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Creamy Elote Street Corn Queso Fundido Dip with Pickled Jalapeños

creamy elote street corn queso fundido dip - featured image

A creamy, smoky, and spicy queso fundido dip inspired by Mexican street corn, featuring roasted corn, melty cheese, and tangy pickled jalapeños. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or late-night cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups fresh corn kernels (frozen works too)
  • 2 cups shredded Queso Oaxaca or Mozzarella cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • ¼ cup sliced pickled jalapeños
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat butter in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes. If using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry first.
  3. Add minced garlic to the skillet with corn and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese and Mexican crema (or sour cream). Stir until smooth and creamy.
  5. Fold shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper into the creamy base until evenly mixed.
  6. Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the roasted corn and garlic in the skillet. Stir gently to combine. Dot sliced pickled jalapeños across the top, reserving some for garnish.
  7. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
  8. Remove from oven and immediately squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and green onions for freshness and color.
  9. Serve warm with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or veggie sticks.

Notes

Use room temperature cheeses for better melting. Watch the oven closely to avoid burning the cheese. If dip is too dry, stir in a splash of milk or crema before baking. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and crema with coconut-based alternatives. Adjust jalapeños to control heat level.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote, street corn, queso fundido, dip, pickled jalapeños, creamy, cheesy, smoky, appetizer, party dip