Spicy & Creamy Jalapeno Dream Dip Recipe

Introduction

Spicy & Creamy Jalapeno Dream Dip is a flavorful blend of creamy textures and zesty heat, perfect for game days or casual gatherings. This easy-to-make dip combines fresh and pickled jalapenos with rich cheeses for a crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2-3 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
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Step 2: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Add the fresh and pickled jalapenos, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
4. Step 4: For a chunkier dip, leave some jalapenos whole or roughly chopped; otherwise, mix until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Step 5: Taste the dip and adjust seasoning or add more jalapenos if you prefer it spicier.
6. Step 6: Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Step 7: Before serving, give the dip a good stir and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks.

Tips & Variations

• Use smoked cheddar for a deeper, smoky flavor that complements the jalapenos.
• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or substitute fresh jalapenos with serrano peppers.
• Try mixing in chopped cooked bacon for added texture and a savory twist.
• Serve chilled for a refreshing kick or at room temperature for creamier texture.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. If the dip thickens too much after chilling, you can let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes or add a splash of milk to loosen it. This dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently reheated in the microwave if preferred warm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the dip a few hours or even a day in advance enhances the flavors as they meld together. Just be sure to cover and refrigerate it until serving.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh jalapenos?

You can substitute fresh jalapenos with canned jalapenos or other mild green chilies. Adjust the quantity to your preferred spice level and consider adding a bit of fresh chili powder if using milder peppers.

Spicy & Creamy Jalapeno Dream Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 61 reviews

This Spicy & Creamy Jalapeno Dream Dip is a flavorful and tangy treat combining cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and both fresh and pickled jalapenos for a perfect balance of creamy and spicy. Ideal as a party appetizer or snack, it’s easy to prepare, requiring no cooking and ready to serve chilled with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dip
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dairy & Dairy Alternatives

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

Spices & Flavorings

• 2–3 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

Garnishes & Serving

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

Instructions

1. Combine creamy ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise together using a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
2. Add cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese thoroughly until it is evenly incorporated into the creamy mixture.
3. Mix in jalapenos and seasonings: Add the finely chopped fresh jalapenos, chopped pickled jalapenos, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and season the dip with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to combine all flavors evenly.
4. Adjust texture and spice level: For a chunkier dip, leave some jalapenos roughly chopped or whole; otherwise, continue mixing until you achieve your desired consistency. Taste the dip and add more jalapenos or seasoning if you prefer it spicier or more flavorful.
5. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Garnish and serve: Before serving, give the dip a good stir. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve chilled alongside tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping.

Notes

• You can adjust the number of fresh jalapenos based on your heat preference.
• For a milder dip, remove the seeds from the jalapenos before chopping.
• Pickled jalapenos add a tangy flavor, but you can omit or substitute with another pickled pepper if preferred.
• This dip can be prepared a day ahead; just keep it refrigerated until serving.
• Try serving with assorted crudités like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a healthier option.
• To reduce fat content, try using light cream cheese and sour cream varieties.

Keywords: jalapeno dip, spicy dip, creamy dip, party appetizer, snack, jalapeno recipe, cream cheese dip