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Creamy Jalapeno Dip Recipe

4.8 from 112 reviews

This creamy jalapeno dip is a flavorful and spicy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and both fresh and pickled jalapenos, it offers a rich, zesty, and smooth texture with a delicious kick. Garnished with fresh cilantro and served with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dip Base

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Spices and Flavorings

  • 23 fresh jalapenos, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapenos, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish and Serving

  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions

  1. Combine Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
  2. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully incorporated into the creamy base, giving the dip a rich texture and cheesy flavor.
  3. Add Jalapenos and Seasonings: Mix in the fresh finely chopped jalapenos, pickled jalapenos, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
  4. Adjust Texture and Spice Level: If you prefer a chunkier texture, leave some jalapenos whole or roughly chopped. Otherwise, continue mixing until you reach your desired consistency. Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning or add more jalapenos for extra heat, if desired.
  5. Chill the Dip: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
  6. Serve: Before serving, give the dip a good stir. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping.

Notes

  • To reduce spiciness, remove seeds from fresh jalapenos before chopping.
  • For extra creaminess, you can add a little bit of sour cream or mayonnaise when mixing.
  • This dip can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
  • For a lower-fat version, substitute light sour cream and reduced-fat cream cheese.
  • Try serving with assorted fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers as an alternative to chips.

Keywords: Jalapeno dip, creamy dip, spicy appetizer, party dip, cheese dip, jalapeno recipes, vegetarian dip