Jalapeño Popper Dip

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Creamy, cheesy, and packed with just the right amount of heat, Jalapeño Popper Dip is everything you love about jalapeño poppers—only easier to make and perfect for a crowd. With its bubbling golden top and gooey, spicy center, this dip is a guaranteed hit whether you’re hosting game night, a holiday gathering, or just indulging in some bold comfort food. It takes all the best parts of the beloved appetizer—cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, and crispy toppings—and transforms them into a warm, scoopable treat.

The beauty of this dish lies in its texture and flavor balance. You get the smooth richness of cream cheese, the sharp bite of aged cheddar, the crunch of baked golden cheese, and that unmistakable kick from fresh jalapeños. It’s both satisfying and addictive, best served hot with crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted baguette slices. Whether you’re after a quick party snack or an easy recipe to spice up your weekend, this one brings the heat and the flavor.

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Ingredients for this Jalapeño Popper Dip

• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4–5 jalapeños, seeded and diced (adjust for heat preference)
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional but recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Topping:

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Sliced fresh jalapeños and chopped parsley (optional garnish)

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Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish (around 9×9 inches or similar) with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy scooping later.

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Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Beat or stir until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy. This creates the rich base that holds everything together.

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Step 3: Add the Flavor

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined and distributed throughout the creamy base.

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Step 4: Fill the Baking Dish

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth out the top using a spatula to create an even layer. This will help the topping brown evenly and give your dip a polished finish.

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Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the crushed crackers, grated parmesan cheese, and melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle this evenly over the top of the dip mixture in the baking dish.

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Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dip is hot and bubbling around the edges.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh sliced jalapeños and chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh touch. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or toasted bread.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s that good), store the Jalapeño Popper Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts until hot, or warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes.

For longer storage, you can also freeze this dip. Place it in a freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: ~290
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 430mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 10g

Note: Nutrition may vary slightly depending on the brands and optional ingredients used (like bacon).

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Just bake as directed when you’re ready to serve.

2. How spicy is this dip?

It has a mild to medium kick. If you’re heat-sensitive, use fewer jalapeños or remove all the seeds. Want it spicier? Add some diced pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

3. What can I use instead of crackers for the topping?

Crushed tortilla chips, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed cornflakes also work great for a crispy topping.

4. Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.

5. What should I serve with Jalapeño Popper Dip?

Tortilla chips, crostini, crackers, celery sticks, and even sliced bell peppers pair well with this dip.

6. Can I use canned or pickled jalapeños instead of fresh?

Yes, but keep in mind they may add more moisture and a different flavor profile. Drain well before adding.

7. Can I double this recipe?

Totally! Just use a larger baking dish and add 5–10 more minutes to the baking time.

8. How do I keep it warm at parties?

Serve it in a mini slow cooker or a warming tray to keep it hot and melty throughout the event.

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