The warm, bubbly layers of Corn Dip With Cream Cheese release an irresistible aroma of spices and melted cheddar as it emerges from the oven, drawing everyone to the table with its golden, cheesy top. This dip combines the sweetness of corn with the tangy richness of cream cheese, creating a smooth, scoopable texture that’s both comforting and addictive. It’s a simple way to elevate snack time without much effort.
I often make this Corn Dip With Cream Cheese for casual gatherings because it comes together quickly and feeds a crowd. It reheats beautifully for leftovers, staying creamy even after a day in the fridge. Friends always ask for the recipe, loving how it pairs with everyday chips for an easy, flavorful bite.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Creamy Texture: The softened cream cheese blends seamlessly with corn for a velvety dip that’s perfect for scooping.
- Quick Prep: Ready in under 40 minutes total, ideal for busy evenings or last-minute parties.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Bold spices and bubbly cheese topping make it a hit with family and guests alike.
- Versatile Snack: Great warm or at room temp, fitting any occasion from game night to holiday appetizers.
Easy Corn Dip With Cream Cheese
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful corn dip made with cream cheese, corn, and spices, baked until bubbly and topped with cheese and herbs. Perfect for parties or snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can white corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can yellow corn, drained
- 1 (10 oz) can petite diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel), drained
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for topping)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 2 green onions, diced (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy.
- Add the drained white corn, yellow corn, diced tomatoes with chilies, mayonnaise, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Transfer the corn dip mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dip and continue to cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with diced green onions and extra fresh cilantro before serving warm.
Notes
- Serve with tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.
- This dip can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Ingredients to make Corn Dip With Cream Cheese
These ingredients come together for a dip that’s creamy, slightly spicy, and full of fresh corn flavor—using quality canned goods and herbs ensures the best taste without fuss.
- White corn – Adds a mild sweetness and tender bite to balance the richer elements.
- Yellow corn – Brings vibrant color and subtle corniness for visual appeal.
- Petite diced tomatoes with green chilies – Provides a zesty kick and moisture without overpowering the dip; swap for mild version if needed.
- Cream cheese – Forms the smooth, tangy base that holds everything together.
- Mayonnaise – Helps create extra creaminess and binds the flavors.
- Chili powder – Infuses a warm, smoky spice for depth.
- Cumin – Adds an earthy note that complements the corn and tomatoes.
- Garlic powder – Delivers savory aroma without fresh chopping.
- Fresh cilantro – Offers bright, herby freshness; use parsley as a substitute if preferred.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into a gooey topping for cheesy indulgence.
- Green onions – Garnishes with crisp, mild onion flavor.
How to Make Corn Dip With Cream Cheese
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking for the dip. This temperature allows the flavors to meld without overcooking the corn.
Step 2: Prepare the cream cheese base
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, which takes just a minute or two with a spoon or mixer. Softening it first prevents lumps and makes mixing easier.
Step 3: Combine all ingredients
Add the drained white corn, yellow corn, petite diced tomatoes with green chilies, mayonnaise, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and chopped cilantro to the bowl. Stir everything thoroughly until well combined, ensuring the spices coat the mixture evenly for balanced flavor.
Step 4: Transfer and bake the dip
Spoon the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes, until it’s heated through and starting to bubble around the edges. This step brings out the dip’s creamy consistency.
Step 5: Add cheese topping
In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and return to the oven until melted and bubbly. The cheese creates a golden, inviting crust.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Remove from the oven and top with diced green onions and extra fresh cilantro for a fresh finish. Let it cool slightly before serving warm to avoid burns while enjoying the full flavors.
Pro Tips for Success
- Drain Cans Well: Excess liquid from corn and tomatoes can make the dip watery, so pat them dry for a thicker result.
- Soften Cheese Properly: Let cream cheese sit out for 30 minutes to beat smoothly and avoid gritty bits in the mix.
- Stir Thoroughly: Combine spices evenly during mixing to prevent pockets of intense flavor in every scoop.
- Watch the Melt: Broil briefly if cheese isn’t bubbly enough, but check often to avoid browning too much.
How to Serve Corn Dip With Cream Cheese
Garnishes
I like to finish this dip with a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro for a bright, herby pop that cuts through the richness, along with sliced jalapeños if you want more heat. A handful of crumbled bacon adds a smoky crunch that’s surprisingly fitting. These touches make each bite feel fresh and layered.
Side Dishes
Pair it with sturdy tortilla chips for scooping up the creamy corn without breaking, or try pita wedges for a lighter option. Fresh veggie sticks like celery or bell peppers provide a crisp contrast to the warm dip. I find it balances well with a simple green salad on the side for a fuller snack spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon the dip into a cast-iron skillet straight from the oven for a rustic, cozy table centerpiece that keeps it warm longer. Layer it in individual ramekins for portioned servings at parties, topped with cheese for mini bubbly bites. Or spread it on toasted baguette slices as bruschetta for an elegant twist on the classic dip.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store any leftover Corn Dip With Cream Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge, where it keeps well for up to three days. Cover it tightly to maintain the creamy texture and prevent odors from seeping in. This makes it easy to pull out for quick snacks.
Freezing
For longer storage, portion the unbaked dip into freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to two months, as it holds up better before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use, then bake as directed. Avoid freezing after baking to preserve the fresh-baked cheesiness.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist and prevent the top from drying out. For faster results, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring halfway, until hot throughout. A quick broil at the end restores the bubbly cheese topping nicely.











