If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, look no further than Hot Corn Dip. This rich, creamy, cheesy dip bursts with the sweetness of corn, a slight kick from green chilies, and an irresistible golden top when fresh from the oven. Whether you’re hosting game night, a holiday gathering, or just cozying up on the weekend, Hot Corn Dip is a surefire way to steal the show and have everyone reaching for more chips.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Hot Corn Dip is how it transforms a handful of familiar ingredients into something truly magical. Each component adds its own pop of flavor, creaminess, or color, coming together for an appetizer that’s both simple to make and completely satisfying.
- Corn kernels: Sweet, juicy corn delivers the heart of this dip; use fresh, canned (drained), or frozen (thawed) for convenience.
- Cream cheese (softened): Creamy and rich, it forms the luscious base that holds the dip together.
- Sour cream: Adds tang and extra silkiness, making the dip extra scoopable.
- Mayonnaise: A subtle addition that brings everything together, adding depth and body.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, sharp perfection for those signature cheesy pulls.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Mild and creamy, it balances the sharper cheddar with a smooth melt.
- Chopped green onions: Freshness, a gentle bite, and a hint of color brighten every bite.
- Diced green chilies (drained): These deliver mellow heat plus great texture; opt for mild or hot as you like!
- Garlic powder: Adds warmth and savoriness without overpowering.
- Onion powder: Rounds out the flavors for that extra homey touch.
- Smoked paprika: A hint of smokiness makes this dip unmistakably addictive.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to bring all the flavors into harmony; season to taste.
- Chopped cilantro or green onions (for garnish): Lively fresh green on top makes this Hot Corn Dip almost too pretty to eat (almost!).
How to Make Hot Corn Dip
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s hot and ready when you are. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Give it a good stir until the mixture is completely smooth. This trio creates a creamy, luscious base that makes Hot Corn Dip so comforting and rich.
Step 2: Fold in the Flavors
Add the corn kernels, shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, green onions, diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well incorporated. Every spoonful should look like a colorful, chunky, creamy party—if it tastes good now, it’ll taste even better once it’s baked!
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer that glorious mixture into a baking dish—an 8×8 inch works well, but anything similar is fine. Spread it into an even layer and pop it in the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the Hot Corn Dip is hot and bubbling, with the edges turning a beautiful golden brown. Resist the urge to dig in immediately—let it rest just a few minutes so it thickens slightly and becomes even more scoopable.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro or extra green onions over the top. These add color and a pop of fresh flavor for a finishing touch. Now you’re ready to dive in with tortilla chips, crackers, or crunchy veggies.
How to Serve Hot Corn Dip
Garnishes
For that signature final flourish, scatter freshly chopped cilantro or sliced green onions on top of your Hot Corn Dip. If you love extra heat, add a few thin jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce just before serving. Not only does this boost flavor, but it also adds a little wow factor to your table.
Side Dishes
Hot Corn Dip is a showstopper on any party spread. It pairs beautifully with sturdy tortilla chips, crisp crostini, crunchy crackers, or an array of dippable veggies like sweet bell peppers and cucumber rounds. You can even scoop it onto baked potatoes or grilled bread for an extra indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Serve your Hot Corn Dip in mini ramekins for individual portions, or hollow out a big bread loaf to create a dramatic bread bowl that guests can devour along with the dip. For summer gatherings, try broiling it in a cast-iron skillet and serving it straight from the oven for a rustic, family-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which isn’t always likely!), simply transfer the Hot Corn Dip to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making tomorrow’s snack just as dreamy as today’s.
Freezing
While Hot Corn Dip is at its best fresh from the oven, you can freeze it if needed. Portion into freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and freeze for up to one month. For optimal results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To revive leftover Hot Corn Dip, bake it in a 350°F oven until warmed through and bubbly, about 15 minutes. In a pinch, the microwave on medium power works for single servings—just be sure to give it a stir so it heats evenly. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese or extra green onions before serving to freshen it up.
FAQs
Can I make Hot Corn Dip a day ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble the dip up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use frozen or canned corn?
Yes! Frozen corn (thawed and patted dry) or canned corn (well-drained) work perfectly and keep prep incredibly easy. Fresh sweet corn is also fantastic in peak season.
How can I make Hot Corn Dip spicier?
For extra heat, stir in chopped jalapeños, a splash of your favorite hot sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper before baking. Adjust the spice level to your preference—and maybe keep a cooling dip nearby just in case!
What’s the best way to transport this dip?
Bake the Hot Corn Dip in a lidded, oven-safe dish, then wrap it in foil or a towel to keep it warm. It reheats beautifully if needed, so you can always warm it up quickly at your destination.
Can I make it vegetarian or gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a gluten-free version, just double-check the ingredients in your mayonnaise, sour cream, and chips to ensure they meet your needs.
Final Thoughts
Hot Corn Dip is a wildly fun, easy, and endlessly customizable appetizer that transforms every occasion into a mini celebration. Whip it up for your next gathering—or just because you want something absolutely delicious—and watch it disappear. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Print
Hot Corn Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This hot corn dip is a creamy and cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for parties or gatherings. Made with corn kernels, cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of cheeses, it’s baked until bubbly and golden for a delicious snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (drained)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in the corn, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Notes
- For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- You can prepare the dip a day ahead and bake just before serving.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
