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Authentic Baked Elote Dip with Cotija Cheese and Lime Zest

Close-up of a bubbling, freshly baked elote dip in a clear glass dish with a golden, slightly charred cheese topping.

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Make this creamy, cheesy baked elote dip inspired by Mexican street corn. It is a simple, warm appetizer perfect for parties or game days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans corn kernels, drained
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe skillet.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the drained corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, 3/4 cup of the Cotija cheese, Parmesan cheese, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients until they are well combined.
  3. Spread the corn mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
  4. If you want a crispier top, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the dip.
  5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot throughout and the edges are bubbly.
  6. Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Cotija cheese over the top.
  7. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly melted and lightly golden.
  8. Let the dip cool for 5 minutes before serving warm with tortilla chips, sturdy crackers, or vegetable sticks.

Notes

  • For a smokier flavor, substitute smoked paprika for some of the chili powder.
  • If you cannot find Cotija cheese, use firm, salty feta cheese as a substitute.
  • You can roast the corn kernels in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes before mixing to deepen the flavor.

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