This Creamy Esquites Dip is what you make when you want something bold, creamy, cheesy, and just a little spicy. It’s like Mexican street corn turned into the dip of your dreams.
Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just when chips are calling your name. I’ve made this so many times—it always disappears fast. It’s creamy, crunchy, tangy, and warm. You’re gonna love it.
🍴 What You’ll Need
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp chili powder (plus extra for topping)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt to taste
- Optional: diced jalapeño or hot sauce for spice
💛 Why I Love This Recipe
This dip reminds me of summer nights and street food in Mexico. The first time I had esquites from a street cart, it totally changed the way I thought about corn. I wanted to turn that same flavor into a warm dip. And it worked. It’s always a hit, and here’s why:
- Melty, creamy, and cheesy with just enough crunch
- Comes together fast—about 15 minutes!
- Tastes amazing warm or room temp
- You can customize the spice level
🍽 Servings + Cook Time
- Serves: 6–8 as a dip
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Corn has natural sugars that caramelize when you sauté it. That gives it that deep, roasted flavor. The mayo and sour cream bring the creaminess while balancing out the acid from lime. The Cotija is salty and crumbly, and the mozzarella adds that gooey melt factor.
🍽 Meal Plan Ideas
- Add leftover dip to tacos or burritos
- Use it as a topping for grilled chicken
- Stir it into rice for a quick side
- Spread on toast or crostini for a snack
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Not drying the corn: If it’s too wet, it won’t caramelize.
- Too much mayo: Stick to the measurements or it gets gloopy.
- Undercooking the corn: Let it brown a bit for the best flavor.
- Too much cheese on top: It can get oily if you overdo it.
🔧 Tools You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Lime squeezer (optional)
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- No Cotija? Use feta or queso fresco.
- Don’t like mayo? Try Greek yogurt.
- Want it spicier? Add diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce.
- Dairy-free? Use vegan mayo and cheese.
⏱ Make Ahead Tips
You can make this dip ahead, cover, and reheat before serving. Just hold off on the final cheese topping until you’re ready to bake or broil.
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Corn
Melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 4 cups of corn kernels and cook until they get a little char—about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayo, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp chili powder, juice of 1 lime, and salt to taste.
Step 3: Add Cheese & Corn
Add the sautéed corn to the bowl, then stir in 3/4 cup Cotija cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro. Mix it all together.
Step 4: Heat It Up
Transfer the dip to a small baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup Cotija and extra chili powder. Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until warm and melty.
Step 5: Serve!
Top with more cilantro, lime wedges, and dig in with tortilla chips.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm. Stir before serving again.
🧠 Nutrition (per serving – approx. 1/2 cup)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
🍽 What to Serve With
- Tortilla chips (classic!)
- Warm flour or corn tortillas
- Grilled meats (like carne asada or chicken)
- As a topping for nachos or rice bowls
❓ FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Mix everything and refrigerate. Just bake right before serving.
Can I use canned corn?
Yep! Just drain it well and dry it before sautéing so it browns.
What if I don’t have Cotija?
Feta is a great substitute—it’s salty and crumbly too.
Can I make it in the microwave?
You can heat it up that way, but it won’t get as bubbly or golden.
🥄 Final Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for a bold, creamy, warm dip to wow your people—this is it. Once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again. If you give it a go, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment below with your thoughts or any questions—I’m here for it. 💛