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Award-Winning Crack Dip: The Ultimate Irresistible Party Appetizer

Prepare to fall in love with a dip that lives up to its name – our Award-Winning Crack Dip! This incredibly addictive recipe isn’t just another party appetizer; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that guarantees to be the star of any gathering. Boasting a perfect balance of creamy richness, a subtle kick from fresh jalapeños, the sweet crunch of Mexicorn, and the zesty freshness of green onions, this dip is renowned for being the first dish to disappear from the party table. It’s not called “award-winning” without good reason, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why!

Have you ever tried a dish so unexpectedly delicious that you immediately had to ask for the recipe? That’s precisely the story behind this legendary dip. It all began at a lively pool party hosted for my Mother-in-Law’s birthday. The table was laden with an array of delicious homemade contributions from everyone, but one particular dip quickly stole the show. My nephew’s girlfriend, Barbie, brought it over, and it wasn’t long before everyone was flocking around it, scooping up generous portions with an almost frantic enthusiasm. People went absolutely *crazy* for it!

Intrigued and utterly captivated by its flavor, I couldn’t help but ask Barbie, “What on earth is in this stuff? I literally cannot stop eating it!” She chuckled and rattled off a few of the key ingredients, explaining, “It’s just so good, isn’t it? Everyone loves it, that’s why they call it Crack Dip, I guess!” Her words perfectly encapsulated the magic of this appetizer. Seriously, this is not just a dip; it’s the best party dip recipe ever, a true crowd-pleaser that leaves a lasting impression and a yearning for more.

The Unforgettable Story of an Award-Winning Dip

The legend of this dip only grew from there. Shortly after its debut at the pool party, I was invited to a “girls’ night” Christmas party at the home of one of my youngest daughter’s close friends. The hostess had a fun idea: a friendly contest for the best cocktail, dessert, and appetizer, with the women in attendance voting for their favorites in each category. Naturally, I saw this as the perfect opportunity to showcase Barbie’s amazing creation. Having just watched The Grinch earlier that week and enjoying a laugh over its classic lines, I immediately thought, “Award? There’s an award?!”

With confidence, I brought the dip, knowing its power to captivate. And indeed, it swept the appetizer category, earning the coveted “Best Appetizer” award! I couldn’t wait to share the exciting news with Barbie. Her response was equally enthusiastic, sharing that her own mother had taken it to a work potluck earlier that week, and it had generated the same overwhelming demand for the recipe. This dip isn’t just a recipe; it’s a phenomenon. You absolutely *have* to try it for yourself to understand its undeniable appeal. After all, it’s not just delicious; it’s officially “Award Winning!”

Essential Ingredients for Your Award-Winning Crack Dip

Creating this incredibly popular corn crack dip requires a handful of simple, readily available ingredients that, when combined, produce an extraordinary flavor. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the conclusion of this post. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dip so special:

Mexicorn: This is canned corn that comes pre-mixed with diced red and green peppers, adding both color and a mild, sweet pepper flavor. You can typically find it alongside regular canned corn or in the ethnic/Hispanic food section of your grocery store. If Mexicorn isn’t available, simply use regular canned corn and add a tablespoon or two of finely diced red bell pepper for that visual appeal and extra flavor.
Mayonnaise: The foundation of this dip’s creamy texture. For the best, richest flavor and consistency, resist the urge to use fat-free varieties. Opt for full-fat, real mayonnaise, as it makes a noticeable difference in the final product.
Sour Cream: Complementing the mayonnaise, full-fat sour cream adds another layer of tangy creaminess that is crucial to the dip’s signature taste.
Scallions (Green Onions): Don’t be shy with these! You’ll need the green tops of three entire bunches of green onions. While it might sound like a lot, I assure you, this generous amount is essential for the dip’s fresh, zesty flavor and slight crunch. Each bunch usually contains 5-6 onions, so you’re looking at about 15-18 sliced green onions in total.
Canned Diced Green Chilies: These add a mild, earthy pepper flavor without overwhelming heat. Make sure to use the diced variety for even distribution throughout the dip.
Pickled Jalapeños: The secret to that perfect touch of heat. I recommend using pickled jalapeños from a jar, as their pickling brine also contributes a wonderful tangy element. You can easily adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot pickled jalapeños, depending on your preference. Chop them finely for best results.
Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese: A pre-shredded blend of cheeses (often cheddar, Monterey Jack, Asadero, and Colby) works beautifully, offering a melty, savory component. Of course, you can always shred your own cheese for an even fresher taste.
Tortilla Chips for Serving: The classic pairing! However, this versatile dip is also fantastic with sturdy crackers, potato chips, fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots, or even just enjoyed straight from the bowl with a spoon!

Effortless Preparation: How to Make Your Crack Dip

One of the many reasons this Award-Winning Crack Dip is a perennial favorite is its incredible ease of preparation. This isn’t a recipe that demands hours in the kitchen; in fact, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can bring it together. The key to unlocking its full, amazing potential lies not in complex cooking, but in the magic of time and chilling.

For the absolute best results, you’ll want to prepare this delectable cold dip at least 12 hours before you plan to serve it. This extended chilling period is crucial, allowing all the individual flavors—the sweetness of the corn, the tang of the sour cream and jalapeños, the creaminess of the mayo, and the freshness of the green onions—to truly meld and “get acquainted.” In my experience, this process transforms a simply delicious dip into something truly spectacular and unforgettable.

The instructions couldn’t be simpler: begin by combining all of your prepared dip ingredients into a large mixing bowl. A sturdy wooden spoon or a spatula will work perfectly for this. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly distributed. Once mixed, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and transfer it to the refrigerator. Let it chill there for at least 12 hours, or ideally, overnight. The longer it rests, the deeper and more harmonious the flavors will become.

When it’s time to serve, simply scoop your perfectly chilled Crack Dip into an attractive serving bowl. For an appealing presentation, consider sprinkling a few extra fresh green onion slices over the top as a garnish. Arrange an assortment of your favorite dippers around the bowl – classic tortilla chips are a must, but also offer fresh vegetable sticks like crisp celery and crunchy carrot sticks. This dip is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments.

Should you be fortunate enough to have any leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dip holds up beautifully and will remain delicious for up to one week, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for any busy host or hostess.

Loved It? Pin It for Later!

Don’t let this incredible recipe get lost in the shuffle! If you adore this Award-Winning Crack Dip as much as we do, make sure to save it. Pin it to your favorite appetizer or party recipe board on Pinterest before you go, so you can easily find it for your next gathering!

Frequently Asked Questions About This Irresistible Crack Dip Recipe

Over the years, this Crack Dip has consistently ranked as one of my readers’ most beloved recipes. Its popularity often leads to a few common questions. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this delicious and easy dip:

Is it really the tops of 3 whole bunches of green onions? Yes, it truly is! I know it might seem like an unusually large quantity, but trust the process – it works wonders for the flavor and texture. The green onions provide a crucial fresh, crisp bite and a subtle pungency that balances the creamy elements. Typically, the bunches I purchase contain about 5-6 individual onions, meaning you’ll be slicing the green tops from approximately 15-18 green onions. It’s a key component, so don’t skimp!
Do you use jalapeños in the can or the jar? For this recipe, I always use pickled jalapeños that come in a jar. The pickling brine adds an extra layer of tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully, in addition to the heat from the peppers themselves.
Is this dip genuinely spicy? How can I adjust the heat? The way I typically prepare it, this dip offers a mild, pleasant warmth rather than an intense spice. However, it’s incredibly easy to customize the heat level to suit your preference. To give it a more noticeable kick, you can opt for “hot” canned green chilies and “hot” pickled jalapeños. For those who crave serious heat, consider adding some finely minced fresh jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat, keep them for more), or even a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the mix.
What exactly is Mexicorn? Can I substitute it? Mexicorn is a specific type of canned corn that includes diced red and sometimes green peppers, providing extra color and a mild, sweet pepper flavor to the dip. If you can’t locate Mexicorn at your local supermarket, don’t worry! You can easily create a similar effect by using regular canned corn (drained) and stirring in a tablespoon or two of finely diced fresh red bell pepper. If you prefer to use fresh corn, make sure it’s cooked and thoroughly cooled before adding it to the dip.
Is this dip good served warm? I have always served this Award-Winning Crack Dip cold, as its refreshing creaminess is part of its charm. I haven’t personally tried transforming it into a hot dip, but it’s an intriguing idea on my list of things to experiment with! If you decide to try warming it, please let me know your results – I’d love to hear how it turns out!
Can I substitute Greek yogurt or fat-free sour cream for the mayonnaise? While you certainly *can* make substitutions, be aware that replacing real mayonnaise or full-fat sour cream with Greek yogurt or fat-free alternatives will significantly alter the dip’s flavor and texture. The rich, creamy base provided by full-fat dairy and real mayo is fundamental to the authentic taste of this specific “Crack Dip” recipe. For the award-winning experience, I highly recommend sticking to the specified ingredients.

Customizing Your Crack Dip: Exciting Substitutions and Add-ins

While our Award-Winning Crack Dip stands perfect on its own, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Many crack dip recipes incorporate cream cheese, which this one intentionally omits. However, I’ve had readers successfully experiment with replacing the mayonnaise with softened cream cheese, yielding a thicker, tangier dip. If you love the rich texture of cream cheese, this could be a fantastic variation for you to explore.

Another common element in other crack dip recipes is the addition of ranch dressing or ranch seasoning. A few enthusiastic readers have found great success by mixing in a packet of ranch dressing mix or a fiesta ranch packet. This introduces a familiar savory, herby flavor that many find irresistible, making it an excellent option if you’re a fan of ranch-flavored snacks.

Beyond these popular tweaks, there are several other delicious additions you might consider. Finely chopped black olives would offer a briny, savory counterpoint and a lovely visual contrast. For a smoky, salty crunch, adding some crispy real bacon pieces or even good quality bacon bits would elevate this dip to another level of indulgence. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dip truly your own!

Discover More Irresistible Dip Recipes to Love

If you’re a dip enthusiast, you’re in the right place! We believe every occasion calls for a delicious dip. After mastering this Award-Winning Crack Dip, why not explore some of our other cherished dip recipes? Each one is designed to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or a simple snack time.

Cool Spinach Dip (pictured above): A classic, refreshing dip perfect with raw veggies or crusty bread.
Dill Pickle Dip: Tangy, savory, and surprisingly addictive for pickle lovers.
Spinach & Artichoke Dip: A warm and cheesy favorite, ideal for entertaining.
French Onion Dip: Rich and savory, a homemade take on a beloved classic.
Fiesta Corn Dip: Another corn-based delight, packed with vibrant, Tex-Mex flavors.
Crockpot Reuben Dip: All the flavors of a Reuben sandwich, in a warm, comforting dip.
Sauerkraut Bacon & Swiss Dip: A unique and flavorful blend for adventurous palates.

Browse ALL of Our Amazing DIP RECIPES Here!

This Award-Winning Crack Dip is more than just a recipe; it’s a guaranteed hit for your next party, game night, holiday gathering, or any festive occasion. Its ease of preparation, combined with its universally loved flavors, makes it an absolute must-try. Let’s get mixing and create some legendary corn dip!

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Close up of {Award Winning} Crack Dip in a black bowl with chips around it

Average Rating: 4.48 from 1907 votes

Print Recipe

{Award Winning} “Crack Dip”

This dip is deliciously addictive! Creamy dip with a little bit of heat from the jalapeños, bursting with flavor from the MexiCorn and the green onions. This is a hit and the first thing gone at every party — It isn’t “award winning” for nothing!

Prep Time: 10 mins

Chill Time: 12 hrs

Total Time: 12 hrs 10 mins

Course: Dips

Cuisine: American

Keyword: corn dip, crack dip, dip

Servings: 18 servings

Calories: 112 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Ingredients

2 (11 ounce) cans Mexicorn – drained
1 cup real mayonnaise
1 cup real sour cream
3 bunches green onions – just the tops, sliced
1 (4.5 ounce) can green chilies, diced
1/3 cup pickled jalapeños – chopped
1 (8 ounce) package of Shredded Mexican Blend cheese
Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

Combine all of the dip contents together in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly. Place the mixture in the fridge. For optimal flavor, I strongly suggest making it 12 hours ahead, or even the day before. The flavors will deepen and meld beautifully over time! Serve with plenty of crispy tortilla chips.

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