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Creamy Grilled Elote Corn Dip Recipe with Tajín Chips

creamy grilled elote corn dip - featured image

A smoky, creamy, and spicy Mexican street corn-inspired dip served with Tajín-dusted tortilla chips. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, this dip combines grilled corn, cotija cheese, and a tangy lime kick.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn, husked and kernels removed
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons Tajín seasoning for dusting chips
  • 1 teaspoon Tajín seasoning for mixing in dip
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 bag tortilla chips (thick, sturdy)

Instructions

  1. Remove husks and silk from the 4 fresh ears of corn. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the kernels from the cob, yielding about 3 cups of kernels. If using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry before this step.
  2. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Toss corn kernels in a light coating of olive oil and spread on grill or pan. Cook 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until kernels develop a golden char and smoky aroma. Avoid burning.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
  4. Stir in minced garlic, chopped jalapeño (if using), 1 teaspoon Tajín seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Add grilled corn kernels and crumbled cotija cheese to the bowl. Gently fold until evenly mixed, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Stir in chopped cilantro for freshness.
  7. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Sprinkle evenly with 2 teaspoons Tajín seasoning and toss gently to coat. Optionally, warm chips in a 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes to toast seasoning.
  8. Transfer dip to a serving bowl and serve alongside Tajín-dusted chips. Best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated up to 2 days.

Notes

For a smoother dip, pulse grilled corn briefly in a food processor before mixing. Use vegan mayo and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. Dust chips with Tajín just before serving to keep them crisp. Grilling the corn adds essential smoky flavor that canned or boiled corn lacks.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled elote, corn dip, Tajín chips, Mexican street corn, creamy dip, party appetizer, smoky dip