Creamy Jalapeno Dip Recipe
This creamy jalapeno dip is a flavorful and spicy appetizer perfect for parties or casual snacking. Made with a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and both fresh and pickled jalapenos, this dip offers a zesty kick balanced by creamy textures. It’s easy to prepare and pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks.
- Author: Clara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: About 2 cups, serves 6-8 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Dip
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dairy & Base
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Flavorings & Spices
- 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
Garnish & Serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for serving
- Combine the base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise using a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add cheddar cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is well incorporated into the creamy base.
- Mix in jalapenos and seasonings: Add the finely chopped fresh jalapenos, chopped pickled jalapenos, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Adjust texture and spice level: For a chunkier dip, leave some jalapeno pieces larger or roughly chopped. Alternatively, mix thoroughly if you prefer a smooth dip. Taste and add more jalapenos if a spicier flavor is desired.
- Refrigerate to meld flavors: Cover the dip and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and deepen.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the dip well again and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of fresh jalapenos to control the heat level to your liking.
- Pickled jalapenos add a nice tangy contrast to the creaminess.
- Make the dip a few hours ahead for best flavor absorption.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version, though texture may vary.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: jalapeno dip, creamy dip, spicy appetizer, party dip, jalapeno recipes, snack dip, tortilla chips dip