Description

This Whipped Ricotta Corn Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for entertaining. Blending fresh ricotta with thyme and crushed red pepper flakes creates a smooth base, complemented by sweet, charred corn. A drizzle of hot honey adds a spicy-sweet finish, making it perfect for serving with crostini or crackers.

Ingredients

Scale

Ricotta Mixture

1 lb. ricotta cheese
2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving
1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Corn

1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn

Toppings and Serving

Store-bought or homemade hot honey, for drizzling
Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Crostini or crackers, for serving

Instructions

Blend the Ricotta: In a food processor, blend the ricotta, fresh thyme leaves, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth, about 2 minutes. While the motor runs, slowly add 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and continue blending until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt if needed. Keep the ricotta mixture in the food processor.
Prepare the Corn: If using frozen corn, place it in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cool water to thaw, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve better charring.
Char the Corn: Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the corn in an even layer and cook undisturbed for 1 minute to allow charring. Stir and continue to cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the corn is well charred and caramelized.
Mix the Corn with Ricotta: Transfer about half of the charred corn back to the food processor with the ricotta mixture and pulse a few times to slightly break down the corn for texture. Do not over blend.
Assemble the Dip: Spoon the whipped ricotta-corn mixture into a serving bowl. Top with the remaining whole charred corn and additional fresh thyme leaves. Drizzle generously with hot honey and sprinkle with flaky sea salt to enhance the flavors.
Serve: Serve the dip immediately alongside crostini or your favorite crackers for a perfect party appetizer.

Notes

For a dairy-free alternative, consider using a plant-based ricotta substitute, though the texture may vary.
If fresh thyme isn’t available, you can substitute with dried thyme, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon as dried herbs are more potent.
Hot honey can be substituted with plain honey or a drizzle of chili oil for a different spicy-sweet flavor.
Make sure to pat frozen corn dry before cooking to achieve the best char without steaming.
This dip is best served fresh but can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: ricotta dip, whipped ricotta, corn dip, appetizer, party dip, charred corn, hot honey dip, easy appetizer