Spicy Southwest Corn Dip

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 25 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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This Spicy Southwest Corn Dip is a vibrant blend of fresh vegetables, creamy goodness, and a kick of heat. It’s a surefire hit for any gathering, bringing together the bold flavors of the Southwest in a warm, cheesy dip.

Ingredients for Spicy Southwest Corn Dip

Corn kernels form the base, bringing natural sweetness and texture. Diced tomatoes add juiciness and a touch of acidity. Red onions provide a mild, sweet bite that complements the heat. Jalapeños are the star for spice, offering vibrant heat that can be adjusted to taste.

Pepper jack cheese melts beautifully, infusing the dip with creaminess and a hint of peppery flavor. Sour cream and mayonnaise deliver a luscious texture and tang, while lime juice brightens everything with a zesty finish. Ground cumin and smoked paprika offer warmth and a smoky depth, and cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note at the end.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra smoky flavor, grill the corn before cutting it off the cob.
  • If you’re short on time, canned corn works in a pinch—just be sure to drain it well.
  • Adjust the jalapeño amount based on your heat preference; remove seeds for a milder dip.

Serving Suggestions

This dip pairs wonderfully with crispy tortilla chips or freshly baked pita bread. For a healthier option, serve it alongside an assortment of crunchy vegetables like bell peppers and celery sticks. It's also a great topping for tacos or as a flavorful filling for quesadillas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Is there a way to make it less spicy?
Absolutely! Simply reduce or omit the jalapeños, or use a milder pepper like a poblano.
Can I use a different cheese?
Certainly. Cheddar or Colby Jack can substitute well if you prefer a different flavor.

Spicy Southwest Corn Dip Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures it's ready to go as soon as your dip is assembled.

In a large mixing bowl, toss in your corn kernels, diced tomatoes, red onions, and jalapeños. Add the pepper jack cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Sprinkle in the lime juice, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until well combined, making sure each bite will have a bit of everything.

Transfer this mixture into a baking dish, smoothing it out so it cooks evenly. Slide it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese bubbles and turns a lovely golden brown.

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped cilantro on top. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also introduces a fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich dip.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort.
  • Perfect for parties or a cozy night in with friends.
  • Uses fresh ingredients for a burst of taste.
  • Can be easily customized to suit your spice level.

Ingredients

2 cups of fresh corn kernels
1 cup of diced tomatoes
1/2 cup of diced red onions
1/4 cup of diced jalapeños
1 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese
1/2 cup of sour cream
1/4 cup of mayonnaise
1 tablespoon of lime juice
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup of chopped cilantro

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn kernels, diced tomatoes, red onions, jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

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