Description
This Easy Traditional Corn Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer that combines sweet corn with a blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheeses, seasoned with smoked paprika and chili powder. Perfectly suited for serving cold or baked hot to a bubbly golden finish, this versatile dip is ideal for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Main 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
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 when baking (optional)
- Crumbled bacon and fresh cilantro for garnish when serving hot (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Corn: If using fresh corn, cut kernels off the cob. For canned corn, drain and rinse to remove excess liquid. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain any extra moisture to avoid a watery dip.
- Mix Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended. If your cream cheese is too firm, use a hand mixer to blend it until creamy for a uniform texture.
- Add Cheese and Spices: Stir in shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. Then incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing until evenly distributed.
- Fold in Vegetables: Gently fold in the prepared corn, chopped green onions, diced red bell pepper, and chopped jalapeño. If using cilantro, add it now and mix lightly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve Cold Option: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, garnish with additional green onions, shredded cheese, or cilantro as desired.
- Serve Hot Option: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and has a golden crust. Garnish with crumbled bacon and fresh cilantro before serving warm.
Notes
- You may use fresh, canned, or frozen corn depending on availability and preference—ensure it’s well drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Adjust the spiciness by removing jalapeño seeds or reducing chili powder.
- For a richer flavor, substitute some sour cream with Greek yogurt or add some crumbled cooked bacon into the dip mixture.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.
- Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetable sticks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (if baking)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
