Jalapeño Popper Dip is one of the most popular game day appetizers in the United States, combining everything people love about classic jalapeño poppers into an easy, shareable dip. This Jalapeño Popper Dip recipe features a creamy base of cream cheese blended with spicy jalapeños, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and green onions, all baked until bubbly and golden. Finished with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, the dip delivers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy richness and spicy flavor. Whether served at Super Bowl parties, holiday gatherings, or weekend get-togethers, this Jalapeño Popper Dip is guaranteed to be one of the first dishes to disappear.
Key Takeaways
• Classic American party appetizer with bold flavor
• Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly spicy
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Perfect for game day, parties, and gatherings
• Ready in about 30 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Jalapeño Popper Dip is incredibly popular because it delivers restaurant-style flavor using simple grocery store ingredients. The combination of cream cheese and cheddar creates a rich, smooth base, while jalapeños add just the right amount of heat. Crispy bacon adds savory crunch, and the golden breadcrumb topping gives the dip a satisfying texture contrast. Another reason this recipe is loved is its versatility—you can easily adjust the spice level by using more or fewer jalapeños, and it pairs perfectly with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4–5 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
1/2 cup cooked crispy bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips
1 tablespoon melted butter
2 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese
Equipment
Mixing bowl
Baking dish (8×8)
Spatula
Oven
Measuring cups
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, diced jalapeños, cooked bacon, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs (or crushed tortilla chips) with melted butter and shredded cheddar cheese, then sprinkle evenly over the dip.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the topping turns golden brown.
Allow the dip to cool for about 5 minutes before serving so it thickens slightly.
Tips & Variations
For a milder dip, remove all jalapeño seeds before chopping.
For extra heat, leave some seeds in or add diced pickled jalapeños.
Pepper jack cheese can replace mozzarella for additional spice.
You can prepare the dip mixture ahead of time and bake just before serving.
Using crushed tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs adds extra flavor and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jalapeño Popper Dip hot with tortilla chips, crackers, toasted baguette slices, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips. This dip pairs perfectly with other classic party foods like sliders, wings, and nachos, making it ideal for game day spreads.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
For oven reheating, bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes until hot again.
Nutrition (approx.)
Calories: 310 per serving
Protein: 11g
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sodium: 520mg
FAQs
Can I make Jalapeño Popper Dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip mixture ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I make it without bacon?
Yes, the dip can be made vegetarian by simply omitting the bacon.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is traditional, but pepper jack or Monterey Jack also works very well.
Can I use pickled jalapeños?
Yes, pickled jalapeños add a tangy flavor and slightly milder heat.
Conclusion
This easy Jalapeño Popper Dip recipe is the ultimate creamy, cheesy, spicy appetizer that brings bold flavor to any party. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and irresistible results, it’s the perfect addition to game day menus, holiday gatherings, and entertaining spreads. Once you serve this Jalapeño Popper Dip, it will quickly become one of your most requested appetizer recipes.