Spicy Southern Hot Corn Recipe

When I first stumbled upon this Spicy Southern Hot Corn recipe, I knew it would become a favorite in my kitchen. And boy, was I right! The first time I made it, the creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors had everyone hooked. It’s the ultimate comfort food that works both as a side dish and a crowd-pleasing dip. Trust me, whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck, this dish never fails to impress.

One of the best things about this recipe? It’s incredibly versatile. I love the way it combines the sweetness of corn with the heat of jalapeños, all tied together with a gooey layer of cheese. Plus, it’s so easy to adjust depending on how spicy your guests like it. This dish is now a staple for holidays, football Sundays, and anytime I need a quick, delicious crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Follow this recipe to enjoy a creamy, spicy, and ultra-cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion! 🧀🔥

Perfect Combination of Creamy and Spicy

The balance between the rich, creamy base and the spicy jalapeños is a match made in flavor heaven. It’s indulgent with just the right kick!

Versatility at Its Best

Whether you serve it as a dip, a side dish, or even as a filling for wraps, this recipe fits just about any occasion. It’s perfect for dinners, potlucks, and parties.

Quick and Easy Prep

With just a few minutes of chopping and some simple steps, this dish comes together in no time. You can even prepare it ahead for convenience.

Fully Customizable

Not a fan of too much heat? Simply tone it down by adjusting the jalapeños or leave them out completely. Want it extra cheesy? Sprinkle on more grated cheddar before baking.

Great for Make-Ahead and Leftovers

This dish tastes just as good (if not better!) when reheated. It’s a meal-prep win, making your holiday cooking less stressful.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• Corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• Red bell pepper
• Fresh jalapeños
• Pickled jalapeños
• Butter
• Cream cheese
• Paprika
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Mild Version
  Skip the jalapeños or replace them with diced green bell peppers for a milder kick.
• Spicy Extra Heat
  Add more diced pickled jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a fiery boost.
• Cheesy Upgrade
  Mix in a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra ooey-gooey deliciousness.
• Meat Lover’s Twist
  Stir in crumbled bacon or diced ham to complement the creamy corn.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing Bowl – To combine the ingredients.
• Saucepan – For melting butter and cream cheese.
• Casserole Dish – To bake the dish to bubbly perfection.
• Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping the veggies.
• Wooden Spoon – Ideal for stirring the mixture over heat.

How to Make Spicy Southern Hot Corn?

Follow this easy recipe for a creamy, cheesy, and spicy Southern hot corn dish that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! 🔥🌽

Prep the Vegetables 🌽

Start by chopping your red bell pepper and both the fresh and pickled jalapeños. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it ahead of time.

Melt the Base 🧈

Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Once it melts, stir in the cream cheese, letting them combine until you’ve got a smooth, creamy base. Stir often to prevent sticking.

Add the Veggies 🥕

Next, mix in your corn, red bell peppers, fresh jalapeños, and pickled jalapeños. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly so the spices and creamy base coat every piece of vegetable.

Stir in the Cheese 🧀

Add some of the grated cheddar cheese into the mixture, stirring until it melts completely. Keep a little extra cheese for topping!

Bake Until Bubbly 🔥

Pour the mixture into your casserole dish and top it with the remaining cheddar cheese. Pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Serve & Enjoy ❤️

Once baked, take it out and serve hot. Be ready for everyone to gather around the table because the aroma is irresistible!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Softened Cream Cheese
  Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier melting and a smoother mixture.
• Adjust the Heat
  Taste-test as you go and adjust the jalapeños to control the spice level. Add hot sauce if you want even more heat!
• Don’t Skip the Stirring
  While melting the base, keep stirring to avoid clumped cream cheese and uneven flavors.
• Serve Fresh
  For the best texture and flavor, serve the dish right out of the oven. It’s worth the time!

How to Serve Spicy Southern Hot Corn?

This dish is as versatile in presentation as it is in preparation. For a casual get-together, serve it as a dip paired with tortilla chips, warm baguette slices, or crackers. If it’s part of a holiday spread, keep it as a creamy and spicy side dish alongside roasted turkey or ham.

To dress it up, sprinkle a little fresh cilantro or parsley over the top before serving. A drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream can also add a fun flavor twist. The vibrant colors of this dish make it a great centerpiece on any table!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this irresistible dish offers the following approximate nutrition:

• Calories: 206
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 14g

Make Ahead and Storage

Spicy Southern Hot Corn is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Assemble it the night before and place it in the fridge, covered with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to serve, simply bake it fresh.

Leftovers? Save them for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, choose one of the following methods:

• Oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
• Stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave in short intervals until warm and bubbly.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish, but keep in mind the creaminess might change slightly when reheated. Whether served fresh or reheated, this dish is nothing short of a crowd favorite.

For a visual guide, watch the full recipe video here: