If you love the bold flavors of jalapeño poppers but want something easy to share, this Spicy & Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Dip is the perfect choice! It’s creamy, cheesy, spicy, and loaded with crispy toppings, making it a must-have for game nights, parties, or any gathering.
This dip combines the heat of fresh and pickled jalapeños with the richness of cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of gooey melted cheeses.
The crunchy topping adds the perfect contrast, making every bite irresistible. Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or even fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer!
Ingredients
For the Dip:
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese (for extra spice)
- 4-5 jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- ¼ cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (optional, for extra tang)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for more heat)
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish (8×8 or similar size) to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dip Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack cheese. Stir in the fresh and pickled jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). If you’re adding bacon, mix it in as well. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Make the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dip to create a crispy, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra jalapeño slices or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies like celery and carrots.
Tips for the Best Jalapeño Popper Dip:
- Adjust the spice level: Use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds if you want a milder dip. For extra heat, add cayenne or diced serrano peppers.
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the dip’s texture.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the dip and refrigerate (without baking) for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes.
- Try different toppings: Crushed Ritz crackers or crushed tortilla chips can be used instead of panko for a different crunch.
This Spicy & Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Dip is the ultimate party dip—creamy, spicy, and irresistibly cheesy. Let me know if you’d like a variation with extra ingredients like bacon or ranch!