Creamy and Spicy Jalapeño Popper Dip: A Perfect Party Pleaser

Ingredients

  • 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies, drained
  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced jalapeno peppers, drained
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup canned diced jalapenos (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, green chilies, diced jalapeno peppers, and half of the Parmesan cheese until well combined.
  3. Stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and optional extra jalapenos if you like it spicier.
  4. Spread this mixture into a shallow baking dish.
  5. In another bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
  6. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cream cheese blend in the baking dish.
  7. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dip is bubbling.
  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Instead of using Panko breadcrumbs, you can try using crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy Mexican twist.
  • For a gluten-free option, replace the Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • If you prefer a meat-free version, you can omit the diced jalapenos and green chilies and add in chopped roasted red peppers or corn kernels instead.
  • Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the dip mixture for a delicious bacon-jalapeno combination.
  • For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the dip mixture.
  • Try using different types of cheese such as pepper jack, smoked gouda, or feta to give the dip a unique flavor.
  • To make it healthier, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and reduce the amount of cheese used.

Recipe overview

Enjoy the spicy and creamy goodness of Jalapeno popper dip, a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering. This dip packs the flavors of a jalapeno popper into a simple, scoopable form. With a variety of cheeses, jalapenos for a spicy kick, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this dip is a mix of textures and flavors that are sure to satisfy. It's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for your next get-together. Pair it with a bag of sturdy tortilla chips, and watch as it disappears from the bowl. Let's dig in and get started on making this irresistible Jalapeno popper dip.

Common questions

  1. Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dip ahead of time. Prepare the dip as instructed, but instead of baking it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and then bake it according to the recipe instructions.
  2. Can I use fresh jalapeno peppers instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh jalapeno peppers instead of canned. Simply finely chop the fresh jalapenos and use them in place of the canned diced jalapenos. Adjust the amount according to your preferred level of heat.
  3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese. However, keep in mind that the combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese gives this dip its classic flavor. If you decide to use different cheeses, make sure they melt well and complement the other flavors in the dip.
  4. What can I serve with this dip? This jalapeno popper dip pairs well with tortilla chips, crackers, baguette slices, or even vegetable sticks. Choose your favorite dippers for a delicious snacking experience!
  5. Can I adjust the level of spiciness? Absolutely! If you prefer a milder dip, you can reduce the amount of diced jalapenos or omit the optional extra jalapenos altogether. On the other hand, if you want it to be spicier, you can increase the amount of jalapenos or add some crushed red pepper flakes.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking dish - A shallow baking dish to bake the dip in.
  • Mixing bowl - A medium-sized bowl for mixing the cream cheese blend.
  • Spatula - A utensil to help spread and smooth the cream cheese mixture in the baking dish.
  • Baking sheet - A flat baking sheet to place the baking dish on while baking.
  • Oven mitts - To handle the hot baking dish and baking sheet when removing them from the oven.
  • Serving platter - A platter or plate to present the dip for serving.
  • Dipping chips or bread - To enjoy the delicious jalapeno popper dip.

Origin stories

The Jalapeno Popper Dip takes its inspiration from a classic Mexican dish called chiles rellenos or stuffed peppers. The dish is typically made by stuffing jalapeno peppers with cheese or meat and then frying them. The American adaptation, known as jalapeno poppers, became popular in Texas in the 1970s and quickly spread nationwide due to their addictive combination of spicy peppers and creamy cheese. This dip version is a more recent innovation, designed to deliver all the flavors of traditional jalapeno poppers in a form that's easy to share at parties. It's a testament to the ongoing creativity and evolution found in Tex-Mex cuisine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.