This Cheese Masala Corn Dip is an Indian-inspired twist on a classic party dip. It combines sweet corn with cream cheese, mozzarella, and sour cream, while a blend of Indian spices gives it bold, unique flavor. Serve warm with sliced baguette, crostini, or tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears quickly.
Dips always go first at gatherings, and while I often rotate favorites like Spinach Jalapeno dip or a Mexican 7-layer party dip, this masala corn version has become a new staple. I made it for a Galentine’s Day party and haven’t stopped making it since. If you want a different, flavorful dip for your next get-together, try this desi-style version—it’s addictive and easy to prepare.
Ingredients for easy corn dip.
The ingredients are mostly pantry and fridge staples. I used frozen corn—both plain yellow sweet corn and a roasted variety—to add depth. Cream cheese, sour cream, spices, and shredded cheese round out the base. Minimal chopping is required; onion and bell peppers are optional but add great flavor and crunch.
Sweet Corn
Frozen corn is convenient and works well here. I use a mix of plain yellow sweet corn and roasted sweet corn for a slightly smoky note. Both varieties are easy to find in the grocery freezer section and make the recipe simple and quick.
Onion and bell peppers
Chopped onion and colorful bell peppers give the dip texture and a fresh bite. They’re optional but recommended.
Green chilies and Garlic
Garlic adds essential depth; green chilies bring heat. If you prefer less spice, omit or reduce the chilies, but keep the garlic for flavor.
Masala aka spices
Pav Bhaji masala is the star spice here, lending a bright, unmistakably Indian flavor. If you don’t have it, a smaller amount of garam masala can substitute. The recipe also uses red chili powder and black pepper to balance heat and warmth.
Tomato puree
A splash of tomato puree or canned tomato sauce adds zing and acidity to balance the creaminess of the cheeses.
Heavy cream
Just a little heavy cream smooths the tomato puree and prevents the dairy from curdling while adding richness.
Cheese
Part-skim mozzarella works well for melting and stretching; you can substitute other good-melting cheeses if desired.
Sour cream
Full-fat sour cream gives the dip a creamy, tangy finish. Low-fat versions can be used but will be less rich.
Cream cheese
A full-fat block of cream cheese provides a smooth base. Whipped cream cheese spread will also work in a pinch.
Possible substitutes.
- Use any preferred frozen corn variety.
- Swap mozzarella for Amul, white cheddar, or another melting cheese.
- If you don’t have pav bhaji masala, use half the amount of garam masala.
- If you omit heavy cream, leave out the tomato puree as well to avoid curdling.
Expert suggestions
- This dip is great straight from the oven but also excellent at room temperature, so it’s easy to serve at parties without precise timing.
- Taste as you go and adjust spices to your preference—add more or less heat as desired.
- Baking is optional; the skillet version is delicious too, so you can make it without an oven.
- Any good-quality frozen corn will work.
Storage information.
- Make the dip ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It’s convenient for party meal prep.
- Freezing is not recommended, as the texture changes after thawing.
Exciting ways to use the dip.
- Enjoy the masala corn dip warm or cold—both ways are delicious.
- Leftovers make a great filling for grilled sandwiches or a spread for tortillas and roll-ups.
KEEP IN TOUCH – Are we friends yet? Let’s connect on Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter. Never miss a recipe—subscribe to the blog for free and check out easy recipe videos on the YouTube channel. Pin this photo for future reference.
Easy Recipes for a Party to try!
Schezwan Paneer Cigars
Pesto Caprese Sandwich
Deconstructed Spring Rolls
Veg Puff
Hariyali Kebabs
Cheese Masala Corn Dip Recipe
Cheese Masala Corn Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoon cooking oil
- ½ cup white or yellow onion, chopped
- 10 oz frozen fire-roasted corn
- 10 oz frozen yellow corn
- ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon jarred jalapenos, diced (medium heat)
Spices used
- 2 tablespoons Pav Bhaji Masala
- 2 teaspoon red chili powder (lal mirch)
- Salt to taste
- Couple twists black pepper
- ¼ cup tomato puree
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese block
- ¾ cup mozzarella, divided
Garnish (Optional)
- Fistful of chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat oil in a medium pan.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and jalapenos; sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in red chili powder, pav bhaji masala, salt, tomato puree, chopped bell peppers, both corns, and black pepper; cook for 30 seconds.
- Mix in the heavy cream and combine quickly.
- Turn off the heat and add sour cream, cream cheese, and half the mozzarella.
- Stir gently a few times; residual heat will melt the cheeses.
- Transfer the mixture to a bake-safe dish and top with the remaining mozzarella.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and melted.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
- Allow the dip to rest for about 10 minutes, then serve with tortilla chips, sliced baguettes, or crostinis.
Notes
This recipe yields about 20 servings when offered alongside other appetizers. You can scale the recipe up or down as needed.
Possible substitutes.
- Use any frozen corn brand or variety (about 2.5–3 cups total).
- Fresh green chilies can replace jarred ones—note fresh chilies may be spicier.
- Swap mozzarella for Amul cheese or white cheddar if preferred.
- If pav bhaji masala isn’t available, use half the amount of garam masala.
- If skipping heavy cream, omit the tomato puree to prevent curdling.
Expert suggestions
- The dip is excellent both hot and at room temperature, making it easy to serve at parties without precise timing.
- Adjust seasoning and spice levels to taste as you cook.
- If you don’t have an oven, the skillet version is tasty without baking.
Storage information.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Exciting ways to use the dip.
Serve warm or cold. Use leftovers as a sandwich filling or a tortilla spread for roll-ups—either way, it’s delicious.
Nutrition
| Calories: 91 kcal
| Carbohydrates: 9 g
| Protein: 2 g
| Fat: 6 g