Jalapeno Popper Dip
This hot and cheesy dip combines the perfect balance of creaminess and heat, transforming the traditional hand-held popper into a communal experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you're hosting game day festivities or simply craving something indulgent, this spicy, cheese-laden masterpiece satisfies in ways that few other appetizers can.
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish or 1-quart baking dish
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened (substitute Neufchâtel for a lighter option)
- 1 cup sour cream Greek yogurt works as a tangy alternative
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided (sharp cheddar provides the most robust flavor)
- 6 fresh jalapenos seeded and diced (leave seeds in 1-2 peppers for extra heat)
- 4 slices bacon cooked crisp and crumbled (turkey bacon offers a leaner option)
- 3 green onions thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced (garlic powder works in a pinch)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs gluten-free breadcrumbs work well too
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened to room temperature for at least 30 minutes before starting.
- Prepare the jalapenos by slicing them lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes (unless you want extra heat), and dicing finely. Consider wearing gloves to protect your hands.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream until completely smooth. An electric mixer on medium speed works best. Incorporate 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar, reserving the remaining ½ cup for topping.
- Fold in the diced jalapenos, crumbled bacon, two-thirds of the green onions, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly but gently to maintain texture variation.
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese to create the topping.
- Transfer your mixture to a 9-inch pie dish or 1-quart baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes until bubbling around the edges and golden brown on top. For an extra golden finish, broil for the final 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish with remaining green onions. Serve hot with toasted baguette slices, crunchy vegetables, pretzel crisps or sturdy tortilla chips.
Notes
For a milder version, substitute poblano peppers which offer similar flavor with approximately 70% less heat.
Make-ahead tip: Assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance but add the topping just before baking to prevent soggy breadcrumbs.
For a healthier version, replace half the cream cheese with white beans pureed with a touch of lemon juice, and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
For keto dieters, replace breadcrumbs with a mixture of crushed pork rinds and almond flour.
Nutrition
Calories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 8gFat: 22gSodium: 410mgFiber: 0.5g
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