This Bacon Bliss Hot Corn Dip is cheesy, creamy, and packed with crispy bacon bits. It’s a warm and lovely dish, perfect for sharing at parties or game day!
Honestly, the bacon in this dip takes it to a whole new level! I can’t resist making it for friends because the compliments never stop. It’s just too good to share…or is it? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: The star of the show! Your go-to crispy bacon adds a crispy texture and wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too, though it may not be as rich.
Corn: Fresh corn is excellent for this dip, giving a sweet, crunchy bite. For convenience, frozen corn is a great alternative; just make sure to thaw it first. Canned corn may work too, but drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cheese: The combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack provides a lovely balance. Feel free to swap in pepper jack for a kick or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy altogether. Just ensure it melts well.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: They keep the dip creamy! For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace either ingredient without sacrificing too much creaminess. Just keep an eye on flavor and adjust seasoning as needed.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Creamy Texture for My Dip?
Creating that velvety texture comes down to mixing well and the right baking time. Ensure your cheese is fully melted into the creamy mixture. Here’s how:
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a bowl before baking. The mayo and sour cream should be well incorporated.
- Don’t rush the baking step! Aim for bubbling edges and a golden top, about 20-25 minutes helps here.
Let it cool slightly before serving to help thicken up a bit. This dip is best enjoyed warm with something to scoop it up! Whether it’s chips, bread, or veggies, you can’t go wrong!
Bacon Bliss Hot Corn Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 6 slices bacon
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bacon Bliss Hot Corn Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. You’ll have it ready to serve in approximately 35-40 minutes—perfect for parties or cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First off, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to make sure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your dip.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Grab a large skillet and cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. After it cools, crumble it into small pieces. Don’t forget to keep about 1 tablespoon of those tasty bacon drippings in the skillet!
3. Sauté the Corn:
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add your corn kernels. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re warmed through and slightly caramelized. This adds a nice flavor boost!
4. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nicely mixed.
5. Add the Bacon:
Now, stir in most of your crumbled bacon, saving a little for later as a crunchy topping. This will add that delicious bacon flavor throughout!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer this creamy mixture into a cast iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake the Dip:
Place the skillet or baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to see it bubbling and the cheese melted and just starting to brown.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining bacon and some extra green onions on top for a pop of color and crunch. It’s ready to devour!
9. Enjoy with Dippers:
Serve your Bacon Bliss Hot Corn Dip warm with toasted baguette slices, crunchy crackers, or tortilla chips. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, smoky Bacon Bliss Hot Corn Dip! It’s bound to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix up the cheeses based on your preference. Pepper jack could add a nice kick, or you can use all cheddar, gouda, or even a dairy-free option if desired. Just ensure whatever cheese you choose melts well.
Can I Make This Dip Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and replacing it with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for that depth of flavor. You can also use plant-based bacon for a similar effect if you wish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven until hot, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dip and assemble it in the baking dish a day ahead of time, just cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for the best results.
