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30-Minute Baked Jalapeño Popper Dip

Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Yield
16 servings
Level
medium
Cuisine
American
Baked Jalapeño Popper Dip with Bacon and Cheese Topping

A creamy, indulgent appetizer that transforms the beloved jalapeño popper into a shareable hot dip. Cream cheese and sour cream create a rich base studded with diced jalapeños, bacon crumbles, and melted cheddar. Topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers and Parmesan for golden, crunchy contrast. Perfect for game day parties, casual gatherings, or whenever you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears fast. This baked version delivers all the jalapeño popper flavors without the frying hassle.

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Method

9 steps
  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375 degrees

  2. 2

    Prepare 8x8 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray

  3. 3

    Mix together jalapeños, cream cheese, and sour cream in mixing bowl

  4. 4

    Mix in remaining dip ingredients until well combined

  5. 5

    Add mixture to prepared baking dish

  6. 6

    Mix together all topping ingredients

  7. 7

    Sprinkle topping on dip

  8. 8

    Bake for 15 minutes

  9. 9

    Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes before serving

Tips

Tip 1

Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture

Tip 2

Adjust jalapeño quantity based on heat preference - drain well to prevent watery dip

Tip 3

Let cool slightly before serving to prevent burning and allow flavors to settle

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate up to 3 days covered

Make Ahead

Can assemble without topping up to 1 day ahead, add topping before baking

Serve With

Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip draining jalapeños to avoid watery dip

Watch

Don't overbake topping to avoid burning crackers

Substitutions

canned jalapeños→
fresh jalapeños1:1spicy

dice and remove seeds for less heat

Ritz crackers→
panko breadcrumbs1:1neutraladds gluten

less buttery flavor

Full guide →
bacon→
turkey bacon1:1lighter

less smoky flavor

Full guide →
cheddar→
Mexican cheese blend1:1tex-mex

different flavor profile

Full guide →
cream cheese→
Greek yogurt1:1lightertangy

will be less rich

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dip without topping up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then add topping and bake when ready to serve.

What if I don't have Ritz crackers for topping?

Substitute with panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or any buttery cracker. The key is achieving a crunchy contrast to the creamy dip.

How long does this keep in the refrigerator?

Leftover dip will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.