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Creamy Jalapeño Popper Dip

creamy jalapeño popper dip - featured image

A creamy, spicy, and smoky dip featuring cream cheese, sharp cheddar, jalapeños, and crispy bacon. Perfect for gatherings and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 115 grams)
  • 23 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • 6 strips bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
  • ½ cup sour cream (120 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 stalks green onions, finely sliced

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Place 6 bacon strips in a cold frying pan and cook over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, flipping as needed until crispy. Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels. Once cool, chop into small pieces. (Optional: Save a teaspoon of the bacon fat for flavoring the dip.)
  2. Prepare the jalapeños: Wearing gloves if sensitive, slice 2-3 jalapeños in half, remove seeds and membranes to control heat, then finely chop. Set aside.
  3. Beat the cream cheese: In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  4. Add remaining ingredients: Fold in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ½ cup sour cream, chopped jalapeños, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly.
  5. Incorporate the bacon: Stir in the chopped crispy bacon, reserving a small handful for topping. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Optional baking: Transfer the mixture to an 8-inch baking dish, sprinkle the reserved bacon on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top. Serve warm or at room temperature with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggie sticks.

Notes

Soften cream cheese to avoid lumps. Remove jalapeño seeds to reduce heat or leave some for more spice. Cook bacon slowly for crispiness and drain well to avoid greasy dip. Optional baking adds a bubbly, golden top but can be skipped for a creamier texture. Serve warm but not piping hot.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper dip, creamy dip, bacon dip, party appetizer, spicy dip, easy dip recipe