Creamy Baked Jalapeno Popper Dip

Name: Creamy Baked Jalapeno Popper Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped; 3-4 jalapenos, seeded and chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love this Creamy Baked Jalapeno Popper Dip! The combination of creamy cheese, spicy jalapenos, and crispy bacon creates a party favorite that never fails to impress. Each time I serve it, my guests can't get enough of the rich flavors and smooth texture. I always make sure to have plenty of tortilla chips on hand for dipping. This dip is perfect for game days, celebrations, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:09:31.145Z

I’ll never forget the first time I made this dip for my friends. The reaction was priceless! Watching them savor each bite reassured me that I had discovered a true winner. The trick is to balance the creaminess of the cheese with the heat from the jalapenos, and this recipe achieves just that.

One of my favorite tips is to roast the jalapenos beforehand. It enhances their flavor profile, adding a smoky depth that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Don’t skimp on the bacon either; it adds a delicious crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy dip!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that's always a crowd-pleaser
Perfectly balanced spicy and savory flavor
Easy to prepare, making it ideal for any gathering

      

Preparation Tips

When preparing this dip, it's crucial to ensure that the cream cheese is properly softened. Take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you start mixing the ingredients. This makes it easier to combine with the other ingredients, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture. You can also use a hand mixer for an even fluffier dip, which blends the ingredients quicker and gives a lighter mouthfeel.

Consider the heat level of your jalapenos when selecting them. If you prefer a milder flavor, choose lighter green jalapenos, as they tend to be less spicy. On the other hand, if you're up for a kick, opt for darker green, firmer peppers. Remember to taste your chopped jalapenos before adding them to the mix to gauge their heat and adjust the quantity accordingly.

Serving and Storage

This Creamy Baked Jalapeno Popper Dip is best served warm and bubbly out of the oven. I recommend adding a variety of dippers like tortilla chips, crackers, or even vegetable sticks. This not only caters to guests with different preferences but also adds a fun element to the serving experience. If you want to get creative, try using mini bell peppers instead of chips for a low-carb option.

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dip grainy and affect the texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious dip:

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
3-4 jalapenos, seeded and chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped green onions, for garnish

Make sure to have your chips ready for dipping!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dip:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly into a baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches) and smooth it out with a spatula.

Bake the Dip

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy with tortilla chips!

Don't forget to share this delicious dip with your friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add a dash of hot sauce to the mix!

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily make this dip to suit your dietary needs. For a lighter version, substitute full-fat cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese, which has a similar texture but less fat. Additionally, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream, bringing a tangy flavor and a boost of protein to the dip.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative. This will still provide a savory depth to the dip without sacrificing flavor. Also, feel free to mix in other cheeses like pepper jack for an added kick or mozzarella for a different cheese pull experience.

Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue with baked dips is separation and watering. To prevent this, avoid overmixing the ingredients once you've added the sour cream and cheeses. Mix just until everything is combined, as overmixing can introduce excess air and lead to separation during baking.

If you find that your dip isn't bubbling after the recommended baking time, it might need a few additional minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on it—look for the dip to bubble at the edges and turn a golden brown on top. If you're using a glass dish, remember that it can cook faster, so adjust the time if necessary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dip in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this dip vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the bacon and consider adding black beans or more cheese for texture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, veggie sticks, or even spread on sandwiches!