No-Bake Crack Corn Dip
This chilled crack corn dip is one of my go-to recipes when friends come over for game day. It’s creamy, sweet, and perfectly crunchy—one of those dips that’s hard to walk away from.
Sweet corn, a simple creamy dressing, and a crunchy topping come together in minutes. Let it chill in the fridge, and it’s ready to serve. It’s always a hit!
Why You’ll Love It:
- Quick and Easy: Just mix, chill, and serve.
- Refreshing: A chilled dip that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak with your favorite flavors and toppings.
How It Comes Together:
Sweet corn is mixed with a creamy, tangy dressing, then topped with something crunchy like crushed tortilla chips, pretzels, or crackers. Chill the dip for a bit before serving to bring all the flavors together.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients.
- Spatula or Spoon: For mixing.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping bacon, green onions, and jalapeños.
- Cheese Grater: For shredding cheese.
- Corn Stripper or Knife: To remove kernels from fresh corn cobs.
- Serving Dish: To transfer the dip for presentation.
Ingredients List (with Substitutions)
- Fresh Sweet Corn (Preferred): Grilled or steamed for enhanced flavor. Frozen sweet corn works great as a year-round option—just thaw and drain before using.
- Sour Cream: For a creamy and tangy base. Greek yogurt works as a lighter substitute.
- Mayonnaise: Adds smoothness and richness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded for a better melt and texture. Monterey Jack or Colby Jack can be used instead.
- Bacon: Cooked and crumbled for smoky flavor. Turkey bacon is a lighter option.
- Green Onions or Scallions: Adds brightness and crunch.
- Jalapeños: Optional for spice—pickled jalapeños add tang, while fresh jalapeños bring clean heat.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: Enhances flavor. A homemade mix of onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, and dill can be used instead.
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon:
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces. - Cook the Fresh Corn (if using):
If using fresh sweet corn, grill or steam the cobs for added flavor. Once cooked and cooled, cut the kernels off the cob using a knife or corn stripper. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain thoroughly. - Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until smooth and creamy. - Combine Ingredients:
Fold in the sweet corn, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, and jalapeños (if using). Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. - Chill and Serve:
Cover the dip and chill in the refrigerator for at least 5-10 minutes, or serve immediately. Garnish with additional green onions or bacon crumbles, if desired. Serve cold with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Top Tips for No-Bake Crack Corn Dip
- Use Fresh Corn for Best Flavor: Fresh sweet corn adds incredible flavor and texture, especially when grilled or steamed. Frozen corn is a convenient substitute but still has great sweetness.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Always shred cheese from a block for a better texture and creamier consistency in the dip.
- Customize the Spice: Adjust the heat level by adding pickled or fresh jalapeños. Omit them for a mild version.
- Chill for Better Flavor: Chilling the dip allows the flavors to blend beautifully. If serving immediately, stir well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead: This dip can be made 2-3 hours ahead of time—just give it a good stir before serving.
Storage Tips:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving and add fresh toppings for the best texture.
You’ll Also Like
- Baked Crack Corn Dip – A warm and cheesy take on this classic.
- Crispy Tostones with Garlic Sauce – A delicious pairing for dips like this.
- Creamy Elote Chowder – A hearty, corn-inspired soup that’s perfect for any time of year.
If you make this chilled crack corn dip, I’d love to hear how it turned out.
Leave a comment or recipe rating, and if you snap a photo, tag me on Instagram @cocinarepublic—I always enjoy seeing how these recipes come to life in your kitchen.
No-Bake Crack Corn Dip
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Spatula or Spoon
- 1 Cutting Board and Knife
- 1 Cheese Grater (Fine Setting)
- 1 Corn Stripper or Knife
- 1 Serving Dish
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh sweet corn grilled or steamed, kernels removed from the cob or frozen sweet corn (thawed and drained)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup finely grated cheddar cheese shredded from a block
- 6 slices bacon cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 3 tbsp pickled jalapeños finely diced (adjust to taste)
- 3 green onions chopped
- 1 oz ranch seasoning mix 1 packet
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook 6 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.
- If using fresh sweet corn, grill or steam 2 cobs (or about 2 cups) and remove kernels. If using frozen sweet corn, thaw and drain thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, mix ½ cup sour cream, ½ cup mayonnaise, and 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix until smooth.
- Fold in 2 cups sweet corn, 1 cup finely grated cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, 3 tbsp finely diced pickled jalapeños, and 3 chopped green onions. Mix until evenly combined.
- Cover and chill for at least 5-10 minutes, or serve immediately.
- Garnish with additional green onions or bacon crumbles, and serve cold with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Notes
Top Tips for No-Bake Crack Corn Dip
- Finely Grate the Cheese: Use the fine side of a grater to shred cheddar cheese so it blends smoothly into the dip without clumping.
- Use Fresh or Frozen Corn: Fresh sweet corn gives the best flavor and texture. Frozen corn works well too but should be thawed and drained thoroughly.
- Drain Well: Whether using frozen or grilled corn, make sure it’s not watery to keep the dip creamy.
- Adjust the Spice: Add more or fewer pickled jalapeños based on your heat preference. For extra tang, drizzle a bit of jalapeño brine into the dip.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the dip to chill helps the flavors meld, making it even more delicious.