Dessert

Mexican Street Corn Dip Recipe

Name: Mexican Street Corn Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 cups sweet corn (2 cans, drained); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 6 ounces queso fresco (crumbled); 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)

BySophie Carsel March 1, 2026March 1, 2026

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Introduction

This Mexican Street Corn Dip captures the vibrant flavors of the classic elote in a creamy, easy-to-share dish. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, it combines sweet corn with tangy lime, smoky chili, and rich cheese for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

A white bowl with a textured outside edge is filled with a creamy corn dish made of yellow corn kernels mixed with white cheese crumbles and specks of green herbs scattered on top. Woman's hand is dipping a yellow corn chip into the chunky mixture, showing small layers of creamy and crumbly texture with light reddish seasoning visible throughout. In the blurred white marbled textured background, more corn chips and lime pieces are faintly seen. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups sweet corn (2 cans, drained)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
6 ounces queso fresco (crumbled)
1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the sweet corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
Step 2: Crumble the queso fresco and set aside about 1/4 cup for topping. Stir the remaining cheese into the dip mixture.
Step 3: Top the dip with the reserved queso fresco crumbles and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately, or chill for up to 24 hours.
Step 4: Serve with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, lightly char the corn before combining with other ingredients.
Swap queso fresco with cotija cheese if you prefer a saltier, crumbly texture.
If you like a bit more heat, add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Stir in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Use fresh corn kernels if in season for the best texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving again. This dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a creamy corn dish that has bright yellow corn kernels mixed in a pale sauce. The dish is topped with crumbles of white cheese and scattered green herb pieces. A woman's hand is dipping a lightly textured yellow tortilla chip into the creamy corn mixture. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with a blurred background that shows more tortilla chips and green lime pieces. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, this dip can be made up to 24 hours in advance and kept chilled until serving. The flavors will meld nicely over time.

What can I use if I can’t find queso fresco?

Cotija cheese is a great substitute if queso fresco is unavailable. Alternatively, feta can work, though it has a stronger flavor.