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Creamy Elote Dip Recipe with Spicy Jalapeño Crema for Easy Entertaining

creamy elote dip - featured image

A creamy, smoky, and tangy elote dip featuring roasted fresh corn and a spicy jalapeño crema, perfect for casual gatherings and easy entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 45 ears)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 large jalapeño, roasted and seeded if milder heat desired
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s recommended)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add fresh corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown spots and slight char appear, about 7-8 minutes.
  2. Add the jalapeño to the skillet in the last 3-4 minutes of roasting, turning occasionally until the skin is blistered and charred.
  3. Allow the jalapeño to cool slightly, then remove seeds if a milder heat is preferred.
  4. In a food processor, combine the roasted jalapeño, sour cream, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed and set aside.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine the roasted corn, mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, chipotle powder (if using), chopped cilantro, and a pinch of pepper. Stir gently to maintain a chunky, creamy texture.
  6. Fold about two-thirds of the jalapeño crema into the corn mixture. Reserve the remaining crema for drizzling or serving on the side.
  7. Cover and refrigerate the dip for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
  8. Before serving, stir gently, drizzle with remaining jalapeño crema, and garnish with extra cotija cheese and cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips, sliced veggies, or toasted pita wedges.

Notes

Roasting the corn and jalapeño is essential for smoky flavor. Adjust jalapeño seeds to control heat. If dip is too thick after chilling, stir in a splash of milk or lime juice to loosen. Can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours; flavors deepen overnight. For dairy-free, substitute sour cream and cotija with vegan alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote dip, creamy corn dip, jalapeño crema, party dip, easy appetizer, Mexican dip, roasted corn dip, spicy dip