This creamy corn dip is a crowd-pleaser with its rich cream cheese base and sweet corn. It’s perfect for parties, snack time, or even just a cozy night in!
You can’t help but munch on it with chips or veggies. I may have eaten it straight from the bowl—no judgment here! 😄 Making it is as easy as mixing a few ingredients together. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the key ingredient giving the dip its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still tastes great!
Sour Cream: Adds a delightful tangy flavor. Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for a healthier twist that maintains creaminess.
Corn: Canned corn is super convenient, but if you have fresh corn, it’s even sweeter. You could also use frozen corn—just thaw it first!
Cheese: I love using shredded cheddar. For a boost in flavor, try a Mexican blend or pepper jack for some heat. If you’re dairy-free, there are great vegan cheeses available too!
Jalapeño: If you’re sensitive to spice, skip it! Instead, try bell peppers for flavor without the heat. For more heat, use more jalapeños or even diced habaneros.
How Do I Ensure My Dip is Extra Creamy?
Getting that creamy texture requires a little attention while mixing. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your cream cheese is very soft—leave it out for at least 30 minutes before mixing.
- Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend the cream cheese and sour cream until super smooth. This prevents lumps.
- Mix until just combined with the rest of the ingredients; over-mixing can make it thick.
- Baking until the dip is bubbling also helps create a creamy, melty texture!
How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained (or 1 ½ cups fresh/frozen corn)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, followed by 20-25 minutes of baking. In total, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes to enjoy this delicious dip. It’s quick to whip up, and the bake time gives you just enough time to gather your teams for game day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your dip bakes evenly and gets nice and bubbly!
2. Mix Cream Cheese and Sour Cream:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Use a hand mixer or whisk to mix them together until smooth and creamy. This is the base of your dip, so it’s important to mix well!
3. Combine All Ingredients:
Add in the drained corn, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently stir the mixture until everything is well combined. Make sure the corn and cheese are evenly distributed.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a small cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it bakes nicely.
5. Bake the Dip:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dip is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll want to dig right in!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the dip from the oven. Top it with sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a pop of color. This garnish not only looks pretty but also adds extra flavor!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the warm dip with tortilla chips or your favorite dippers. Watch it disappear as everyone dives in for a taste of this creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy delight. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in!
Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Canned Corn?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh corn, you can use 1 ½ cups of cooked corn kernels. Just boil or sauté the corn for a few minutes until tender, then drain and add it to your dip mixture.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you want more heat, consider adding more sliced jalapeños or even some diced serrano peppers. You could also mix in a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mix for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Dip in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day ahead! Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, bake it in the oven as directed, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until hot throughout. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally.