Cheesy Jalapeño Corn Dip

There is nothing like the first crackle of tortilla chips next to a dish of cheesy jalapeño corn dip hot from the oven when friends gather and everyone swirls their chips into molten cheese This dip is creamy with a pop of sweetness from corn and a little heat that makes you keep dipping long after you promised yourself the last bite

I always get requests for the recipe The mix of sweet corn and bright jalapeño reminds me of summer nights grilling outside when the first batch disappeared before the main course was even ready

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: Brings out the creamy smoothness and makes everything rich Use full fat for best flavor and let it soften at room temperature so it blends easier
• Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and keeps the texture scoopable Try to choose a high quality brand for a fresher taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates bold flavor and classic cheesy pull I like using sharp cheddar for deeper taste Look for cheese that is freshly shredded instead of prebagged
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Balances the cheddar with extra meltiness A good quality Monterey Jack melts the best and stays oozy
• Sweet corn: Gives the perfect sweet pop in each bite Canned or thawed frozen corn both work but use a brand with tender crisp kernels
• Jalapeños: Provide the kick and vivid green flecks in every scoop Use fresh jalapeños for their grassy flavor and adjust the amount as needed If you like lots of heat leave in some seeds
• Green onion: Adds crisp bite and freshness to round out the creaminess Slice it thin so it blends well into the dip
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Bring depth and make the dip extra savory Choose spices that smell bright and full when you open the jar
• Salt and black pepper: Wake up all the other flavors Use kosher salt to avoid over salting
• Tortilla chips: Are essential for scooping up every warm and cheesy bite Pick sturdy chips that can hold up to dip

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit which is the ideal temperature for a bubbly golden dip Give the oven a good 10 minutes so it is fully hot before baking

Blend the Cheesy Base

In a large mixing bowl add cream cheese sour cream cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mash and blend until smooth and streak free This is your creamy base and getting it well blended makes every scoop perfect

Fold in the Flavors

Add drained sweet corn finely chopped jalapeños sliced green onion garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper to the cheese mixture Stir gently but thoroughly so the veggies and seasoning are evenly spread throughout

Fill the Baking Dish

Transfer your dip to a medium baking dish I like an eight inch square spread out the mixture so it is level from edge to edge This ensures even bubbling and browning as it bakes

Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Slide the dish into the oven and let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes Watch for the edges to bubble and the top to get golden This means the cheeses inside are fully melted and everything is piping hot

Cool Before Serving

Let the dip cool for a few minutes before serving so no one burns their mouth The cheese sets up a bit as it cools making it perfect for dipping

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I love using extra sharp cheddar cheese which has the boldest flavor My favorite memory with this dip was at a family reunion Everyone stood in the kitchen just eating straight from the baking dish and laughing together

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days Reheat in the oven or briefly in the microwave for best texture If you need to save it longer you can freeze the unbaked mixture for up to one month and thaw in the fridge before baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Monterey Jack for mozzarella or another melty cheese if you prefer You can use fresh grilled corn shaved from the cob when in season Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream for a lighter taste and a boost of protein using it gives a little more tang which I love

Serving Suggestions

Scoop this hot dip onto tostadas or soft tortillas as a quick taco filling Pair with a tangy salsa verde or top with fresh pico de gallo Add sliced avocado or a spoonful of guacamole for even richer flavor Nothing beats it right alongside a cold Mexican lager

Cultural or Historical Context

Corn and cheese dips are staples at gatherings and potlucks across the Southwest The sweet and heat combo comes from the way New Mexican and Tex Mex cuisines celebrate bold flavor The tradition of serving melty dips with tortilla chips ties back to Mexican street snacks which are all about sharing and gathering

Seasonal Adaptations

For summer parties use fresh corn sliced from grilled cobs In winter add smoked paprika for warmth and depth During the holidays toss in some diced red bell pepper for a festive look

Success Stories

I have watched this dip vanish at every Super Bowl party and it is the first recipe my teen learned to make alone We even double the recipe for big family BBQs and there are never leftovers

Freezer Meal Conversion

Before baking scoop the finished mixture into a freezer safe container and wrap tightly Label with the date and freeze for up to one month When ready to enjoy thaw overnight in your fridge and bake as usual You may want to add a little extra cheese on top before baking to make it extra bubbly

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There is never a crumb left when I serve this dip and it always brings people together Try it once and you will crave it at every gathering

Common Recipe Questions

→ How spicy is the jalapeño corn dip?

The heat level is moderate, but you can remove jalapeño seeds for a milder dip or add more for extra spice.

→ What cheese works best in this dish?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack create a creamy texture and robust flavor, but you can swap in pepper jack for extra kick.

→ Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the mixture in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving for best results.

→ Are there other serving suggestions besides tortilla chips?

It also pairs well with sliced veggies, pita chips, or even toasted bread for dipping.

→ Is this suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Make sure to check labels on cheese for rennet content if needed.

→ Can I add other ingredients for extra flavor?

Diced tomatoes, cooked bacon, or chopped cilantro can all add depth and a fresh twist to the dish.