Name: Jalapeño Popper Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/4 to 1/2 cup chopped jalapeños (canned or fresh); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/3 cup crumbled bacon (optional); 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is a guaranteed hit for its irresistible combination of creamy texture and zesty flavor. It’s easy to make ahead, bakes in under 30 minutes, and delivers big flavor with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something savory and satisfying, this dip hits the spot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream cheese
Sour cream
Mayonnaise
Shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Canned or fresh jalapeños, chopped
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Crumbled bacon (optional)
Panko breadcrumbs
Butter
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
Stir in cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and cooked crumbled bacon if using.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the dip.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until hot and bubbly with a golden-brown topping.
Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8–10 people as an appetizer.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Extra spicy: Use fresh jalapeños with seeds or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Mild version: Use canned jalapeños or reduce the amount to control heat.
Add protein: Mix in shredded chicken or more bacon for a heartier dip.
Different cheeses: Swap in pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda.
Low-carb option: Serve with sliced bell peppers or cucumber rounds instead of chips.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm throughout, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Avoid reheating the breadcrumb topping in the microwave if you want to keep it crisp—reheat in the oven for best results.

FAQs

What kind of jalapeños should I use?

You can use either fresh or canned jalapeños. Fresh give a more intense heat, while canned are milder and slightly tangy.

Can I make Jalapeño Popper Dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dip ahead, cover, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.

Is this dip really spicy?

It can be, depending on the amount and type of jalapeños used. You can adjust the heat to your liking.

Can I make this dip without bacon?

Absolutely. The bacon is optional and can be left out for a vegetarian version.

What should I serve with Jalapeño Popper Dip?

It pairs well with tortilla chips, pita chips, crackers, or fresh veggie sticks.

Can I freeze this dip?

It’s best enjoyed fresh. Cream cheese can change texture after freezing, so it’s not recommended.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping entirely. Also ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use light cream cheese or low-fat ingredients?

Yes, but the texture and flavor might be slightly different. It will still be delicious.

How do I keep the dip warm for a party?

Transfer it to a slow cooker on the “warm” setting or use a warming tray.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in a larger dish. You may need to increase the bake time slightly.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Popper Dip is the ultimate party appetizer—rich, creamy, and full of flavor with a kick of heat. It’s incredibly easy to throw together and endlessly customizable, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just indulging in a savory snack, this dip is sure to be a hit every time.

Jalapeño Popper Dip

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This Jalapeño Popper Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and spicy appetizer that combines all the flavors of jalapeño poppers in an easy-to-make baked dip. Perfect for parties, game days, or any casual gathering.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
Stir in cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and crumbled bacon if using.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the dip.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until hot and bubbly with a golden-brown topping.
Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Adjust the heat level by using more or fewer jalapeños, or swap canned for fresh.
This dip can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping.
Reheat leftovers in the oven to keep the topping crispy.
Pairs well with chips, crackers, or veggie sticks.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
Calories: 280
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 50mg