Easy Traditional Corn Dip Recipe

Introduction

This easy traditional corn dip is a crowd-pleaser with a creamy blend of cheeses, sweet corn, and a touch of spice. Perfect for parties or a simple snack, you can enjoy it either cold or warm, depending on your mood.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the corn by cutting kernels off the cob if using fresh, draining and rinsing canned corn, or thawing and draining frozen corn.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended. If the cream cheese is firm, use a hand mixer to blend it creamy before adding the other ingredients.
3. Step 3: Stir in shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, then add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Step 4: Fold in the corn, chopped green onions, diced red bell pepper, jalapeño, and cilantro if using.
5. Step 5: To serve cold, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Garnish with extra green onions, cheese, or cilantro before serving.
6. Step 6: To serve hot, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra shredded cheese, and bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with crumbled bacon and fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder dip, remove seeds from the jalapeño before chopping.
• Add crumbled cooked bacon or diced cooked chicken for extra flavor and heartiness.
• Use pepper jack cheese only if you prefer a spicier dip, or substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste.
• If serving warm, try adding a breadcrumb topping for a crunchy finish.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the warm version in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. The cold dip can be served straight from the fridge.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, this dip can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to develop even more.

Can I use frozen corn without thawing?

It’s best to thaw and drain frozen corn before adding it to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dip watery.

Easy Traditional Corn Dip Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 89 reviews

This easy traditional corn dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining sweet corn with a blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and a mix of cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, it’s seasoned with flavorful spices and fresh vegetables. Serve it cold or baked hot for a bubbly, golden treat that everyone will love.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes (if baking)
• Total Time: 40 minutes (includes chilling time if serving cold)
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dip Base

• 2 cups sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened

Cheeses

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Vegetables and Garnishes

• ½ cup chopped green onions
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Additional shredded cheese (for topping, optional)
• Crumbled bacon (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob. For canned corn, drain and rinse it thoroughly. If using frozen corn, thaw completely and drain any excess moisture to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
2. Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese. Stir or use a hand mixer to blend these ingredients until smooth and well incorporated; this creates a creamy base for the dip.
3. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Fold in the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices and cheese flavors in the base.
4. Incorporate Vegetables: Gently fold in the prepared sweet corn, chopped green onions, diced red bell pepper, and finely chopped jalapeño. If using fresh cilantro, add it at this stage to enhance freshness and color.
5. Choose to Serve Cold or Hot: For a cold dip, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Garnish with extra green onions, cheese, or cilantro before serving. To serve hot, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the dip mixture to a baking dish, top with additional shredded cheese, and bake for 20–25 minutes until the dip is bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with crumbled bacon and fresh cilantro if desired before serving.

Notes

• For less heat, remove seeds from the jalapeño before chopping.
• You can use fresh, canned, or frozen corn depending on availability; just ensure proper draining to avoid excess moisture.
• Baking intensifies the flavors and adds a nice golden crust, but the dip is delicious served cold as well.
• Optional garnishes such as crumbled bacon and fresh cilantro add extra flavor and visual appeal.
• If cream cheese is too firm, soften it at room temperature or use a hand mixer before combining with other ingredients for a smoother texture.

Keywords: corn dip, cheesy dip, party appetizer, baked dip, cold dip, easy dip recipe, traditional corn dip