Name: Irresistibly Creamy Baked Elote Dip You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Avocado oil is a great substitute.); 6 whole Scallions, thinly sliced (Use dark green parts for garnish.); 16 ounces Frozen Corn Kernels (Fresh corn works beautifully when in season.); 1 teaspoon Tajin or Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend (Any chili powder mix can substitute.); 4 ounces ⅓ Less-Fat Cream Cheese (Feel free to use full-fat for richer taste.); ¼ cup Light Sour Cream (Greek yogurt serves as a healthy alternative.); 7 ounces Cotija Cheese, grated (Feta or Parmesan can be used as substitutes.); Fresh Cilantro (Optional if cilantro isn't preferred.)

As I rounded the corner of my local farmer’s market, the sweet scent of roasted corn danced through the air, awakening my cravings for a classic Mexican treat: elote. That iconic street food had me thinking—what if I transformed it into a guilt-free version that’s perfect for sharing? Enter my Lightened-Up Baked Elote Dip, a creamy delight that captures all those delicious flavors in a healthier wrap. This easy-to-make dip is not only a crowd-pleaser for game days and casual hangouts but also a fantastic way to indulge without the extra calories. Imagine serving it with crispy tortilla chips or fresh veggies, engaging friends in conversation while relishing every gooey bite. Are you ready to dive into this comforting treat that brings a taste of Mexico right to your table?

Why Will You Love This Dip?

Creamy Indulgence: This Lightened-Up Baked Elote Dip delivers a mouthwatering richness without the guilt, making it perfect for any occasion.
Bold, Authentic Flavors: With the perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients, it brings the essence of traditional Mexican elote right to your table.
Easy to Prepare: Whip it up in under 30 minutes, allowing you more time to enjoy with friends or family.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with tortilla chips, pita chips, or fresh veggies for a customizable snacking experience that pleases everyone. Need more ideas? Check out my Queso Cheese Dip or Pizza Pasta Bake Recipe for additional crowd-pleasing appetizers!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven just before serving, making it a convenient choice for busy gatherings.
Health-Conscious Twist: Enjoy all the flavors of a classic dip but with lighter ingredients, so you can savor every bite without worrying about the calories!

Baked Elote Dip Ingredients

For the Base
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing scallions and adding richness; avocado oil is a great substitute.
• Scallions (6 whole, thinly sliced) – Offers sharpness and freshness; use the dark green parts for a vibrant garnish.
• Frozen Corn Kernels (16 ounces or 3 cups fresh) – The core flavor of the dip, and fresh corn works beautifully when in season.
• Tajin or Trader Joe’s Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend (1 teaspoon) – Adds authentic Mexican flavors; any chili powder mix can substitute in a pinch.
• ⅓ Less-Fat Cream Cheese (4 ounces) – Creates a creamy base while keeping the dip light; feel free to use full-fat for a richer taste.
• Light Sour Cream (¼ cup) – Contributes creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt serves as a healthy alternative.
• Cotija Cheese (7 ounces, grated) – Imparts saltiness and texture; Feta or Parmesan can also step in if needed.
For Garnish
• Fresh Cilantro – Enhances freshness and visual appeal; optional if cilantro isn’t your thing.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s get started on creating this delicious Baked Elote Dip that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Elote Dip

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to adjust one oven rack to the center and another about six inches from the broiler. This will prepare your space for the perfect, bubbling finish of the Baked Elote Dip.

Step 2: Sauté the Scallions
In a 10-inch ovenproof or cast iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the white and light-green parts of the thinly sliced scallions along with a pinch of kosher salt. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the scallions have softened and become fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Corn and Seasoning
Next, stir in 16 ounces of frozen corn kernels and 1 teaspoon of Tajin seasoning. Keep sautéing the mixture for another 3-5 minutes, until the corn is tender and heated through. You’ll know it’s ready when the corn turns a vibrant yellow and fragrant steam wafts from the skillet.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cream Cheese
Reduce the heat and add 4 ounces of less-fat cream cheese to the corn mixture. Continue cooking, stirring frequently until the cream cheese is fully melted and smoothly incorporated. This step is crucial, so make sure the mixture is evenly blended before removing it from the heat.

Step 5: Mix in Sour Cream and Cotija
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed corn mixture with ¼ cup of light sour cream and ¾ cup of grated Cotija cheese. Stir well until everything is combined, creating a creamy and luscious texture that embodies the essence of your Baked Elote Dip.

Step 6: Bake the Mixture
Transfer the dip mixture back into the skillet and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on it; a delightful aroma should fill your kitchen!

Step 7: Broil for a Golden Finish
Switch the oven to broil and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Cotija cheese on top of the dip. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning the cheese. You’re looking for a beautifully browned and toasted layer on top.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the Baked Elote Dip to cool slightly. Garnish with the reserved scallion greens and fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, pita chips, or fresh veggies, and savor this delicious treat!

Expert Tips for Baked Elote Dip

Perfect Temperature: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking; starting with a hot oven helps the dip bubble nicely without drying out.
Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye while broiling to avoid burning. The cheese can go from perfectly browned to charred in seconds!
Fresh Corn Option: If using fresh corn, grill it beforehand for a smoky flavor that enhances your Baked Elote Dip.
Creamy Consistency: Mix in the sour cream off heat to maintain its velvety texture; this step is key for a luscious dip.
Flavor Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning based on your cheese choice; Cotija is salty, so you might need less added salt for the dip.
Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the cilantro and scallions; they elevate the dish visually and add a refreshing kick!

Make Ahead Options

This Lightened-Up Baked Elote Dip is a fantastic choice for meal prep, seamlessly fitting into your busy schedule! You can prepare the entire dip up to 24 hours in advance: simply sauté all the ingredients, combine them, and transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. To ensure the dip maintains its creamy texture, mix the sour cream in off heat and avoid overcooking when reheating. When it’s time to serve, just pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly, and then broil for that golden finish. You’ll have a delicious crowd-pleaser with minimal last-minute effort!

Baked Elote Dip Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Baked Elote Dip truly your own, bursting with flavor and texture!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with cashew cream for a vegan option without compromising creaminess. This approach gives the dip a unique richness that is wonderfully satisfying.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or minced chipotle peppers for a fiery twist. The heat beautifully complements the sweetness of the corn, creating a dip that has everyone reaching for more!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or finely chopped smoked sausage to elevate the depth of flavor. It infuses the dip with a warm, inviting essence that’s hard to resist—perfect for cozy gatherings.
Herby Freshness: Swap out cilantro for freshly chopped basil or parsley for a different herbaceous vibe. This keeps the dip light and fresh, while adding a new dimension of flavor.
Nutty Texture: Toss in some toasted peppitas (pumpkin seeds) for added crunch and nutty undertones. Their delightful crunch provides a wonderful contrast to the creamy dip.
Mashed Avocado: Blend in a ripe avocado for a silky texture and a delightful hint of tanginess. It complements the corn beautifully, turning your dip into a luxurious experience.
Zesty Lime: Add a splash of fresh lime juice or zest for a burst of brightness. The citrus notes elevate the flavor, making the dip refreshing and perfect for summer!
Garnish Upgrade: Experiment with toppings like crumbled tortilla chips or pomegranate seeds for a fun pop of color and texture. These additions not only enhance presentation but also add delightful surprises in every bite.

With these variations, your Baked Elote Dip will shine at any gathering. Don’t hesitate to dive back into the kitchen! And if you’re craving more ideas, think about branching out with a hearty Baked Salmon Lemon or a comforting Pizza Pasta Bake. Enjoy customizing your dip journey!

What to Serve with Lightened-Up Baked Elote Dip

Serving your dip with the right complements will take your gathering to the next level, creating an unforgettable snacking experience.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Their delightful crunch perfectly contrasts the creamy texture of the dip, making each bite an adventure.
Fresh Veggie Sticks: Carrot and cucumber sticks bring a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the dip while offering a healthy option.
Pita Chips: The subtle flavors of pita chips provide a lovely backdrop for the dip, inviting everyone to scoop up that cheesy goodness.
Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds a rich, buttery element that pairs well with the savory notes of the dip, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the dish and adds a tangy finish, elevating each scoop with a fresh burst of flavor.
Mexican Beer: Light beers or refreshing ales complement the dip’s bold flavors, making them a perfect pairing for a fun game day atmosphere.
Ranch Water: This light and effervescent drink balances the richness of the dip while staying true to its Mexican roots, perfect for quenching your thirst.
Sweet Corn Salsa: A fresh sweet corn salsa can refresh the palate and celebrate the dip’s flavors, adding an extra layer of texture and taste.
Churros for Dessert: Serve up warm churros with a chocolate dipping sauce as a delightful finish to your meal, blending flavors and cultures beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Elote Dip

Fridge: Store leftover Baked Elote Dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through for best texture.
Freezer: Freeze the dip in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for optimal consistency.
Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat in a 350°F oven until bubbly, usually about 15-20 minutes. This helps restore its creamy texture.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Bake just before serving for hot, gooey goodness!

Baked Elote Dip Recipe FAQs

What kind of corn should I use for Baked Elote Dip?
For the best flavor, I recommend using frozen corn kernels since they are sweet and convenient. If fresh corn is in season, feel free to substitute that for an extra fresh touch! Just grill it beforehand for a smoky flavor that enhances the dip.

How can I store leftover Baked Elote Dip?
Absolutely! Store your leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave until it’s warmed through to enjoy it again; the texture will be best if reheated in the oven!

Can I freeze Baked Elote Dip?
Yes, you can freeze it! Place the dip in a well-sealed container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking it in a preheated oven at 350°F until bubbly—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

What can I do if my Baked Elote Dip is too thick?
If you find your dip is too thick, don’t worry! Simply stir in a tablespoon or two of milk or more sour cream to achieve the desired consistency. This will help to loosen it up while keeping the creamy texture intact.

Is this Baked Elote Dip suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
If you’re catering to dietary needs, this dip is quite flexible! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and opt for gluten-free tortilla chips or veggies for dipping. Just be sure to check all ingredients for allergens like dairy or gluten based on your guests’ requirements.

How long does it take to prepare Baked Elote Dip?
It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! With prep time, including chopping and cooking, plus baking, you’ll have a delicious dip ready in no time. Perfect for a last-minute snack or appetizer!