Jalapeno Popper Cheese Blend (Printer-Friendly Version)
Creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos baked with bacon, delivering rich flavor and melty texture.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Dairy
01 -
8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 -
1 cup sour cream, full fat
03 -
1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
04 -
½ cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
→ Produce
05 -
3 oz canned diced jalapenos
06 -
2 fresh jalapenos, diced, seeds removed for milder heat
07 -
2 green onions, thinly sliced
→ Meat
08 -
6 slices center-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
→ Seasonings
09 -
1 tablespoon ranch dressing seasoning mix
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Allow cream cheese to soften to room temperature. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Whisk until mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
02 -
Fold in canned diced jalapenos, fresh diced jalapenos, crumbled bacon reserving a small amount for garnish, and ranch seasoning. Mix thoroughly to distribute evenly.
03 -
Stir in three quarters of the shredded sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese, reserving one cup of the cheese mixture for topping.
04 -
Spread the mixture uniformly into a greased 9x11 inch baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula to ensure even baking.
05 -
Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbling.
06 -
Remove from oven and sprinkle remaining bacon and sliced green onions atop the dip. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Soften cream cheese completely for a smoother texture.
02 -
Hand-shred cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that affect melting.
03 -
Retain some bacon and cheese for topping to enhance texture and appearance.