Every great party needs a show-stopping dip, one that makes people forget all about the main course and gather around the appetizer table. We've taken the beloved flavors of a summer barbecue—sweet corn, smoky cheddar, and a touch of heat—and baked them into the ultimate creamy, shareable comfort food. This Charred Corn & Smoked Cheddar Dip is rich, gooey, and packed with texture, but it's our Scorpion Gourmet Hot Sauce that truly sets it apart.
This isn't just a dip with a kick; it's a masterclass in balance. The luxurious combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and smoked cheddar creates a rich, fatty canvas that is the perfect partner for our Original Hot Sauce. The creaminess tames the sauce's 'satisfying sting,' transforming it into a warm, building heat that allows the complex flavors of roasted garlic and carrot within the sauce to shine through. The result is a dip where every scoop is a perfect harmony of fresh corn, smoky cheddar, creamy texture, and bold heat—a combination that is downright addictive.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Fresh or Frozen Corn Kernels - If using frozen, thaw and pat dry.
- 8 oz (1 block) Cream Cheese - Softened to room temperature.
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 cups Smoked Cheddar Cheese - Shredded, divided (1 cup for mix, 1 cup for topping).
- 1/2 cup Red Onion - Finely diced.
- 2 cloves Garlic - Minced.
- 2-3 tbsp Scorpion Gourmet Hot Sauce - Adjust to taste.
- 1 tbsp Lime Juice - Freshly squeezed.
- 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin
- To taste Salt and Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Neutral Oil - For charring corn.
- 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro or Chives - Chopped, for garnish.
Instructions
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Char the Corn
Heat the oil in a large cast-iron or non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the corn kernels and let them sit without stirring for 2-3 minutes to get a good char. Stir and repeat until about half the kernels have blackened spots. Transfer to a bowl and let cool slightly.
The charred corn adds essential smoky depth that stands up to our bold Extra Hot Sauce. -
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to beat until smooth and well combined.
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Combine the Dip Mixture
To the creamy base, add 1 cup of the shredded smoked cheddar, the diced red onion, minced garlic, Scorpion Gourmet Hot Sauce (start with 2 tbsp), lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Fold in the charred corn until everything is evenly distributed.
Our Extra Hot Sauce integrates perfectly into the rich base, creating layers of flavor that build with each bite. -
Taste and Adjust
This is a crucial step! Taste the dip mixture. Add more salt, pepper, or Scorpion Hot Sauce to your preference. Remember, you can always add more heat, but you can't take it out.
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Bake to Bubbly Perfection
Transfer the dip mixture to a greased or parchment-lined oven-safe skillet or a 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded smoked cheddar evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the dip is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
The final bake creates irresistible crispy edges and a cheese crust that complements our Extra Hot Sauce's intensity. -
Garnish and Serve
Remove the dip from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes—this makes it easier to scoop. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro or chives. Serve warm.
Pro Tips
- Don't Skip the Char: The charred flavor on the corn is what gives this dip its depth. Don't stir too often—let those kernels get some color!
- Room Temperature is Key: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened. This is the secret to a perfectly smooth, lump-free dip base.
- Taste Before You Bake: Always taste the raw mixture and adjust the seasoning and heat level. The flavors will meld but won't change dramatically in the oven.
- Perfect for Making Ahead: You can assemble the entire dip (except for the final cheese topping) a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then top with cheese and bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Recipe Variations
- Add Some Protein: For a heartier dip, stir in 1/2 cup of crumbled cooked bacon or diced cooked chorizo along with the corn.
- Different Smokes: Experiment with other smoked cheeses like Gouda or sharp Provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it Up Further: Add a finely diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) for an extra layer of fresh chili flavor.
- Cold Dip Version: Skip the baking! Simply mix all ingredients, cover, and chill for at least 2 hours for a refreshing cold corn dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dip piping hot from the oven with a vibrant array of dippers. Sturdy tortilla chips are a classic choice, but also consider sliced baguette, pita chips, pretzel rods, or even fresh veggie sticks like bell peppers and cucumber for a lighter option. A crisp, cold lager or a zesty margarita are the perfect beverages to cut through the richness of the dip. For the true heat-seekers, place the bottle of Scorpion Gourmet Hot Sauce right on the table for an extra dash of fire.
Conclusion
This Charred Corn & Smoked Cheddar Dip is more than just a party appetizer; it's a testament to the power of a well-balanced hot sauce as a key ingredient. The Scorpion Gourmet Hot Sauce doesn't just add heat—it adds a layer of complex, savory flavor that elevates the entire dish, cutting through the richness and making each bite exciting. Let this recipe be your inspiration to start cooking *with* hot sauce, not just adding it at the end. Imagine swirling it into mac and cheese, mixing it into burger meat, or drizzling it over pizza. The possibilities are as endless as they are delicious.
