Corn Frito Dip is a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a simple snack at home. Combining creamy mayo, tangy sour cream, vibrant Mexicorn, spicy Rotel diced green chiles, fresh green onions, and rich cheddar cheese, this dip is bursting with flavor. Served with Fritos or your favorite tortilla chips, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into this recipe and explore how to make it step-by-step, along with tips, variations, and frequently asked questions.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of Mexicorn (drained)
- 1 can of Rotel diced green chiles (regular or hot)
- 8 green onions, sliced
- 1 cup mayo
- 8 oz sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Drain and Slice:
- Start by draining the cans of Mexicorn and Rotel diced green chiles to remove any excess liquid. This step is crucial to ensure your dip isn’t too watery.
- Slice the green onions thinly. The green onions add a fresh, slightly pungent flavor that complements the creamy base and the sweetness of the corn.
Step 2: Mix the Base
- Combine Mayo and Sour Cream:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayo and 8 oz of sour cream. Stir until well blended. The mayo adds richness and creaminess, while the sour cream provides a tangy contrast.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
- Mix in the Vegetables:
- Add the drained Mexicorn, Rotel diced green chiles, and sliced green onions to the mayo and sour cream mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. The Mexicorn adds sweetness and a slight crunch, while the Rotel adds a bit of heat and acidity.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Incorporate the Cheese:
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. The cheese adds a rich, savory flavor and helps to thicken the dip.
Step 5: Chill the Dip
- Refrigerate:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the dip to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Chilling also helps the dip to thicken and makes it easier to scoop with chips.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Corn Frito Dip chilled, with Fritos or your favorite tortilla chips for dipping. The salty crunch of the chips pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy dip. Garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Mexicorn: Mexicorn is a blend of corn and bell peppers. If you can’t find Mexicorn, you can use regular canned corn and add finely diced bell peppers.
- Rotel: Rotel diced green chiles come in different heat levels. Choose regular for a milder dip or hot for a spicier version. You can also use a different brand of diced tomatoes and green chiles.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a robust flavor, but you can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Mayo and Sour Cream: For a lighter version, you can use light mayo and light sour cream. Greek yogurt can also be substituted for the sour cream.
Variations
Spicy Corn Frito Dip
- Add Heat:
- If you like your dip extra spicy, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also use hot Rotel diced green chiles for an added kick.
Bacon Corn Frito Dip
- Add Bacon:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory addition. Bacon pairs wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy base and adds a delicious crunch.
Southwestern Corn Frito Dip
- Southwestern Twist:
- Add 1/2 cup of black beans (drained and rinsed) and 1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper for a Southwestern twist. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add texture and color to the dip.
Cheesy Corn Frito Dip
- Extra Cheese:
- For cheese lovers, increase the amount of shredded cheddar cheese to 3 cups. You can also mix in different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a more complex flavor.
Avocado Corn Frito Dip
- Add Avocado:
- For a creamy, fresh twist, add diced avocado to the dip just before serving. The avocado adds a rich, buttery texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Corn Frito Dip is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for serving:
With Chips
- Fritos:
- The classic choice for this dip is Fritos. Their salty, crunchy texture is the perfect complement to the creamy dip.
- Tortilla Chips:
- Tortilla chips are another excellent option. Choose thick, sturdy chips that can hold up to the hearty dip.
- Pita Chips:
- For a slightly different twist, serve the dip with pita chips. Their crispy, slightly chewy texture pairs well with the creamy dip.
As a Topping
- Tacos:
- Use the dip as a topping for tacos. It adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs well with spicy taco fillings.
- Baked Potatoes:
- Spoon the dip over baked potatoes for a flavorful twist on a classic side dish.
- Nachos:
- Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with the dip, and bake until warm and bubbly for a delicious plate of nachos.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Veggie Platter:
- Serve the dip with a variety of fresh vegetables, such as carrot sticks, celery, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes. The fresh crunch of the veggies pairs well with the creamy dip.
As a Side Dish
- Barbecue:
- This dip makes a great side dish for barbecue. Serve it alongside grilled meats and other barbecue favorites.
- Picnic:
- Pack the dip in a picnic basket along with sandwiches, fruit, and other picnic staples for a delicious outdoor meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time? A: Yes, Corn Frito Dip can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld together even more, making it even tastier.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again to reincorporate any separated ingredients.
Q: Can I freeze this dip? A: It’s not recommended to freeze this dip, as the texture of the mayo and sour cream can change when frozen and thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? A: Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. It adds a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, with the added benefit of extra protein.
Q: What can I serve with Corn Frito Dip besides chips? A: This dip pairs well with fresh vegetables, pita chips, or as a topping for tacos, baked potatoes, or nachos. It’s versatile and complements many different dishes.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend are all great options.
Q: Is there a way to make this dip lighter? A: To make a lighter version of this dip, use light mayo and light sour cream or substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. These changes will reduce the calorie and fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Q: How can I make this dip spicier? A: To add more heat, use hot Rotel diced green chiles and add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also add finely chopped jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.
Corn Frito Dip is a flavorful, easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy base, vibrant veggies, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dip is simple to prepare and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this tasty treat with your family and friends!
