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Creamy Jalapeño Popper Dip

creamy jalapeño popper dip - featured image

A creamy, spicy, and cheesy dip combining fresh and pickled jalapeños with cream cheese and sharp cheddar. Perfect for parties, casual get-togethers, or solo snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 medium fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chives or green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
  • Crunchy chips or fresh veggies for serving

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  2. Finely chop 2 medium fresh jalapeños, removing seeds if desired. Chop 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1/4 cup mayonnaise. Beat on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until creamy and well combined.
  4. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently.
  5. Fold in the chopped fresh and pickled jalapeños, reserving some for garnish.
  6. Transfer the dip to a serving dish, smooth the top, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and meld flavors.
  7. Before serving, garnish with reserved jalapeños and fresh chives or green onions. Serve chilled with crunchy chips or fresh veggies.
  8. Optional: For a warm dip, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

Soften cream cheese well before mixing to avoid lumps. Adjust jalapeño seeds to control heat. For a dairy-free version, use coconut-based cream cheese and sour cream alternatives and dairy-free shredded cheese. The dip tastes better after chilling at least 1 hour. Stir before serving if it firms up. Can be served warm by baking at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper dip, creamy dip, party snack, spicy dip, cheesy dip, appetizer, easy dip recipe