Jalapeno Popper Dip Cream Cheese (Print View)
Creamy, spicy dip with jalapeños, cheddar, mozzarella, and a crispy panko topping.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dairy Base
01 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 - 1/2 cup sour cream
03 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
04 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
→ Peppers
05 - 4 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (reserve one for garnish)
→ Seasonings
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Crispy Topping
10 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
12 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease an 8x8 inch square baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
02 - In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Fold in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.
03 - Spread the cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to create a smooth surface.
04 - In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter.
05 - Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the dip. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the dip is bubbly around the edges.
06 - Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with reserved chopped jalapeño and fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- Everything you love about jalapeño poppers but way easier and faster to make
- The creamy spicy combo keeps people coming back for just one more bite
02 -
- I learned the hard way that cold cream cheese creates lumps that never quite disappear, so set it out at least an hour before you start cooking
- The topping can burn quickly, so check at 20 minutes and cover loosely with foil if it's getting too dark
03 -
- Broil for the last 2 minutes if you want extra crunch on that topping, but watch it like a hawk
- Pepper jack instead of cheddar turns up the heat and adds amazing flavor