Ingredients:
- 22 oz Mexicorn (2 cans, 11 oz each), thoroughly drained and patted dry
- 4 oz fire-roasted chopped green chiles (1 can)
- 1 medium fresh jalapeño, finely minced
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 0.5 cup real mayonnaise
- 0.5 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
- The Dry-Prep Phase: Empty the cans of Mexicorn into a colander. Let sit for 5 minutes, then spread the corn onto a layer of paper towels. Press down firmly to remove excess moisture to ensure the dip remains thick.
- The Creamy Integration: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Fold in the sour cream, mayonnaise, smoked paprika, and garlic powder using a rubber spatula.
- Folding: Once the base is unified, fold in the dried Mexicorn, chopped green chiles, minced jalapeño, and half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- The Thermal Finish: Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the top shows mahogany-colored spots.
- Garnish: Remove from the oven and top with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions before serving hot.