Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip

Name: Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-486082H41M15S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 30 ounces canned corn; ½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream; ½ cup mayonnaise; 4 cups shredded cheese (such as white cheddar); 1 serrano chile or jalapeno pepper (diced); 2 tablespoons lime juice; Spices: chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper; Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Published: June 13, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dip can be prepared in just 5 minutes with minimal effort.
Creamy and Flavorful: The blend of cheeses and spices creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with tortilla chips, veggies, or even as a topping for tacos.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for parties, game days, or family gatherings.
Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spiciness by choosing your preferred pepper.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

3-quart baking dish or 9-inch pie plate
Cooking spray
Large mixing bowl
Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Baking Dish: Ensures even cooking and melting of cheese.
Mixing Bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful dip:

For the Dip

two 15-ounce cans canned corn
1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
4 cups shredded cheese (divided; I used white cheddar; use your favorite Mexican shredded cheese blend)
1 serrano chile or jalapeno pepper (seeds removed and diced very small; or to taste)
2 to 3 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika or paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
2 to 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro for garnishing (or to taste)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 3-quart baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. The canned corn
2. Mexican crema or sour cream
3. Mayonnaise
4. 2 cups of shredded cheese
5. Diced serrano chile or jalapeno
6. Lime juice
7. Chili powder
8. Smoked paprika
9. Salt
10. Black pepper

Stir everything until well mixed, then transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add More Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the corn mixture.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it after 15 minutes if you prefer less browning on top. Check closely during the last few minutes as cheese can brown quickly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with tortilla chips. Enjoy your Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip!

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip

Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip is a crowd-pleaser that shines at any gathering. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your dip experience.

With Tortilla Chips

Tortilla chips are the classic companion for this dip. Their crunch adds texture and makes for easy scooping.

As a Nacho Topping

Drizzle Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip over tortilla chips, then add jalapenos, guacamole, and sour cream for a festive nacho platter.

In a Taco Salad

Use the dip as a creamy base in your taco salad. Add lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, and avocado for a refreshing meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

Serve with sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots for a healthier option that still delivers on flavor.

As a Sandwich Spread

Spread the dip inside wraps or sandwiches for an extra layer of cheesy goodness that complements meats and veggies.

On Grilled Chicken

Top grilled chicken breasts with Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip for an irresistible main dish that is sure to impress.

How to Perfect Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip

For the best results when making Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip, consider these helpful tips.

Use Quality Cheese: The type of cheese you choose can greatly affect flavor. Opt for fresh shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting.
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, use jalapeno instead of serrano or reduce the amount used. Always taste before adding more!
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh lime juice and herbs will enhance the overall flavor profile of your dip.
Don’t Skip the Baking: Baking helps meld all the flavors together while achieving that golden-brown top layer that makes this dish irresistible.
Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only brightens the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip

Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip can create a well-rounded spread. Here are some great options to consider.

Guacamole
A creamy avocado dip that complements the cheesy flavors perfectly. Serve it alongside tortilla chips for double dipping fun!
Pico de Gallo
Fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the corn dip.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
A tangy salad featuring corn mixed with lime, cheese, and spices offers an excellent contrast to the warm dip.
Black Bean Salsa
This hearty salsa combines black beans with corn and peppers for added protein and fiber. It’s refreshing and filling!
Quesadillas
Simple cheese quesadillas can be cut into wedges for easy dipping or snacking alongside your cheesy corn delight.
Stuffed Jalapeños
These spicy bites filled with cheese or meat can be a great appetizer that matches perfectly with your corn dip’s flavors.
Chips & Salsa
Classic tortilla chips served with a zesty tomato-based salsa provide another crunchy option to enjoy while digging into the cheesy goodness.
Rice and Beans
A side of seasoned rice and beans creates a satisfying plate that pairs wonderfully with the dip’s rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some things to watch out for:

Skipping the Preheat: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to 400F for best results.
Overloading on Spice: Adding too much serrano or jalapeno can make the dip too spicy. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat tolerance.
Ignoring Cheese Types: Not using a mix of cheeses can affect the flavor and texture. Try combining white cheddar with a Mexican cheese blend for depth.
Not Watching the Bake Time: Leaving the dip in too long may cause it to overcook. Keep an eye on it, especially in the final minutes, for that perfect golden top.
Neglecting Garnish: Skipping the cilantro garnish misses an opportunity for freshness and color. Always add cilantro before serving for that vibrant touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Containers: Use an airtight container to prevent drying out and keep flavors intact.

Freezing Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip

Duration: You can freeze this dip for up to 2 months.
Containers: Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container or bag to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F, place the dip in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until evenly warmed.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring continuously until heated through; this helps retain creaminess without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip?

Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer inspired by Mexican street corn. It combines corn, cheese, and spices for a deliciously warm dip.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What types of cheese work best in this recipe?

A combination of white cheddar and any Mexican cheese blend works well. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!

How spicy is Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip?

The spice level depends on how much serrano or jalapeno you add. For milder flavor, use jalapenos or reduce the amount used.

Can I customize this Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip?

Absolutely! Add ingredients like black beans, diced tomatoes, or different spices for extra flavor. Customize it according to your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Baked Mexican Corn Dip is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for parties or cozy nights at home, you can customize it with various toppings or mix-ins. We encourage you to try it out and enjoy this delightful dip with friends and family!

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