Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Dip

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more? This Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Dip is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup diced jalapenos
• 1/2 cup diced green chilies
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits
• Tortilla chips or crackers for serving

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
• In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, jalapenos, green chilies, and parmesan cheese. Spread mixture into the prepared baking dish.
• In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and bacon bits. Sprinkle mixture over the top of the dip.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
• Serve hot with tortilla chips or crackers.

Popular questions:

• Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly and give a creamier texture to the dip.

• Can I make this dip ahead of time?

You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. Add the breadcrumb and bacon topping just before baking.

• Can I make this dip less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of jalapenos used or remove the seeds and membranes before dicing them.

Helpful tips:

• Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
• Top the dip with extra crispy bacon bits for added crunch.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add diced red bell peppers for color and flavor.

Expert Secrets:

• Try adding a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
• For a creamier texture, mix in a bit of sour cream with the cream cheese mixture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for unique flavor combinations.