Hey y'all! If you're looking to wow your guests with a creamy, gooey, flavor-packed appetizer, this Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It's a perfect blend of sweet corn, melty cheese, and a spicy punch from fresh jalapeños—all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether it's game night, a backyard barbecue, or a cozy family gathering, this dip disappears fast. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick
- Super easy to throw together in just minutes—minimal prep, maximum flavor!
- Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with sweet corn for an irresistible texture.
- The jalapeño brings just enough heat to keep things exciting (but totally customizable!).
- Bakes up beautifully golden and bubbly—perfect for scooping with chips or veggies.
- Great make-ahead option for parties or potlucks.
Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick Ingredients
- 2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned—see notes)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
How to Make Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish (8x8-inch or similar).
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Beat until smooth and creamy using a spatula or hand mixer.
Step 3: Add the Flavor
Stir in both cheeses, corn, jalapeños, garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Bake the Dip
Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and golden on top.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top, and let it cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Notes for the Perfect Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick
- You can use canned, frozen (thawed and drained), or fresh corn—learn about the differences here.
- If you prefer a milder dip, remove all jalapeño seeds and membranes, or use just one pepper.
- For a smoky twist, try adding roasted poblano peppers or a dash of chipotle powder (see more ideas at Serious Eats).
Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick Variations
- Bacon Boost: Stir in ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon before baking for extra savory flavor.
- Southwest Style: Add ½ cup black beans and a handful of chopped cilantro for a Tex-Mex flair.
- Extra Veggie: Fold in ½ cup diced red bell pepper or green chilies for color and crunch.
Required Equipment for Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or sturdy spatula
- Baking dish (8x8-inch or similar)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Storage Instructions for Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.
Serving Recommendations for Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick
- Pair with sturdy tortilla chips, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices.
- Garnish with extra fresh jalapeño for added color and kick.
- Serve alongside guacamole, fresh salsa, or cold margaritas for a festive spread (see healthy snacking tips).
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick
- Soften your cream cheese fully for easy mixing and the creamiest texture.
- Let the dip rest a few minutes after baking so flavors meld and it's easier to scoop.
- For extra golden color, broil the dip for 2-3 minutes at the end—watch closely! (More broiling tips at Cooking Light.)
Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick FAQs
- Can I make this Cheesy Baked Corn Dip with Jalapeño Kick ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Can I use different cheeses?
- Absolutely—try Pepper Jack, Colby, or mozzarella for a melty twist.
- Is this dip very spicy?
- It's moderately spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat by using more or less jalapeño, or leaving out the seeds.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
-
1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
-
2In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
-
3Stir in the corn kernels, chopped jalapeños, green onions, shredded cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until well combined.
-
4Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
-
5Bake for 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
-
6Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with tortilla chips or sliced baguette.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!