Cheesy Hot Corn Dip is a creamy, indulgent appetizer that’s loaded with sweet corn, melted cheese, and a blend of spices, all baked to bubbly perfection. This dip combines cream cheese, sour cream, and a mix of shredded cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack, creating a rich, gooey texture that’s impossible to resist. The addition of diced jalapeños or green chilies gives it a subtle kick, while fresh cilantro or green onions add a burst of freshness.
I first made this dip for a potluck, and it disappeared within minutes! The sweet corn provides a delightful contrast to the savory, cheesy base, while the golden-brown, bubbly top is the perfect invitation to dig in. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—you can make it spicier with more chilies, add crumbled beef bacon for extra richness, or even stir in some roasted red peppers for added flavor. Whether served with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies, Cheesy Hot Corn Dip is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleasing favorite!
Perfect for:
- Game days
- Potlucks
- Barbecues
- Holiday gatherings
- Cheese lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Cheesy Hot Corn Dip will become your go-to party dish:
- Cheesy Goodness: The blend of creamy cheese and the irresistible gooey texture makes every bite a dream.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a mouthwatering dip that everyone will love.
- Savory with a Kick: The combination of spices and jalapeños adds a nice heat that balances the creamy cheese.
- Creamy and Indulgent: The sour cream and mayonnaise create a rich base that’s perfectly paired with the sweet corn.
- Perfect for Sharing: This dip is ideal for scooping and sharing with friends and family at your next gathering.
- Baked to Perfection: The dip gets golden and bubbly in the oven, creating a crispy top layer that’s impossible to resist.
- Versatile Dip: Serve it with chips, crackers, or even fresh veggies for a variety of ways to enjoy.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have this dip ready to bake in just minutes.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dip can be made in advance and baked right before serving for easy party prep.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 22g, Fat: 20g
Ingredients
For the Dip:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled beef bacon
- Extra shredded cheese
Ingredient Highlights
- Corn: Provides a touch of sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Jalapeños: Add a burst of heat for those who love a little spice.
- Creamy Base: The mayo and sour cream ensure the dip remains smooth and indulgent.
- Shredded Cheeses: A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella offers both flavor and meltability.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dip:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (such as a 9×9-inch) with cooking spray.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the corn, green chilies, both cheeses, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and chopped jalapeños (if using).
- Stir Together: Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Bake the Dip:
- Transfer to Dish: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions or crumbled beef bacon, if desired. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Cheesy Hot Corn Dip:
- With Tortilla Chips: The classic way to serve, perfect for dipping.
- With Crackers: Pair with your favorite crackers for a crunchy contrast.
- For Taco Night: Serve alongside tacos for an extra cheesy side dish.
- As a Party Appetizer: Place in the center of your party spread for easy scooping.
- With Fresh Veggies: Serve with sliced bell peppers or cucumber for a healthier dip option.
- With Pita Chips: Perfect for dipping into the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- For Game Day: A touchdown of flavor for your next big game watch.
- As a Side Dish: Serve with grilled chicken or steak for a cheesy, comforting side.
- As a Party Snack: Great for casual parties, barbecues, or gatherings.
- As a Make-Ahead Option: Prepare and refrigerate before baking for easy prep ahead of time.
Additional Tips
- Customize the Spice: Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your preferred spice level.
- Make It Smoky: Add a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor boost.
- Cheese Variations: Swap the mozzarella for another cheese like Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.
- Keep Warm: If serving at a party, keep the dip warm in a slow cooker for easy dipping throughout the event.
- Double the Recipe: Make extra if you’re serving a large crowd, as this dip goes fast!
Recipe Variations
- Beef Bacon and Cheddar Corn Dip: Add crumbled beef bacon to the dip for a savory crunch.
- Spicy Corn Dip: Increase the heat by adding extra jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit any meat and use additional vegetables like bell peppers or onions.
- Lighter Version: Use light mayo and sour cream for a slightly lower-fat alternative.
- Cream Cheese Base: Swap out the mayo and sour cream for a creamy cream cheese base for a thicker dip.
- Mexican Corn Dip: Add a spoonful of salsa or chopped cilantro for a fresh twist.
Special Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl – For combining all the ingredients together.
- Baking Dish (9×13 or similar) – To bake the dip in the oven.
- Can Opener – For opening canned ingredients like corn and chilies.
- Spatula – To mix ingredients and spread the dip evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Sharp Knife – For chopping any fresh ingredients (such as onions or jalapeños).
- Cutting Board – To safely chop ingredients.
- Oven Mitts – To handle the hot baking dish after it’s done cooking.
- Grater – For shredding cheese to melt easily into the dip.
- Serving Spoon – For scooping and serving the finished dip.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes, frozen corn works well—just thaw and drain before using. - How long does this dip last in the fridge?
The dip can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze the dip?
Freezing isn’t recommended as the texture may change once thawed. - Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip and refrigerate it before baking for up to 24 hours. - What can I use instead of jalapeños for heat?
You can use a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped green chilies for a milder heat. - Can I use light cheese?
Yes, feel free to use reduced-fat versions of the cheeses if preferred. - Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until bubbly. - What can I serve with this dip?
Tortilla chips, crackers, veggies, or even nacho chips are great options. - Can I skip the mayo or sour cream?
You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. - What’s the best way to reheat the dip?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hot Corn Dip is a creamy, savory, and irresistibly cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game days, or as a comforting snack. This dip combines sweet corn with a blend of creamy cheeses, zesty seasonings, and a touch of spice, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or fresh veggies.
To make this dish, mix together canned or fresh corn, cream cheese, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, sour cream, and a dash of spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne for heat. For extra flavor, add diced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or crumbled beef bacon. Bake the mixture until bubbly and lightly golden on top, then garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
This dip is easy to customize—swap in pepper jack cheese for more spice or add roasted red peppers for a smoky twist. Serve it straight from the oven for that perfect hot and gooey texture that everyone will love.
I can’t wait to see how your Cheesy Hot Corn Dip turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your creamy, cheesy creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!