Corn Dip Recipe

This easy, creamy, and cheesy corn dip recipe is made with fresh sweet corn, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning. Perfect as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or flavorful side dish, this baked corn dip will be a crowd favorite!

Ingredients

For the Bacon:

• 5 strips bacon
• 1-2 Tablespoons salted butter
• Salt/Pepper (to taste)

For the Vegetables:

• 3 cups fresh corn (from 4-5 ears)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup red onion, diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced

For the Dip:

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix (about 2 Tablespoons)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 green onions, diced (plus more for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over low heat until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon.
3. Prepare the Corn: While the bacon cooks, carefully cut the kernels off the corn. To make this easier, prop the corn cob on a bundt pan to hold it steady and catch the kernels.
4. Sauté the Corn: Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the corn to the skillet. Sauté for about 10 minutes, adding butter as needed. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook the Vegetables: Add the garlic, red onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeños to the skillet. Sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes or until softened. Remove from heat.
6. Prepare the Dip Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Ranch Seasoning Mix, HALF of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and the diced green onions. Stir until well mixed.
7. Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables and seasoned corn to the bowl. Mix thoroughly to combine.
8. Assemble the Dip: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet (a 12-inch enamel cast iron skillet works well). Top with the remaining cheese.
9. Bake: Bake the dip for 20 minutes, uncovered. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with extra diced green onions. Serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: The combination of fresh corn, smoky bacon, and creamy cheeses makes this dip irresistibly delicious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
• Versatile: Works as a dip with chips, a topping for baked potatoes, or even as a filling for tacos.

Tips

• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and texture, but frozen or canned corn can work in a pinch.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
• One-Pan Option: Cook the bacon in an oven-safe skillet and prepare the dip directly in it to reduce cleanup.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Swap Monterey Jack for Pepper Jack if you prefer more spice.
• Spice Level: Add more jalapeños or include their seeds for extra heat.
• Vegetables: Add diced zucchini or poblano peppers for a twist.
• Ranch Alternative: Substitute Ranch Seasoning Mix with your favorite seasoning blend.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble the dip and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the dip?
A: It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Q: What’s the best way to cut fresh corn?
A: Use a bundt pan to hold the cob and catch kernels, or use a sharp knife on a cutting board.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with tortilla chips, pita bread, or veggie sticks.
• Pair with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
• Use as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.

Enjoy this flavorful corn dip that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!