Air Fryer Elote Dip

Air-Fryer Mexican Corn Dip—I will never forget the first time I tried air-fried Mexican corn dip. It was the most fantastic thing I have ever put in my mouth! The heat from the air fryer perfectly melts the cheese and creates a crispy texture. This recipe is easy to make—you only need a few ingredients!

It’s officially summer, meaning it’s time to break out of the grill! This recipe is perfect for your next BBQ because you can make it in an air fryer.

This dip has all your favorite Mexican flavors, like cheese, sour cream, tomatoes, green chilies, and more. It only takes about 15 minutes to whip up this delicious appetizer or snack. If you’re looking for a quick fix for those hot days ahead, this Mexican Corn Dip should be just what you need!

If you love easy air fryer dip recipes, try my recipe for Dipping Sauce For Fried Pickles, Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil, or Jalapeno Cranberry Dip.

How to Make Air Fryer Elote Dip

Easy Mexican Corn Dip

If you love Mexican food, chances are you’ve tried Mexican corn dip.

Mexican corn dip is a delicious appetizer that’s great for parties. It contains sour cream, mayonnaise, chili powder, and cumin. You can serve Mexican corn dip with chips or fresh vegetables as a healthy alternative to other dips, such as cheese or ranch, which are often high in fat and calories. This easy-to-make recipe will prepare you to serve the party in no time!

Why This Recipe Works!

This recipe is perfect for the beginning air fryer cook because it is simple, easy to follow, and makes for a quick snack or appetizer.

It also has only a few steps, so you can easily follow along. The ingredients are inexpensive and easy to find in most grocery stores. This recipe only takes 5 minutes to prepare, making it great for weeknights when you want something fast but delicious!

And, of course, it’s delicious!

Ingredients Needed For Corn Dip

Elevate your appetizer game with this irresistible Air Fryer Mexican Corn Dip, a creamy, spicy, and utterly addictive dish that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Corn Kernels: Cooked corn offers a sweet, juicy base.
• Roasted Chilies: Adds a vibrant heat that you can adjust to taste.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone of this dip adds a smooth texture and rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream introduces a tangy twist, enhancing the dip’s overall richness and balance.
• Chile Powder: Gives the dip a smoky undertone, enhancing its Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings a hint of garlicky warmth, rounding out the flavors with its aromatic presence.
• Salt and Black Pepper: For added flavor, adjust to taste.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal freshness, garnishing the dip with color and flavor.
• Cotija cheese and Shredded Mexican Cheese: A generous sprinkle of cheese, like crumbly Cotija or shredded Cheddar, melts beautifully, adding a gooey texture and salty tang.

How To Make Air Fryer Elote Dip

Follow the step-by-step directions:

Step 1: Start by warming the corn kernels in a small saucepan or the microwave until warm. Drain the corn, if needed. In a large bowl, mix the ingredients, reserving 1/2 cup of the Cotija Cheese and 1 cup of Mexican Cheese.

Step 2: Pour the dip into your baking pan and set the temperature to 330 degrees F. Set cook time for 5-8 minutes, mixing about halfway through.

Step 3: Top with the rest of the Mexican cheese and Cotija Cheese, serve with fresh cilantro!

Air Fryer Elote Dip Recipe Tips

• Roast Corn for Extra Flavor: Air fry the corn until it’s slightly charred to mimic traditional elote. Brush the corn with oil or butter before placing it in the air fryer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway for even cooking.
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh corn if possible for a vibrant flavor. Frozen or canned corn can be used, but fresh corn gives the best taste and texture.
• Add a Smoky Kick: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder to give your dip a subtle smoky heat. You can also air fry jalapeños with the corn for added spice.
• Cheese Options: Traditional elote calls for cotija cheese, but you can substitute it with feta or queso fresco if necessary. Adding a bit of cream cheese can give the dip extra creaminess.
• Use Mayo and Sour Cream: The classic elote flavor comes from a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream. Mix them for the perfect balance of creaminess and tang.
• Garnish Last: Add lime juice, cilantro, chili powder, and crumbled cheese right before serving to maintain their fresh flavors and textures.
• Serve Warm: Elote dip tastes best when served warm. After combining the ingredients, return the dip to the air fryer for a few minutes to heat everything through.
• Pairing Ideas: Serve with tortilla chips, pita bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Recipe Variations

Today, I will discuss how to make a healthier version of corn dip. It’s one of those foods everyone loves, whether they’re dieting or not, but it doesn’t have to be bad for you!

Let me show you how we can make this classic crowd-pleaser without all the guilt. With a few substitutions, you can lighten this dip up. Here are some suggestions.

• Mayonnaise: Use light Mayonnaise, such as Kraft Light Mayonnaise or Hellmann’s Light Mayonnaise; you cannot tell the difference. The flavor will remain the same.
• Sour Dream: You can use light sour cream or Greek yogurt. Do not use regular yogurt; it is thinner and will thin your dip.
• Cheese: Use light Mexican or light Cotija Cheese. The flavor of the corn dip will not differ.

Air Fryer Elote Dip Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen or canned corn for this dip? Yes, you can use frozen or canned corn, but for the best flavor and texture, fresh corn is ideal. If using frozen, thaw and pat it dry before air frying. For canned corn, drain and dry it to ensure it roasts well.

Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dip a few hours in advance. However, add the fresh garnishes like cilantro, cheese, and lime juice just before serving to maintain their flavors.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese? If you can’t find cotija cheese, you can use feta cheese or queso fresco for a similar salty and tangy flavor. For a creamier dip, mix in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream.

How can I make this dip spicier? Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or smoked chipotle powder for extra heat. You can also air fry jalapeños along with the corn for added spiciness and flavor.

Can I make this dip without mayonnaise? Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a vegan mayo alternative if you prefer. The flavor will slightly change, but it will still be creamy and delicious.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftover elote dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer or microwave before serving.

Can I make a vegan version of this dip? Yes! Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or plant-based yogurt and use a vegan cheese alternative for cotija, such as cashew-based cheese. Ensure all ingredients align with your dietary preferences.

What should I serve with Elote Dip? Serve it with tortilla chips, pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers for dipping.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER HOMEMADE PIZZA ROLLS
• AIR FRYER LOADED POTATO CHIPS
• EASY AIR FRYER COPYCAT PANERA PEPPERONI FLATBREAD
• AIR FRYER BAKED FONTINA CHEESE DIP
• AIR FRYER SWEET POTATO NOODLES

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