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Ultimate Crispy Baked Jalapeño Popper Dip

crispy baked jalapeño popper dip - featured image

A creamy, crunchy, and spicy baked dip that captures the essence of jalapeño poppers in a shareable form, perfect for parties and snack nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz softened cream cheese (full-fat preferred)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 45 roasted, seeded, and finely chopped jalapeño peppers
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives or green onions, finely sliced (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven broiler to high. Place 4-5 whole jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until blackened and blistered on all sides. Remove and let cool slightly, then peel off skins, remove seeds (or keep some for extra heat), and finely chop.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
  4. Fold in shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and chopped roasted jalapeños. Mix just until evenly incorporated.
  5. Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  6. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the dip to form a crispy crust.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the dip is hot and bubbly. Watch closely after 20 minutes to avoid over-browning.
  8. Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh chopped chives or green onions if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.

Notes

Roasting jalapeños before mixing releases smoky flavor and tames heat. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and texture. Watch oven closely to avoid burning the topping. For extra crispiness, broil for last 2 minutes but watch carefully. Dip is best served warm. Can prepare a day ahead and bake before serving. Substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed chips if needed.

Nutrition

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