Jalapeno Popper Dip Recipe

I adore making recipes that blend together bold flavors and creamy, luxurious textures. And my version of Jalapeno Popper Dip is a perfect example.

The base consists of softened cream cheese and sour cream. The first ingredient alone is, well, dreamy.

In this dip, you’re getting the richness of bold Cheddar and the creamy stretch of mozzarella. There’s a good chance you’ve had Jalapeno Popper Dip before, and if that’s the case, you’re probably familiar with its usual flavor profile.

The “heat” comes from the jalapenos. But what makes this version next-level is the flavor balance.

Jalapenos are spicy, but crumbled bacon and sliced green onions bring enough savory depth to this dip that you’re not knee-deep in heat and flavor that just so happens to be spicy. And this dip absolutely begs for crunch, which is why it wants you to top it with the kind of topping that gets you off your couch.

Ingredients

Cream cheese: Supplies a thick, smooth texture; abundant in fats and proteins.

Sour cream provides sharp flavor and a rich texture; is a source of protein, bone-building calcium.

Cheddar cheese: Provides a tangy, sharp flavor; abundant in protein and calcium.

Jalapeños: A source of heat; a source of vitamins A, C, and capsaicin.

Bacon: Supplies a taste of smokiness, and is protein-rich and fat-rich.

Parmesan Cheese: Contributes nuttiness; has richness of flavor, protein, and calcium.

Ritz Crackers: Supplies crunch; made with fine flour, imparts carbs.

Ingredient Quantities

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• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4-6 jalapenos, seeded and diced
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 4 tbsp butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.

3. Add the chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, and jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture. Stir to combine.

4. Pour the blend into a 9-inch baking dish that has been coated with grease, making sure to spread it evenly throughout the dish.

5. In another bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Stir the mixture until the crumbs are thoroughly coated with butter.

6. Evenly dispense the cracker mix on top of the cream cheese mixture in the baking dish.

7. Put the dish into the preheated oven, and then bake it for 20-25 minutes, or until the top has turned golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

8. Take the dip from the oven and allow it to cool for several minutes; it is best served warm.

9. Accompany with tortilla chips, crackers, or crisp, fresh vegetables for dipping.

10. Relish the creamy, spicy, and savory tastes of your very own Jalapeno Popper Dip!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Large mixing bowl
3. Medium mixing bowl
4. Measuring cups
5. Measuring spoons
6. Mixing spoon or spatula
7. 9-inch baking dish
8. Non-stick spray or grease for the baking dish
9. Knife
10. Cutting board

FAQ

• Q: Can I make Jalapeno Popper Dip ahead of time?A: Yes, the dip can be prepared and held in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. The cracker topping should be added just prior to the baking step to ensure that it stays crunchy.
• Q: How can I make the dip less spicy?A: To lower the heat level of the dish, you can use fewer jalapenos or take out all the seeds and membranes that contain most of the heat.
• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?Of course! You can absolutely try your favorite cheeses. Pepper jack or Monterey Jack could add a nice twist.
• Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this dip?A: For a vegetarian version, just don’t include the bacon. You can amp up the cheese and/or veg if you want to.
• Q: How do I store leftovers?To enjoy your leftovers, they must be stored in an airtight container no longer than 3-4 days in the refrigerator. This gives you the go-ahead to live a microwave lifestyle, or to sit down at the table with reheated leftovers and an oven’s promise of crispness.
• Q: Can I bake the dip in advance and reheat it?Yes, the dip can be made ahead of time, then reheated at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or so until warmed through, before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

Rather than using sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for an alternative that is just as tangy.
For an alternative cheese flavor, use Pepper Jack cheese instead of mozzarella.
Choose poblano peppers in place of jalapenos if you want your dish to be less heated.
To create a meatless version, leave out the bacon or use a meatless bacon substitute.
Replace the Ritz crackers with panko breadcrumbs for a different type of crunch.