Street Corn Queso Clara quick dinners

Street Corn Queso is a rich, creamy dip that blends the bold flavors of classic Mexican street corn (Elote) with the gooey goodness of queso. Bursting with sweet corn, zesty lime, chili, and melty cheese, this dip is perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you’re craving something bold, cheesy, and unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This queso takes everything you love about elote—roasted corn, chili spice, lime, and cotija—and folds it into a hot, melty cheese dip. It’s quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and full of layered flavors that are both smoky and tangy. Serve it with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or drizzle it over tacos—however you enjoy it, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned; grilled or roasted preferred)
• Butter or olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Jalapeño (seeded and diced)
• Cream cheese
• Evaporated milk or heavy cream
• Shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Lime juice
• Chili powder or Tajín
• Cotija cheese (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
• Optional: hot sauce or diced red onion for extra flavor

directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter or heat oil. Sauté garlic and jalapeño for 12 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add corn and cook until lightly charred, about 57 minutes (if using canned or frozen corn, drain well before cooking).
3. Stir in cream cheese and evaporated milk until melted and smooth.
4. Add shredded cheeses and stir until fully melted and combined.
5. Stir in lime juice, chili powder, and salt to taste.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl or small cast iron skillet. Top with cotija, cilantro, and a sprinkle of extra chili powder.
7. Serve hot with tortilla chips, toasted bread, or fresh veggies.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1015 minutes
Total time: 2025 minutes
Servings: 68 servings

Variations

• Spicy version: Add diced serrano peppers or a splash of hot sauce.
• Meaty option: Stir in cooked chorizo or crumbled bacon.
• Lighter version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese.
• Make it smoky: Use grilled corn and add a pinch of smoked paprika.
• Tex-Mex twist: Add black beans and diced tomatoes for more texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen if needed.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen corn?

Yes, both work great. Just be sure to drain well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

What cheeses work best for queso?

Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, cheddar, and cream cheese are all great. Use a blend for flavor and meltability.

Is this dip spicy?

It has mild heat from jalapeño and chili powder. Adjust spice level to your taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it up to a day in advance and reheat before serving.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Serve hot with tortilla chips, or use as a topping for tacos, nachos, or baked potatoes.

Can I use fresh corn on the cob?

Absolutely! Grilled corn on the cob gives the best flavor—cut the kernels off and proceed with the recipe.

Is cotija cheese necessary?

It adds a salty, crumbly finish, but you can substitute with feta or leave it out.

Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine ingredients and heat on low until melted and warm, stirring occasionally.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian. Just avoid adding meats like chorizo or bacon.

How do I thicken the queso if it’s too runny?

Simmer longer to reduce, or add more shredded cheese for a thicker texture.

Conclusion

Street Corn Queso is the ultimate dip for cheese lovers who want bold flavor in every bite. With its creamy texture, smoky corn, tangy lime, and savory chili spice, it’s the perfect fusion of two crowd favorites: queso and elote. Easy to make and even easier to love, this cheesy dip will be the star of any snack spread or party table.

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