Irresistible Baked Crack Corn Dip
This baked crack corn dip is the warm, cheesy version of the cold classic that my friend first made at a hangout—we were all obsessed, and it disappeared by the end of the night! I couldn’t stop thinking about it, so I recreated it as a baked version, and now it’s one of my favorites.
It’s creamy and cheesy, with just the right amount of sweetness from the corn and a little kick of spice. Baking it makes it hot and bubbly, which takes it to another level. Perfect for game day, a cozy night in, or when you just want something extra delicious.
Serve it with tortilla chips, Dipsy Doodles (my favorite!), crackers, or fresh veggies, and watch it disappear. I also love how easy it is to tweak—add a little jalapeño or extra cheese for even more flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – This dip comes together quickly, perfect for when you need a simple snack or appetizer.
- Creamy and Cheesy – The combination of cheeses and creamy base makes it rich and comforting.
- Sweet and Savory – The sweetness of the corn balances perfectly with the creaminess and a touch of spice.
- Great for Sharing – Perfect for parties, game days, or any time you’re hosting friends and family.
The first time I made this dip, I was honestly just throwing together what I had in the fridge for a last-minute get-together. It turned out to be a hit, with everyone gathered around the bowl, scooping up every last bit.
Since then, it’s become my go-to for parties and casual gatherings.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl: For combining all ingredients.
- Spatula or Spoon: To mix and fold the ingredients together.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping green onions, jalapeños, and bacon.
- Cheese Grater: For shredding a block of cheese.
- Skillet (for Bacon): To cook the bacon until crispy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Baking Dish: For baking the dip.
- Paper Towels: To drain bacon after cooking.
- Serving Dish: Optional, if transferring to a separate dish for serving.
Recipe Tip
if you like a little extra crunch, try adding a handful of diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of green onions on top.
Ingredients List (with Substitutions)
This Crack Corn Dip comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients, but it’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
All you need is corn, cheese, a creamy base, and a few seasonings to pull it all together.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels work well here. If using canned, drain thoroughly.
- Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess; softened for easy mixing. Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
- Sour Cream: For a tangy, creamy base; Greek yogurt also works as a substitute.
- Cheddar or Colby Cheese: Freshly shredded from a block for best melting results. Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend can also work well.
- Bacon: Cooked and crumbled for a smoky, savory touch.
- Green Onions or Scallions: Adds freshness and a bit of color.
- Jalapeños: Optional, for a little kick—use fresh or pickled jalapeños.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: Adds flavor; if you prefer, you can substitute with a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, and dried herbs.
Flavor Tip
If you have time, try lightly toasting the corn in a skillet before adding it to the dip. This gives it a nice char and brings out even more flavor.
Instructions
Making this baked crack corn dip is simple and straightforward. With just a few steps, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, golden dip ready to serve and share.
- Prepare the Ingredients:
If using frozen corn, thaw it first. If using canned corn, drain it thoroughly. Cook and crumble the bacon, and chop the green onions and jalapeños if using. Shred a block of cheddar cheese for best melting results. - Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until smooth and well-blended. - Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Fold in the corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, and jalapeños (if using). Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed. - Serve Cold or Bake:
- Cold Dip: Transfer the dip to a serving dish and serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for a few hours for flavors to meld.
- Baked Dip: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Serve and Garnish:
Serve warm or cold with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies. Garnish with extra green onions if desired.
Tip: Shred Your Own Cheese
For the best melting results, shred a block of cheese instead of using pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect how well it melts.
Top Tips for Crack Corn Dip
- Use Fresh or Frozen Corn: For extra flavor, use grilled corn or fresh corn cut off the cob, especially if making the dip in the summer when corn is in season.
- Adjust the Heat: If you like spice, add extra jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne. For a milder version, skip the jalapeños entirely.
- Chill for Better Flavor: If serving cold, chilling the dip for an hour or more allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
- Double for a Crowd: This dip is always a hit, so consider doubling the recipe if you’re serving a large group.
What to Serve With This Dip
This dip pairs well with so many things especially corn chips, tortilla chips, crackers, toasted pita chips.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers – Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently – Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to the right consistency.
- Not Recommended for Freezing – Due to the creamy base, this dip doesn’t freeze well, as it may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, just heat it up and give it a good stir.
Can I use frozen or canned corn?
Yes! Fresh corn is great if you have it, but canned or frozen corn works just as well. Just make sure to drain canned corn or thaw frozen corn before adding it to the dip.
What can I add to make it spicier?
For extra heat, try adding diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can adjust the spice level to your preference.
You’ll Also Like
If you enjoyed this Crack Corn Dip, here are a few more crowd-friendly recipes to try:
- Mini Chicken Taquitos with Cheese – Crispy taquitos filled with shredded chicken and cheese, perfect for dipping.
- Creamy Elote Chowder: Mexican Street Corn Soup – A cozy, creamy chowder with the flavors of Mexican street corn.
- Loaded Cheesy Beef Nachos – Classic nachos with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and plenty of toppings.
If you try this Crack Corn Dip, I’d love to hear what you think!
Leave a comment or recipe rating, and if you take a photo, tag me on Instagram. I love seeing how these recipes turn out in your kitchen!
Irresistible Baked Crack Corn Dip
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Spatula or Spoon
- 1 Cutting Board and Knife
- 1 Cheese grater
- 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 1 Skillet (for Bacon)
- 1 Baking Dish (optional)
- 1 Serving Dish
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels thawed fresh, frozen, or canned
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Colby shred from a block
- 6 slices bacon cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 3 green onions chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños seeded and diced (optional)
- 1 oz ranch seasoning mix 1 packet; adjust to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook 6 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.
- In a large bowl, mix 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup sour cream, and 1 oz ranch seasoning mix until smooth.
- Fold in 2 cups corn, 1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby cheese, crumbled bacon, 3 chopped green onions, and 1-2 diced jalapeños (if using). Stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Garnish with additional green onions and crumbled bacon, and serve warm with chips or veggies.
Notes
- Shred Your Own Cheese: For the best, smooth melt, shred a block of cheddar cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- Use Fresh or Grilled Corn: For extra flavor, use grilled corn or fresh corn cut off the cob, especially if making the dip in the summer when corn is in season.
- Adjust the Heat: If you like spice, add extra jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne. For a milder version, skip the jalapeños entirely.
- Chill for Better Flavor: If serving cold, chilling the dip for an hour or more allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
- Double for a Crowd: This dip is always a hit, so consider doubling the recipe if you’re serving a large group.