Smoked Jalapeno Popper Dip

Name: How to Make the Best Smoked Cheese and Bacon Dip in 5 Simple Steps
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cream cheese (softened); 1.5 cups sour cream; 1 cup mayonnaise; 0.5 pound bacon (cooked and crumbled, divided); 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded, divided); 2 cups smoked gouda cheese (shredded, divided); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/27/2025

Embrace the bold flavors of a Smoked Jalapeño Popper Dip, and take your appetizer game to the next level. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe combines smoky heat, creaminess, and a crunchy topping. Anchored by the rich and fiery flavor of jalapeños, this dip promises to be a hit at any occasion.

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Growing up, this dip was a staple at our family barbecues. My grandmother, always with a hint of mischief in her eyes, loved surprising us with a little extra jalapeño heat now and then. The laughter and gentle jabs that followed when someone took a particularly fiery bite have become cherished memories. Over the years, I’ve made this dip my own, but it remains a tribute to those joyful family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is not your average party spread. What makes it stand out is the perfect balance of spicy and creamy textures, with the smoky depth added by smoked jalapeños. Easy to prepare, it’s ideal for busy hosts who want to make a big impact with minimal effort. Just imagine pulling this dish out of the oven, its cheese bubbling and crust golden—irresistible!

Ingredients Notes

Fresh ingredients are key to the best jalapeño popper dip. Look for fresh jalapeños that are firm and vibrant in color. You can substitute smoked jalapeños with regular ones if you prefer a milder flavor. For a vegetarian twist, ensure your Cream Cheese is plant-based.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Dice the jalapeños and set aside.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, combine CREAM CHEESE, shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the diced jalapeños. Mix thoroughly until smooth.

Step 3

Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Top with the remaining jalapeños and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for crunch.

Step 4

Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5

Allow the dip to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld and makes it easier to dip.

Storage Options

After serving, store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Variations & Substitutions

For a milder dip, substitute half the jalapeños with bell peppers. Add cooked bacon for an extra savory layer. For a vegan version, use plant-based Cream Cheese and cheddar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dip hot with Tortilla Chips or veggie sticks. It’s perfect for game nights, barbecues, or holiday parties. Pair it with a crisp, cold beer or a zesty margarita for a complete experience.

frequently asked questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Just cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add toppings and bake as directed.

How can I reduce the spice level?
To reduce spice, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing. You can also use fewer jalapeños or try substituting with milder peppers like Anaheim or Banana Peppers.

Is it possible to smoke the jalapeños at home?
Yes, you can smoke them on a grill by using wood chips; just keep the jalapeños over indirect heat until they soften and develop a smoky aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assemble the Smoked Jalapeño Popper Dip ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare the mixture as directed, transfer it to your baking dish, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, add the breadcrumb topping, and bake as per the recipe instructions. Allowing it to rest in the fridge will help the flavors meld even further.

What are some good substitutions if I don’t have smoked jalapeños?

If you don’t have smoked jalapeños, you can substitute with fresh jalapeños for a similar heat level. For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika (about 1/2 teaspoon) to the dip mixture. You could also grill or roast the fresh jalapeños before dicing them to mimic the smoky flavor. Alternatively, you can use a can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely diced (start with 1-2 peppers, taste, and add more as needed), for a different, but still delicious, smoky and spicy profile.

How do I know when the Smoked Jalapeño Popper Dip is perfectly cooked?

The dip is perfectly cooked when the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top. You should also see the edges of the dip starting to brown. The internal temperature should reach around 165°F (74°C) if you have a food thermometer. The breadcrumb topping, if used, should be golden and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Can I double or triple this Smoked Jalapeño Popper Dip recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily scale up this recipe. Double or triple all the ingredients proportionally. Be sure to use a larger baking dish or divide the dip between multiple dishes. The baking time may increase slightly, so keep an eye on it and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using multiple dishes, you might need to rotate them halfway through baking for even cooking.

What are the nutritional benefits of the ingredients in this Smoked Jalapeño Popper Dip?

This dip provides some nutritional benefits. Jalapeños are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. Cheddar cheese offers calcium and protein. Cream cheese contributes some fats and protein. However, it’s important to note that this is a rich appetizer. Serve with vegetable sticks to add extra nutrients and fiber to your snack.

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How to Make the Best Smoked Cheese and Bacon Dip in 5 Simple Steps

This indulgent dip combines creamy cheeses, crispy bacon, and a hint of barbecue smokiness. A perfect appetizer for any gathering, it pairs well with fresh veggies or your favorite crackers.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 cups cream cheese softened
1.5 cups sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
0.5 pound bacon cooked and crumbled, divided
2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, divided
2 cups smoked gouda cheese shredded, divided
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat your smoker or grill to 250°F for indirect cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
Stir in half of the crumbled bacon, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the smoked gouda cheese. Combine well.
Transfer the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place on the smoker and cook for 1 hour uncovered.
Stir the dip to ensure even cooking, then top with remaining cheeses and bacon. Smoke for an additional 30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.