Party Corn Appetizer
This Easy traditional corn dip is the ultimate crowd pleasing appetizer, crafted from a creamy base of cream cheese and mayonnaise with sweet corn and a hint of spice. It comes together in just 10 minutes and is perfect for game day gatherings or summer picnics. You will love how this simple recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
I first fell for this style of cream cheese dip during a vibrant potluck, where its simple, comforting richness stood out among more complicated dishes. It has since become my go to for effortless entertaining, especially when I am serving a spread that includes hearty mains like my traditional Italian meatballs or a comforting sweet potato casserole. The combination of cool, creamy dip with the crunch of a tortilla chip feels like a small celebration.
What Makes This Corn Dip Irresistible
- Effortless Preparation: You simply mix the ingredients together for a quick corn dip that is ready in minutes.
- Incredibly Creamy Texture: The blend of cream cheese and mayonnaise creates a luxuriously smooth party appetizer dip.
- Customizable Flavor: It is easy to adjust the spice level or add extra ingredients to make it your own.
- Perfect Make Ahead Dish: The flavors meld beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for preparing ahead of your event.
Your Simple Ingredients for Easy Traditional Corn Dip
Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.
- Cream Cheese: Use full fat, softened cream cheese for the smoothest, creamiest dip base.
- Mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps create a spreadable consistency for this cream cheese dip.
- Whole Kernel Corn: Be sure to drain the canned corn well to prevent a watery dip.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This ingredient provides the classic flavor and a gentle kick.
- Colby Jack Cheese: Shredded cheese adds a wonderful melt in quality and savory depth.
- Green Onions: They offer a fresh, mild bite that brightens the entire dish.
- Garlic Powder: An easy way to incorporate savory, aromatic flavor throughout the dip.

Easy Traditional Corn Dip
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- spatula
- colander
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- knife
- cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 8-oz pkg cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 15-oz cans whole kernel corn well drained
- 1 10-oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies well drained
- 1 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp green onions thinly sliced
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a sturdy spoon or rubber spatula to mix them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps. This creates a uniform base for the dip.
- Open the two 15-ounce cans of whole kernel corn and the 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Drain both thoroughly using a colander, pressing down gently on the solids to remove as much excess liquid as possible. This step is crucial to prevent a watery dip.
- Add the well-drained corn, well-drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese, 2 tablespoons of thinly sliced green onions, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder to the cream cheese mixture in the bowl.
- Using your spoon or spatula, fold and stir all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed and thoroughly combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
- Taste the dip and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Start with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of pepper, then add more if desired, keeping in mind the cheese and diced tomatoes with green chilies already contribute some saltiness.
- Serve the dip immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks. For the best flavor, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to chill and firm up slightly before serving.
Notes
Creative Ways to Customize Your Dip
- Spicy Kick: Add a finely diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Extra Cheesy: Stir in an additional half cup of pepper jack or sharp cheddar cheese.
- Smoky Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few tablespoons of crumbled bacon.
My Pro Tips for Dip Perfection
- Thorough Draining: Press down on the corn and tomatoes in a colander to remove all excess liquid, which is key for a thick, creamy corn dip.
- Room Temperature Base: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing and a perfectly smooth party appetizer dip.
- Season to Taste: Always do a final taste test before serving and adjust salt and pepper, as the cheese and tomatoes add saltiness.
- Chill for Flavor: For the best results, let the dip rest in the fridge for 30 minutes, which allows the flavors to fully blend, much like when preparing a make ahead potato salad.
How to Store Your Leftover Dip
- Store: Keep any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: I do not recommend freezing this dip, as the dairy based ingredients can separate and become watery upon thawing.
- Serve: Give the dip a quick stir after refrigeration, as some separation is natural. Serve it cold.
- Make Ahead Tip: This is an excellent make ahead dish. Prepare it a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge until your party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw it completely and then drain off any excess water thoroughly before adding it to the mixture. This will ensure your dip maintains the right creamy consistency.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
For a tangier flavor, you can substitute an equal amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. This is a great tip for a quick corn dip variation.
How can I make this dip spicier?
To add more heat, include the seeds from the canned green chilies, add a diced fresh jalapeño, or stir in a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce. Adjust the amount to suit your preference for a perfect Mexican style dip.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
This dip is ideal for making ahead. In fact, letting it chill for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just store it covered in the refrigerator.
More Crowd Pleasing Appetizers to Try
- Irresistible Olive Oil Bread Dip
- Cheesy Garlic Bliss Bread
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Cheesy Garlic Rolls
Why This Easy Corn Dip Will Become a Favorite
With its incredible creamy texture and perfectly balanced flavors, this Easy traditional corn dip is guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. It is the simplest way to create a memorable party appetizer that everyone will ask for again and again. I hope you love making and sharing it as much as I do.