Easy Traditional Corn Dip Recipe (Hot or Cold!)

Craving something creamy, cheesy, and totally addictive? This easy traditional corn dip is your new go-to for parties, game nights, or when you just need a snack that hits all the right notes. Whether you serve it hot out of the oven or chilled from the fridge, it’s always a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Corn Dip

There’s something magical about a dip that’s warm, creamy, and just a little bit spicy. It’s the kind of dish people hover around at parties and always ask you for the recipe. This one’s made with sweet corn, melty cheese, and a tangy, creamy base you can whip up in minutes. Bonus: it’s flexible. You can make it ahead, serve it hot or cold, and tweak it with fun flavor add-ins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• 1 cup pepper jack cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp chili powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup chopped bell peppers
• 2–3 chopped green onions
• 1–2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
• Optional: diced jalapeños for a spicy kick

How to Make This Traditional Corn Dip

Step 1: Prep the Corn

You can use fresh, canned, or frozen corn here. If you’re using canned, drain it well. If it’s frozen, thaw it first. Want extra flavor? Try roasting the corn in a skillet until it gets golden and toasty. It adds such a cozy, charred note.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, mayo, and softened cream cheese until smooth. This is the dreamy, tangy base that ties everything together.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Spices

Fold in the cheddar, pepper jack, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. It already smells like something amazing is happening, doesn’t it?

Step 4: Add Fresh Crunch and Heat

Toss in the corn, chopped peppers, green onions, and cilantro. Stir everything together gently so it stays nice and fluffy. Want it spicier? Stir in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

Step 5: Serve It Hot or Cold

For a cold dip, chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. It firms up and the flavors meld beautifully.
If you’re going hot, spread it in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and golden on top.

Serving Tips and Pairings

Scoop it up with crunchy tortilla chips or try toasted pita triangles. Fresh veggie sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers make great dippers too. It’s perfect as a snack board centerpiece and honestly? It pairs beautifully with these sheet pan nachos when you’re feeding a hungry crowd.

Flavor Variations to Try

Feeling creative? Try one of these tasty twists:
Mexican Street Corn Style: Add crumbled cotija, fresh lime juice, and a sprinkle of Tajín
Spicy Jalapeño: Add a splash of hot sauce and chopped pickled jalapeños
Bacon Lover’s: Fold in some crispy crumbled bacon for salty magic
Lighter Option: Swap sour cream and mayo for Greek yogurt to lighten it up a bit

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’ve baked it, you can reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Freezing isn’t the best idea—it can mess with the texture and turn things watery.

More Corn Recipes to Love

If this dip has you craving more bold corn flavor, you’ll definitely want to check out our Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili for a cozy dinner idea. And for another cheesy hit, these cheesy garlic chicken wraps are perfect next to this dip for a full-on comfort food spread. Need dessert too? Serve this brownie batter dip and watch everyone swoon.

FAQ: Traditional Corn Dip

Give This Corn Dip a Try!

This easy traditional corn dip is one of those recipes that disappears fast and makes you look like a party hero. Whether you go hot and bubbly or cool and creamy, it’s always a winner. Leave a comment below and let me know how you served yours!

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