Introduction to Baked Elote Dip
Baked elote dip is a modern twist on the classic Mexican street food, elote, which features grilled corn slathered in creamy, spicy goodness. If you're a homemade food lover looking to impress your friends at your next gathering, this deliciously cheesy dip is a must-try. It's rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to whip up, making it an ideal appetizer for any occasion.
Why baked elote dip is a must-try for homemade food lovers?
Baked elote dip manages to combine the classic flavors of fresh corn, tangy lime, and savory spices into a shared delight that beckons everyone to the table. The gooey nature of the dip, thanks to cream cheese and Cotija cheese, will make your taste buds dance with joy.
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, this dip comes together quickly. Even beginner cooks can shine in the kitchen with this straightforward recipe.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether paired with tortilla chips, veggie sticks, or slathered on a toasted baguette, this dip fits into any type of gathering—game nights, potlucks, or spontaneous get-togethers.
For more delicious Mexican recipes, check out this comprehensive guide on popular Mexican dishes or explore some creative ways to elevate your appetizers to ensure your next event is a hit!
Ingredients for Baked Elote Dip
When it comes to creating the ultimate baked elote dip, having the right ingredients is essential for that delicious, cheesy goodness. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this crowd-pleaser:
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil: This adds a lovely richness and helps to sauté your veggies.
- 6 whole scallions: Slice them up, keeping the dark green part separate for garnish. They bring a mild onion flavor that complements the corn perfectly.
- 16 ounces frozen corn kernels or 3 cups fresh: The star of the dish! Roasted corn adds a wonderful sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Tajin or Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend: A little spice goes a long way in enhancing the flavor!
- 4 ounces ⅓-less-fat cream cheese: The creaminess binds everything together.
- ¼ cup light sour cream: For that velvety texture and tangy taste.
- 7 ounces Cotija cheese, grated (about 1¾ cups): This crumbly cheese is a must-have for an authentic flavor.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Sprinkle on top for a fresh finish!
These ingredients will transform into a mouthwatering dip that’s perfect for sharing! Ready to get started? Let's go! For more tips on creative appetizers, check out Skinnytaste Simple by Gina Homolka.
Preparing Baked Elote Dip
Making the perfect baked elote dip is an absolute joy, and I've got you covered with a simple step-by-step guide! This creamy, cheesy delight will impress your friends at the next gathering or give you the ultimate excuse for a cozy night in with a binge-watch session. Let’s dive right into the preparation!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we start, take a moment to ensure you have all the ingredients on hand. This recipe calls for:
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- 6 whole scallions, thinly sliced (keep the dark green portions aside for garnish)
- 16 ounces frozen corn kernels (or 3 cups of fresh corn)
- 1 teaspoon Tajin or Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend
- 4 ounces ⅓-less-fat cream cheese
- ¼ cup light sour cream
- 7 ounces Cotija cheese, grated (about 1¾ cups)
- Chopped fresh cilantro for that finishing touch
Having everything in one place will keep you organized and make the cooking process much smoother!
Sauté the Scallions
Grab a 10-inch ovenproof or cast iron skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. You'll want to toss in the sliced scallion whites and light greens, along with a pinch of kosher salt. Sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Pro tip: This is a great time to enjoy the delightful aroma of your fresh ingredients wafting in the air!
Mix in the Corn and Seasoning
Next up, stir in that lovely corn and your chosen seasoning. Continue cooking for around 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the corn to soften slightly. This step brings out the sweetness of the corn and enhances the overall flavor of your baked elote dip. Have you ever tried fresh corn? It's a game-changer!
Incorporate the Creamy Ingredients
Now it's time to turn up the creamy factor! Lower the heat and fold in the cream cheese until it's completely melted and incorporated into the mixture. Follow this with the light sour cream and ¾ cup of grated Cotija cheese. The combination will create a rich, smooth base that you’ll never want to be without.
Bake and Broil for That Perfect Finish
It’s nearly time to indulge! Transfer your skillet to the oven and bake at 350°F for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges start bubbling and turning golden brown. For that delightful crispy top, switch to broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes—but watch it closely to prevent burning! Once done, remove and sprinkle the reserved scallion greens and freshly chopped cilantro for an added pop of flavor. Serve immediately, and prepare for compliments to roll in!
If you're eager to take your appetizer game to the next level, consider pairing this baked elote dip with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even a warm baguette. Enjoy!
Variations on Baked Elote Dip
Spicy Baked Elote Dip
If you love a kick in your dish, this spicy baked elote dip variation is perfect for you! Simply add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce while mixing in the corn. If you want to ramp up the heat even more, consider using pepper jack cheese instead of Cotija. This version pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or fresh veggies—ideal for your next game night!
Baked Elote Dip with Added Veggies
Looking to sneak in some extra nutrients? You can elevate your baked elote dip by tossing in some finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even black beans. Not only will this variation add a colorful twist, but it’ll also enhance the texture and flavor. Plus, you can use this heartier dip as a topping for grilled chicken or as a base for a flavorful quesadilla!
For more inspiration, check out this Healthy Mexican Recipes collection for additional ways to enjoy Mexican flavors.
Cooking tips and notes for Baked Elote Dip
Baked Elote Dip is a delightful twist on classic street corn, perfect for gatherings! Here are some friendly tips to elevate your dip:
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Cheese Variety: If Cotija isn’t available, Feta cheese makes a great substitute. It provides a similar salty, tangy flavor.
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Fresh Corn vs. Frozen: While frozen corn is a convenient choice, using fresh corn on the cob can enhance the dip’s flavor and texture. You can get more crunch by grilling the corn beforehand!
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Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the mix ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake before serving to enjoy that ooey-gooey goodness!
For more tips and similar recipes, check out Skinnytaste or explore local Mexican cuisines.
Serving suggestions for Baked Elote Dip
When diving into your delicious baked elote dip, consider serving it warm with a variety of dippers to cater to your guests' tastes. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your experience:
- Chips and Crackers: Tortilla chips are a classic choice, but why not try pita chips or whole-grain crackers for a balanced snack?
- Veggie Platter: Fresh veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and cucumber slices offer a crunchy, healthy alternative.
- Grain Bowls: Use your dip as a topping for quinoa or rice bowls, adding a creamy, flavorful twist.
- Taco Night: Incorporate the dip into your taco night by using it as a filling or a topping for a fun new spin.
Don’t forget to garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of Tajin for an extra pop of flavor! For more delicious serving ideas and variations, check out this recipe guide.
Time breakdown for Baked Elote Dip
Preparation time
This scrumptious Baked Elote Dip requires just 25 minutes of prep work. You’ll slice scallions, measure out ingredients, and get everything ready to create this delightful, cheesy sensation!
Cooking time
Once you’ve prepped, cooking is super quick! The actual cooking time is approximately 20 minutes. You’ll enjoy seeing the dip bubble and brown to perfection in the oven.
Total time
In total, you're looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. With minimal effort, you’ll have a mouthwatering appetizer to wow your friends and family! Enjoy it with tortilla chips for a delicious snack or party treat.
For more tips on dips, check out this guide on how to serve cheese dips and elevate your appetizer game!
Nutritional Facts for Baked Elote Dip
When diving into the deliciousness of baked elote dip, it's essential to understand what you're consuming. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional value per serving (⅓ cup):
Calories
- Each serving of this delightful dip contains 132 calories, making it a tasty yet manageable choice for your appetizer table.
Protein
- With 6 grams of protein per serving, this dip not only satisfies cravings but also provides a little boost to your protein intake, ideal for a balanced snack.
Sodium
- At 272 mg of sodium, it's a good idea to pair this dip with low-sodium chips or veggies to keep your snack time delicious without overloading on sodium.
Baked elote dip is a great option for gatherings, combining flavor with nutritional awareness. Check out Healthline, Nutrition.gov, and USDA for even more insights into healthier eating habits!
FAQs about Baked Elote Dip
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen for baked elote dip?
Absolutely! Fresh corn is a great option for baked elote dip. You'll need about 3 cups of fresh corn kernels. Just cut them off the cob and sauté them like you would with frozen corn. Fresh corn can add a delicious crunch and sweetness to your dip, making it even more enjoyable.
How can I make my dip spicier?
If you're looking to bring some heat to your baked elote dip, there are plenty of ways to do this! Consider adding:
- Chili powder or cayenne pepper to the corn mixture.
- A few dashes of hot sauce stirred in before baking.
- Diced jalapeños for that fresh, spicy kick.
You can adjust the heat level to suit your taste!
Is there a way to make this dip lighter?
Certainly! If you're keen on making a lighter version of your baked elote dip, try these swaps:
- Use non-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein boost.
- Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese to cut down on calories.
- Explore dairy-free cheese options if you're seeking a vegan alternative.
These small changes can help you enjoy this cheesy dip guilt-free without compromising on flavor!
Conclusion on Baked Elote Dip
In summary, this baked elote dip is a must-try for your next gathering! With its cheesy goodness and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a game night or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this dip will elevate your appetizer game to new heights. Enjoy!
Baked Elote Dip
Equipment
- 10-inch ovenproof skillet
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- 6 whole scallions, thinly sliced dark green portion kept separate
- 16 ounces frozen corn kernels (or 3 cups fresh)
- 1 teaspoon Tajin or Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend
- 4 ounces ⅓-less-fat cream cheese
- ¼ cup light sour cream
- 7 ounces Cotija cheese, grated (1¾ cups)
- chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Adjust an oven rack in the center and another 6-inches from the broiler, and preheat to 350℉.
- In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet or cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Set aside 2 tablespoons of the scallion greens for garnish. Add the white and light-green parts to the skillet along with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and cook until softened, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the corn and seasoning. Continue to saute until the corn starts to soften, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the cream cheese and stir until it is fully incorporated.
- Remove the pan from heat and fold in the sour cream along with ¾ cup of the Cotija. Transfer to the oven and bake until the edges start to bubble and brown, 10 to 12 minutes.
- Carefully remove the pan from the oven and preheat the broiler. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheese over the top and transfer to the rack under the broiler. Broil until browned (watch carefully so it doesn't burn), 2 to 3 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the reserved scallion greens and some cilantro over the top. Serve immediately.
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