Name: Jalapeño Corn Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4–5 cups corn (fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup onion, diced; 1 cup red bell pepper, diced; 2–3 jalapeños, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream; 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ⅛ cup cilantro, chopped; 2 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese; Diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro for garnish

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This Jalapeño Corn Dip is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor from sweet corn, smoky paprika, tangy green chiles, and spicy jalapeños. Baked until hot and bubbly, it’s the ultimate appetizer for parties, game days, or any time you want to impress a crowd with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip combines layers of flavor and texture—sweet and smoky corn, melty cheese, a creamy base, and just the right amount of spice from fresh jalapeños. It’s easy to customize, can be made with fresh or frozen corn, and pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, crackers, or crusty bread. Best of all, it’s a make-ahead-friendly recipe that reheats beautifully. Jalapeño Corn Dip

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4–5 cups corn (fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup red bell pepper, diced
2–3 jalapeños, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
⅛ cup cilantro, chopped
2 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
Diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
If using fresh corn, boil or grill, then cool and slice kernels from the cob. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain well.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sauté onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeños for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add corn and cook 2–3 minutes to lightly char.
Add garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.
In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.
Fold in green chiles, corn mixture, smoked paprika, cilantro, and 1 ½ cups cheese. Mix until well combined.
Transfer to an 8×8-inch baking dish or oven-safe 10-inch skillet. Top with remaining cheese.
Bake for 15 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
Garnish with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips or Fritos.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 191 kcal per serving

Variations

Swap Colby Jack for pepper jack for extra spice.
Stir in black beans for added heartiness.
Use roasted poblano peppers in place of jalapeños for a milder flavor.
Top with crushed tortilla chips before baking for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals. You can also freeze the unbaked dip for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dip up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use canned corn?

Yes, just drain well and skip the initial cooking step for fresh or frozen corn.

Is this dip very spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat depending on the jalapeños; remove seeds for less spice.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine ingredients and cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Can I substitute another cheese?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella all work well.

How do I make it lighter?

Use light cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream.

What can I serve with this dip?

Tortilla chips, crackers, sliced baguette, or vegetable sticks are great choices.

Can I add meat to this dip?

Yes, cooked ground beef or shredded chicken make it heartier.

How do I keep it warm for a party?

Serve in a slow cooker set to warm or in a heat-safe dish over a warming tray.

Can I freeze baked dip leftovers?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly; reheat in the oven to restore creaminess.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Corn Dip is a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. With creamy cheese, smoky corn, and just the right kick of heat, it’s a guaranteed hit for any gathering. Serve it hot and bubbly with plenty of chips, and watch it disappear fast.