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This hearty bacon jalapeño popper hot corn dip transforms your favorite appetizer into an indulgent, cheesy skillet creation that disappears within minutes at any gathering. Bubbling hot with kicks of heat and sweet corn kernels intertwined with gooey melted cheese, this dip delivers irresistible flavor in every scoop.
I first created this dip when hosting an impromptu game night with friends during corn season. What started as a way to use leftover ingredients became our mandatory pregame ritual for every sports gathering since.
Ingredients
- Sweet Corn: freshly cut off the cob provides the sweetest flavor and best texture though frozen corn works wonderfully in a pinch
- Bacon: cooked until perfectly crispy offers savory contrast to the sweet corn and spicy elements
- Fresh Jalapeños: deliver bright heat while pickled jalapeños add tangy dimension
- Spicy Mayo: creates the perfect consistency while adding subtle heat throughout
- Cream Cheese: serves as the creamy foundation that binds everything together
- Half and Half: thins the mixture just enough for optimal dipping texture
- Mozzarella Cheese: delivers those irresistible cheese pulls that make for Instagram worthy moments
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: provides robust flavor that balances the creaminess
- Green Onions: add fresh punch and beautiful color contrast
- Garlic: infuses the entire dish with aromatic depth
- Seasoning Salt: enhances all flavors without overwhelming
- Sugar: highlights the natural sweetness of the corn
- Black Pepper: adds subtle heat throughout
- Paprika: contributes smoky notes and beautiful color
- Chili Powder: introduces complex warmth to every bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté The Aromatics:
- Begin by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced green onions and minced garlic, cooking gently until fragrant but not browned, about 2 minutes. The kitchen will fill with an incredible aroma that sets the foundation for this addictive dip.
- Add Corn And Seasonings:
- Add the corn kernels to the skillet and stir to combine with the aromatic mixture. Immediately add all seasonings including seasoning salt, sugar, black pepper, paprika, and chili powder. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the corn. Let the mixture cook for 3 minutes until the corn begins to slightly caramelize.
- Incorporate Cream Elements:
- Add softened cream cheese in chunks to the hot corn mixture. Allow it to slowly melt into the corn, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes. The cream cheese should fully incorporate without any remaining lumps. Add the spicy mayo and stir until completely blended with the corn and cream cheese mixture, creating a luxurious base.
- Create The Cheese Sauce:
- Pour in the half and half while stirring constantly. Immediately add both shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses in small handfuls, stirring between additions to ensure smooth melting. Continue stirring until all cheese has melted and the mixture has a uniform, silky consistency with gorgeous cheese pulls when lifted with a spoon.
- Finish With Toppings:
- Remove from heat and immediately garnish with sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, and crumbled crispy bacon. Drizzle with additional hot sauce if desired. The heat from the dip will slightly warm the toppings while maintaining their texture.
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The fresh corn truly makes this recipe magical. I discovered this one August when our local farm stand was overflowing with sweet corn. My husband now requests it for his birthday every year, even though his birthday falls in February when I have to use frozen corn. He claims he can close his eyes and taste summer with each bite.
Slow Cooker Method
For hands off preparation, this dip transitions beautifully to a slow cooker. Simply combine all ingredients except toppings in your slow cooker and cook on low for approximately 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting of cream cheese and both cheeses. Add toppings just before serving for maximum visual appeal and textural contrast. This method makes it perfect for potlucks or game day gatherings where you need to travel with your dish.
Creative Variations
This versatile dip serves as an excellent base for numerous variations. For a heartier version, fold in shredded rotisserie chicken during the final stages of cooking. Seafood lovers might appreciate adding lump crab meat or tiny cooked shrimp. Vegetarian guests can enjoy a meatless version where bacon is replaced with smoky roasted red peppers. I particularly love adding black beans and a touch of cumin for a southwestern twist that elevates this dip into meal territory when served with a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
While tortilla chips remain the classic pairing, this versatile dip works beautifully with toasted baguette slices, sturdy vegetable dippers like bell pepper strips or jicama, or even spooned over baked potatoes. For a striking presentation, serve directly in the cast iron skillet placed on a wooden board surrounded by various dipping options. The contrast between the rustic skillet and the colorful dippers creates an inviting display that draws guests immediately.
Storage Tips
This dip maintains its quality remarkably well when stored properly. Transfer leftover dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, add a small splash of half and half or milk to restore the creamy consistency. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
Yes, defrosted frozen corn works perfectly if fresh corn isn't available. It still delivers great flavor and texture.
- → How can I reduce the spice level?
To make it milder, reduce the amount of jalapeños or substitute with bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip, store it in the fridge, and reheat it on the stove or in a slow cooker before serving.
- → What can I serve with this dip?
Serve it with tortilla chips, bread slices, or crackers. It also works as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.
- → Can I add other ingredients?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken or other cheeses like pepper jack can add extra flavor and texture.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this dip is naturally gluten-free as long as all your ingredients (like spices and mayo) are gluten-free.