Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of roasted corn fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel excited about this unforgettable gathering staple—the Baked Elote Dip! This lightened-up version of the classic Mexican dip brings together creamy, cheesy goodness without the guilt. Perfectly balanced with hints of spice from Tajin and fresh cilantro, it’s an appetizer that beautifully captures the essence of summer, no matter the season. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and makes for a crowd-pleaser at parties or game days. Gather some tortilla chips or fresh veggies, and you’re ready to dive into a dish that provides all the comfort of home with a zestful twist. Ready to discover how to make this delightful dip that everyone will talk about? Let’s get started! Why is Baked Elote Dip a Must-Try? Simplicity at its Best: This lightened-up Baked Elote Dip requires minimal ingredients and effort, ensuring it’s perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Rich, Flavorful Experience: With creamy cheese and sweet corn, every bite bursts with the bold flavors of summer, making this dip an instant favorite. Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with tortilla chips, fresh veggie sticks, or even as a topping for grilled chicken. It pairs wonderfully with options like Baked Tofu for a complete meal. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dip is sure to impress your guests. Healthy Yet Indulgent: Lightening up classic recipes like this one means you can indulge guilt-free, making it a reliable go-to for your gatherings. Make this Baked Elote Dip your next crowd-pleaser and watch the compliments roll in! Baked Elote Dip Ingredients Ready to whip up this delicious Baked Elote Dip? Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy and satisfying appetizer! For the Base Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing to infuse flavors; feel free to substitute with avocado oil for a unique twist. Scallions (6 whole, thinly sliced) – Provides a lovely crunch and aromatic flavor; remember to reserve the dark green parts for garnish! Frozen Corn Kernels (16 ounces) – Adds that sweet, delicious flavor; fresh corn can substitute beautifully—just use about 3 cups. Tajin or Trader Joe’s Everything but the Elote Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – Elevates the dish with its signature spice; if you don’t have it, chili powder makes a fine alternative. For the Creamy Mixture ⅓-Less-Fat Cream Cheese (4 ounces) – This creamy base keeps the calories in check; you can also opt for full-fat cream cheese if preferred. Light Sour Cream (¼ cup) – Adds creaminess while remaining light; Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a tangier flavor. Cotija Cheese (7 ounces, grated) – Delivers that salty crumbly goodness; if you’re in a pinch, feta cheese works as a solid alternative. With these key ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Baked Elote Dip that everyone will adore! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Elote Dip Step 1: Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), adjusting racks to ensure even heat distribution. This step is essential for achieving a perfectly bubbling Baked Elote Dip. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and a 10-inch cast iron skillet for sautéing. Step 2: Sauté Scallions In your preheated skillet, drizzle in some extra virgin olive oil and heat over medium. Add the white and light-green parts of the scallions, along with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the scallions soften and become fragrant, creating a wonderful base for your dip. Step 3: Add Corn and Seasoning Toss the frozen corn kernels into the skillet with the sautéed scallions, along with the Tajin or your chosen seasoning. Stir well and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the corn softens and releases its natural sweetness. This will enhance the delightful flavor of your Baked Elote Dip. Step 4: Mix in Creamy Ingredients Once the corn is ready, reduce the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese, ensuring it fully incorporates into the mixture. Afterward, remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold in the light sour cream and ¾ cup of grated Cotija cheese until everything is beautifully combined and creamy. Step 5: Bake the Dip Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the mixture for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know your Baked Elote Dip is done when the edges are bubbling and lightly browned, creating an irresistible golden crust that beckons for a scoop. Step 6: Broil for a Golden Finish After baking, set your oven to broil and sprinkle the remaining Cotija cheese on top of the dip. Broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. The cheese will melt and turn a lovely golden hue, adding that perfect finishing touch to your dip. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Once broiled to perfection, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish your Baked Elote Dip with the reserved dark green scallion tops and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or fresh veggie sticks for a delightful appetizer experience. How to Store and Freeze Baked Elote Dip Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal it well to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: You can freeze Baked Elote Dip for up to 2 months. Cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy. Reheating: To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 15-20 minutes). Alternatively, microwave until hot, stirring occasionally for even warming. Serving Reminder: If reheating from frozen, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before baking to restore that desirable bubbly texture. Baked Elote Dip Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this Baked Elote Dip—your taste buds will thank you! Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese and sour cream for coconut yogurt for a creamy vegan alternative. It’ll lend a subtle tropical twist! Spicy Kick: Toss in 1-2 diced jalapeños to the corn mixture for an extra layer of heat. This transformation can make your party dip an exciting thrill! Herb-Infused: Replace cilantro with fresh parsley or dill for a unique herbaceous taste. Try a blend for a delightful surprise in every bite. Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lime juice to the mixture for zesty brightness. This easy adjustment elevates the overall flavor profile beautifully. Extra Crunch: Mix in some diced red bell pepper or chopped water chestnuts for added texture. The crunch will delight your guests, making every scoop satisfying! Seasoning Swap: If you can’t find Tajin, a mix of chili powder, garlic powder, and a touch of salt can replicate that signature flavor. Adjust to taste for your ideal spice level! Cheese Variety: Substitute Cotija with crumbled feta cheese or even sharp cheddar for a different cheesy experience. Each will create a distinct taste for your dip! Loaded Style: Take it a step further and top the dip with some cooked, crumbled chorizo or seasoned black beans for a heartier, more filling option. It adds a delightful dimension to every scoop! As you experiment, don’t forget to explore wonderful pairings like Baked Cod Coconut and Oven Baked Chicken to create a memorable meal for your loved ones! Make Ahead Options This Baked Elote Dip is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its creamy goodness without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the entire dip mixture up to 24 hours in advance—simply complete steps 1 through 4, then cover and refrigerate. Before baking, bring it to room temperature to ensure even cooking. For best results, keep the Cotija cheese separate until right before you broil it, adding it just at the end for that golden finish. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, and you’ll have an irresistible dip that tastes freshly made, saving you valuable time on busy evenings! Expert Tips for Baked Elote Dip Monitor While Broiling: Keep a close eye on your dip when broiling to prevent burning, ensuring that cheese gets perfectly golden without char. Use a Cast Iron Skillet: This helps distribute heat evenly and allows for a delightful bubbly finish, enhancing the creamy texture of your Baked Elote Dip. Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps it blend smoothly into the mixture for a creamy consistency. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to add more Tajin or chili powder according to your flavor preference, especially if you enjoy some extra spice in your dip! Experiment with Cheeses: If Cotija isn’t available, try feta or mozzarella instead. Each will bring a unique twist to your Baked Elote Dip! What to Serve with Baked Elote Dip Imagine a vibrant gathering where friends and family come together to enjoy flavors bursting with warmth and camaraderie. Tortilla Chips: Crispy, salty, and perfect for scooping, they create a delightful contrast to the creamy dip. Fresh Vegetable Sticks: Carrot and cucumber dippers add a refreshing crunch, making every bite a well-balanced delight. Serve them alongside for a healthy twist. Guacamole: Pairing this luscious dip with creamy, zesty guacamole elevates your appetizer spread to a whole new level of deliciousness. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This salad echoes the warm flavors of elote, providing a fresh and colorful option that complements the dip beautifully. Margaritas: Refreshing, citrusy margaritas pair perfectly with the flavors of the dip, enhancing that festive mood with every sip. Spicy Salsa: A zesty salsa adds a layer of heat, making it the ideal counterpoint to the mellow creaminess of the Baked Elote Dip. Cheesy Quesadillas: Golden, crispy quesadillas can be filled with your favorite melty cheese, making them a satisfying side to the creamy dip. Churros: Finish off your delicious spread with these sweet, cinnamon-dusted delights for a sweet ending to a savory experience. Baked Elote Dip Recipe FAQs What type of corn is best for Baked Elote Dip? Absolutely, using frozen corn kernels is a convenient option, as they are already sweet and tender. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh corn can enhance the dish even more! About 3 cups of fresh corn kernels can be substituted for the 16 ounces of frozen corn. Just make sure to cook it until it softens, bringing that delicious sweetness to the dip. How should I store leftovers of Baked Elote Dip? For best results, store your leftover Baked Elote Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal the container tightly to keep the flavors intact. Just before serving again, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste. Can Baked Elote Dip be frozen? Yes! You can freeze your Baked Elote Dip for up to 2 months. Allow the dip to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and delicious. What if my dip isn’t creamy enough? If you find that your Baked Elote Dip isn’t as creamy as you’d like, consider adding a bit more light sour cream or cream cheese during the mixing stage. Make sure both ingredients are softened to room temperature so they combine smoothly. You can also add a splash of milk or a drizzle of olive oil to achieve your desired consistency! Is Baked Elote Dip gluten-free? Yes, the Baked Elote Dip can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that your seasonings—like Tajin—are free from gluten. Ingredients like sour cream, cream cheese, and cotija cheese are naturally gluten-free as well. Just be sure any dipping accompaniments, like tortilla chips or veggies, also meet your dietary needs. Can I add more spice to my Baked Elote Dip? Very! If you love an extra kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix for more heat. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences for a dip that suits your palate perfectly. Enjoy the process of experimenting with flavors! Lightened-Up Baked Elote Dip That’s Perfect for Sharing This Baked Elote Dip is a lightened-up twist on a classic Mexican appetizer, combining creamy cheese, sweet corn, and spices for a guilt-free crowd-pleaser. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: MexicanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil6 whole Scallions, thinly sliced Reserve dark green parts for garnish16 ounces Frozen Corn Kernels Fresh corn can substitute (about 3 cups)1 teaspoon Tajin or Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Can substitute with chili powderFor the Creamy Mixture4 ounces ⅓-Less-Fat Cream Cheese Can use full-fat cream cheese¼ cup Light Sour Cream Greek yogurt is a great substitute7 ounces Cotija Cheese, grated Feta cheese works as an alternative Equipment 10-inch cast iron skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Elote DipPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and gather your ingredients and skillet for sautéing.In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium and sauté the white and light-green parts of the scallions for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.Add corn and Tajin to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the corn softens.Reduce the heat and stir in the cream cheese until incorporated, then fold in sour cream and Cotija cheese.Transfer to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned.Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is golden.Garnish with dark green scallion tops and cilantro, and serve immediately with tortilla chips or veggies. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesMonitor while broiling to prevent burning and ensure even heating. Use a cast iron skillet for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
