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Best Crispy Baked Jalapeno Popper Dip Recipe with Panko

baked jalapeno popper dip - featured image

A creamy, cheesy jalapeno popper dip with a golden, buttery panko crust that’s perfect for game day, parties, or any gathering. This easy, crowd-pleasing dip comes together in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (1 1/2 cups for dip, 1/2 cup for topping)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 45 fresh jalapenos, seeded and finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette for serving
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Prep the jalapenos: Wearing gloves, slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise, scrape out seeds and membranes, then finely dice. You should have about 1/2 to 3/4 cup.
  3. Soften the cream cheese: If not at room temperature, cut into cubes and microwave in 10-second bursts until soft but not melted.
  4. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  5. Fold in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar, all of the Monterey Jack, diced jalapenos, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly distributed.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
  7. Make the panko crust: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add panko breadcrumbs and stir constantly until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan and garlic powder.
  8. Sprinkle the toasted panko mixture evenly over the cheese layer. Do not press down.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly around the edges and the panko crust is deep golden brown. If browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 5 minutes.
  10. Let the dip cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette.

Notes

Toast the panko separately for best crunch. Let cream cheese soften properly to avoid lumps. Shred your own cheese from a block for smooth melting. For a milder version, use fewer jalapenos and remove all seeds. The dip can be assembled a day ahead (without panko crust) and refrigerated; add panko and bake as directed, adding 5 minutes to baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeno popper dip, baked dip, panko crust, game day dip, creamy cheese dip, spicy dip, party appetizer