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Flavorful Firecracker Jalapeño Popper Dip

A creamy, cheesy, and spicy jalapeño popper dip perfect for game day or parties, delivering a smoky kick and a bubbly golden crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (120 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (120 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
  • 34 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 6 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup (30 g) extra shredded cheddar for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Remove stems and seeds from jalapeños, then finely chop. Optionally roast jalapeños for 10 minutes until slightly charred before chopping.
  3. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sour cream until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes with an electric mixer).
  4. Fold in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined but still textured.
  5. Gently fold in jalapeños, bacon, and green onions, reserving a small handful of bacon and onions for topping.
  6. Transfer the mixture to an 8×8 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the reserved bacon, green onions, and extra cheddar on top for a golden crust.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges bubble and top is lightly browned. If not golden after 25 minutes, broil for 1-2 minutes carefully.
  9. Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving to thicken.

Notes

Roasting jalapeños mellows heat and adds smoky flavor. Soften cream cheese well to avoid lumps. Watch the dip near the end of baking to prevent burning. Resting the dip after baking thickens it for easier scooping. Bacon can be substituted with turkey bacon or smoked sausage. For vegetarian version, omit bacon and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke. Use plant-based cheeses for vegan adaptation.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper dip, spicy dip, firecracker dip, cheesy dip, game day snack, party appetizer, creamy dip