Have you ever stumbled upon a dish that’s like a fiesta in a bowl? That’s how I felt the first time I tasted this creamy Mexican corn dip. It’s an explosion of flavors—like a mariachi band for your taste buds—and it’s so easy to whip up, even on a lazy Sunday afternoon when you’re still in your pajamas, sipping coffee and wondering if you should order takeout again.
Steps
- Start by draining the MexiCorn, chopped green chiles, and jalapeño peppers, ensuring all excess liquid is removed. This will help maintain the desired texture of the dip.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained corn, chiles, and jalapeños with chopped green onions, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
- Add a teaspoon of pepper and half a teaspoon of garlic powder to the mixture. Stir well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Incorporate the shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the mix, making sure it’s thoroughly combined for an even flavor throughout the dip.
- Once mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least two hours or overnight to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve the chilled corn dip with Fritos Scoops corn chips for a crunchy and satisfying appetizer.
Ingredients
- 3 cans (11 oz each) MexiCorn (a mix of sweet corn and diced red and green peppers), drained
- 1 can (7 oz) chopped green chiles
- 1 can (6 oz) chopped jalapeño peppers, drained with liquid reserved for taste
- 1/2 cup chopped green onion
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 package (16 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2-3 bags of Fritos Scoops corn chips for serving
FAQ
- Can I prepare this corn dip in advance?
- Yes, you can make this dip ahead of time, and it’s actually more flavorful if prepared a few hours or even the night before. This allows the ingredients to meld together. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
- What are some alternatives to serving this dip with corn chips?
- Besides corn chips, you can serve this versatile dip with fresh vegetables such as carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper strips. It’s also delicious with crackers, pretzels, or as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.
- How spicy is this corn dip, and can I adjust the heat level?
- The dip has a moderate spice level due to the chopped jalapeños. If you want a milder version, simply use fewer jalapeños or choose a milder variety. For those who enjoy extra heat, you can add more jalapeños or include some of their juice.
- How long can I keep this corn dip in the refrigerator?
- This dip can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to stir it well before serving to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Is it possible to freeze the corn dip for later use?
- It’s not recommended to freeze this dip, as the texture may alter upon thawing. The mayonnaise and sour cream could separate, affecting the overall consistency. It’s best to enjoy this dip fresh or keep it refrigerated for short-term storage.
Tips
- Ensure Proper Drainage: Make sure to thoroughly drain all canned ingredients, especially the corn, green chiles, and jalapeños, to avoid a runny dip. This step is crucial for maintaining the perfect creamy consistency.
- Prepare in Advance: For enhanced flavor, consider making the dip a few hours or even the night before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a more robust taste.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness by altering the amount of jalapeños or opting for a milder variety if you prefer less heat. Conversely, add more jalapeños or some of their juice for an extra kick.
- Experiment with Cheeses: For a different taste profile, try swapping the sharp cheddar cheese with alternatives like pepper jack or smoked gouda. This can add a unique twist to the dip.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl – A large bowl is essential for mixing all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Serving Platter or Bowl – If you want a specific dish for presenting the dip attractively.
- Can Opener – If you don’t already have one, you’ll need it to open the cans of MexiCorn, green chiles, and jalapeños.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate measurement of ingredients like mayonnaise, sour cream, pepper, and garlic powder.
