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Flavorful Elote-Style Grilled Corn Dip with Jalapeño and Cotija

elote-style grilled corn dip - featured image

A smoky, spicy, creamy dip inspired by Mexican street corn, perfect for parties and gatherings. Combines grilled corn, jalapeño heat, and salty cotija cheese for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  2. Grill the husked corn directly on the grill grates for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3 minutes until kernels are tender and charred in spots.
  3. Let the corn cool slightly, then carefully cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife, avoiding the tough inner parts.
  4. While the corn cools, finely chop the jalapeño. Remove seeds and membranes if you prefer less heat.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add the grilled corn kernels, chopped jalapeño, half of the cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro (if using) to the bowl. Fold gently to combine evenly.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lime juice, or chili powder as needed.
  8. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and sprinkle the remaining cotija cheese over the top.
  9. Optional: Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Notes

If you don’t have a grill, broil the corn in the oven for 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway. For a lighter option, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Refrigerate dip for 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors. Adjust jalapeño heat by removing seeds or using milder peppers.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote, grilled corn dip, jalapeño, cotija cheese, party dip, Mexican street corn, appetizer, smoky dip