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Savory Smoky Jalapeño Popper Dip Recipe with Crispy Bacon

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A quick and easy smoky, spicy, and creamy jalapeño popper dip with crispy bacon, perfect for parties and last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3–4 medium fresh jalapeños, seeded and diced (leave some seeds for extra heat)
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream
  • 1 cup (about 100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup (50 g) shredded smoked gouda
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Place 6 slices of thick-cut bacon in a cold skillet. Turn heat to medium and cook, turning occasionally, until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Transfer to paper towels to drain. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces. Save a bit of bacon grease for sautéing jalapeños.
  2. Prepare the jalapeños: Wearing gloves, slice jalapeños in half and remove seeds if less heat is desired. Dice finely. Heat 1 tablespoon of reserved bacon grease or oil in the skillet over medium heat, add garlic and jalapeños, sauté until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Mix the base: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add cheese and seasonings: Stir in shredded cheddar, smoked gouda, sautéed jalapeños with garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.
  5. Fold in bacon: Gently fold in most of the chopped bacon, saving a handful for topping.
  6. Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly into an 8×8 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved bacon and extra cheddar cheese on top for a crispy, cheesy crust.
  7. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dip for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Watch closely toward the end to avoid burning.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top, and serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette.

Notes

Let the dip rest for 5 minutes after baking to set slightly for easier scooping. If too thick after cooling, microwave for 20 seconds to revive creaminess. Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation. Save bacon grease for sautéing jalapeños to add flavor. Watch baking time closely to avoid drying out or burning the dip.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper dip, smoky dip, bacon dip, party snack, easy dip, creamy dip, spicy dip, appetizer

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/savory-smoky-jalape-n-o-popper-dip-recipe-with-crispy-bacon-easy-party-snack/