even as a topping for tacos. Its versatility makes it ideal for any gathering.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy dip. It’s an easy way to introduce new flavors to picky eaters.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dip in advance and bake it just before serving. This saves time during busy occasions.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Baked Elote Dip, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

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: Ideal for even cooking and easy transfer from stovetop to oven.
• Mixing spoon: Perfect for combining ingredients thoroughly without damaging your skillet.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious 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 (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 and another 6 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 the scallions along with ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt.
Cook until softened, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Corn and Seasoning

Next, add:
The frozen corn kernels along with the Tajin seasoning.
Continue sautéing until the corn starts to soften, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Then:
Add the cream cheese and stir until it is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Fold in Sour Cream

Remove the pan from heat. Gently fold in:
The light sour cream along with ¾ cup of Cotija cheese.
Transfer this mixture to your preheated oven and bake until the edges start to bubble and brown—approximately 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 5: Broil for Extra Flavor

Carefully remove the pan from the oven and preheat your broiler. Then:
Sprinkle the remaining Cotija cheese over the top.
Transfer it under the broiler. Broil until browned—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—this should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Finally, remove the pan from the oven:
Sprinkle reserved scallion greens and some chopped cilantro over the top.
Serve immediately while it’s hot and gooey!

How to Serve Baked Elote Dip

Baked Elote Dip is a versatile dish that can elevate any gathering. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it the perfect appetizer for various occasions.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve with crispy tortilla chips for a classic pairing. The crunchy texture complements the creamy dip beautifully.

On Grilled Vegetables

• Spoon the dip over grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a healthy twist. This adds a smoky flavor to the already delicious dip.

In Mini Tacos

• Fill small taco shells with Baked Elote Dip for a fun and interactive appetizer. Top with fresh cilantro for added brightness.

With Pita Bread

• Use warm pita bread as a dipping option. The soft texture of pita contrasts nicely with the baked dip, making each bite delightful.

As a Nacho Topping

• Drizzle Baked Elote Dip over nachos for an extra cheesy treat. Layer with jalapeños and olives for added flavor.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair with fresh-cut veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and celery for a lighter option. This healthy choice balances out the richness of the dip.

How to Perfect Baked Elote Dip

To ensure your Baked Elote Dip turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn can enhance the flavor significantly compared to frozen options.

• Don’t Overmix: When adding cream cheese, mix just until incorporated to maintain some texture in your dip.

• Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your dip while baking; every oven is different, and you want it bubbly but not burnt.

• Add More Spice: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra Tajin for a spicier kick.

• Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro and scallions not only add color but also enhance the flavor profile of the dip.

• Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve your dip immediately after taking it out of the oven, ensuring it’s warm and gooey.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Elote Dip

Baked Elote Dip pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad featuring corn, lime juice, and chili powder that echoes the flavors of elote.

2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice and cilantro provides a smooth contrast to the cheesy dip.

3. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with zesty salsa balance out the rich taste of Baked Elote Dip.

4. Spicy Chicken Wings: Crispy wings tossed in your favorite hot sauce create an exciting combination when served alongside the dip.

5. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and cilantro adds freshness that pairs beautifully with the dip’s richness.

6. Black Bean Tacos: These hearty tacos filled with seasoned black beans offer a satisfying vegetarian option alongside your appetizer.

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy outer layer of roasted Brussels sprouts provides an interesting textural contrast to the creamy dip.

8. Stuffed Jalapeños: Spicy jalapeños stuffed with cheese or meat give diners an extra kick that complements Baked Elote Dip wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Baked Elote Dip can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than ideal results. Avoid these pitfalls for a delicious dip.

• Overcooking the corn: Cooking corn too long can make it mushy. Sauté just until it starts to soften for the best texture.
• Ignoring the cheese blend: Using only one type of cheese can affect flavor. Mix Cotija with cream cheese for a creamy consistency and rich taste.
• Skipping the broiler step: Not broiling at the end may leave your dip lacking that golden top layer. Broil briefly for a crispy finish.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Use Tajin or similar seasoning liberally to enhance the taste.
• Serving cold: Cold dip is not as appealing. Serve it right out of the oven for maximum gooeyness and warmth.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Baked Elote Dip

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy reheating.

Reheating Baked Elote Dip

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉ and bake until heated through, about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Baked Elote Dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dip ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Baked Elote Dip?

This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even toasted bread.

How do I customize my Baked Elote Dip?

Feel free to add jalapeños for heat or mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for variety.

Is Baked Elote Dip gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Baked Elote Dip is not only cheesy and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have at home. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering—it’s sure to impress!