Spinach Corn Dip

Updated: November 20, 2025

Introduction

A vibrant, creamy dip featuring sweet corn, tender wilted spinach, and a zesty lime finish. This dish balances savory, slightly spicy, and tangy notes, making it ideal for sharing at gatherings or as a comforting appetizer.

Preparation & Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

  • 10 ounces baby spinach

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 garlic clove, finely chopped

  • 2 cups corn kernels (from 2 fresh cobs or thawed frozen corn)

  • ½ to 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (or ½ to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes)

  • Handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • 3 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into ½-inch cubes

  • ½ cup grated pecorino or Parmesan cheese

  • 1 to 2 limes, halved (for squeezing)

  • Pita chips, flatbread, crusty baguette, or corn chips (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Spinach

Preheat a medium (10- to 11-inch) ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Once hot, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add baby spinach in batches, tossing frequently as it wilts. Season lightly with salt and pepper after each batch. Press down on the spinach with a spoon to expel excess moisture, then continue cooking until most liquid evaporates (residual moisture is intentional to maintain creaminess), about 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Combine and Melt Cheeses

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, followed by the chopped garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Fold in the corn, jalapeño (or red pepper flakes), and basil. Add the cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella cubes. Season with salt and pepper, then stir constantly until cheeses melt and the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Broil and Finish

Sprinkle the grated pecorino (or Parmesan) evenly over the dip. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil on high heat until the top is golden-brown and bubbling, 4–5 minutes. Monitor closely to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and let the dip rest for 2–3 minutes. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dip to taste, then serve immediately with pita chips, flatbread, or crusty bread.

User Reviews & Adaptations

  • "This sounds like what I want to eat for dinner for the rest of my days..."

  • "I like this recipe! I modified it: used frozen spinach instead of fresh, a mozzarella stick instead of fresh mozzarella, omitted sour cream, and added freshly grated Parmesan + hot sauce. It was delicious."

  • "Trader Joe's elote seasoning would be great with this!"

  • "The corn’s natural sweetness pairs well with lime and extra jalapeño for contrast. Added cumin, paprika, and crushed red pepper; fresh basil just before broiling kept it bright. A family of 6 finished the batch on Christmas Eve!"

  • "It was bland—try adding ½–1 teaspoon of salt to highlight corn sweetness, and an extra jalapeño for heat. Charring corn adds depth!"

Enjoy this versatile dip, tailored to your taste with optional seasonings and substitutions!