Meet your new party favorite: Zesty Southern Corn Dip. This creamy and slightly spicy dip is perfect for any occasion, bringing a taste of the South to your table with its bold flavors and comforting textures.
Sweet corn kernels provide a naturally sweet and crunchy base. Feel free to use fresh, canned, or frozen, depending on what’s on hand. Shredded cheddar cheese melts into the dip, adding a rich, savory depth. Mayonnaise and sour cream lend creaminess, balancing out the heat and tang. Chopped cilantro brings a fresh, herby note. Jalapeño gives just the right amount of heat; adjust to your liking. Lime juice adds brightness and zest. Both garlic powder and onion powder enhance the overall flavor profile. Finally, a dash of salt, pepper, and paprika ties everything together.
This dip pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, pita bread, or even fresh veggies like bell pepper strips and cucumber slices. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or as a topping for tacos.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, gather all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeño. Squeeze in the juice from one lime to add a fresh zing. Now, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
With a sturdy spoon, mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want it to look like a cohesive mixture with all the ingredients evenly distributed. Transfer this mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. This ensures everything cooks uniformly.
Sprinkle a bit of paprika over the top. This not only adds a pop of color but also infuses a subtle smokiness. Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to become bubbly and turn a lovely golden brown.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. This helps the dip set a bit, making it easier to scoop and enjoy.