When it comes to summer appetizers, nothing beats a bold, creamy dip—and this Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip is guaranteed to be the star of your snack table.
With its cool, creamy texture and perfect spicy kick, it’s ideal for cookouts, potlucks, or game-day spreads. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it comes together in minutes and keeps your guests coming back for more.
Whether you’re serving it with chips, veggies, crackers, or even slathered on burgers or tacos, this dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—and so easy, you might find yourself making it every weekend.
🥄 Why You’ll Love This Dip
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Quick and easy: Ready in under 10 minutes.
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Just the right heat: Cream cheese smooths out the spice of fresh jalapeños.
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Super versatile: Use as a dip, spread, or creamy topping.
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Perfect for summer: Chill it in the fridge and serve it cold.
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Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better after a few hours of chilling.
📝 Ingredients (6 Servings)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
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1–2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (adjust to spice preference)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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¼ tsp onion powder
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¼ tsp salt
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2 tbsp chopped fresh green onions or chives
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Optional: ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack for a cheesy boost
⏱ Prep Time
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Chill Time: 20–30 minutes (optional for flavor melding)
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Total Time: 10–40 minutes
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Yield: About 1 ½ cups (6 servings)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Soften and Mix
In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Stir in the diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and green onions. Add shredded cheese if using.
Step 3: Chill (Optional)
Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to let flavors blend, or serve immediately if short on time.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top with a few extra jalapeño slices and green onions before serving for color and crunch.
🌞 Why It’s Perfect for Summer
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Cool and creamy: A refreshing contrast to hot summer dishes.
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No oven required: Keep the kitchen cool.
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Pairs with everything: From burgers to veggie platters and tortilla chips.
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Party-perfect: Serve in a bowl with a big pile of dippers at your next BBQ.
💡 Tips & Variations
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Adjust the heat: Remove jalapeño seeds for milder flavor, or leave them in for more fire.
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Roast your jalapeños: For smoky depth, char jalapeños under the broiler before chopping.
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Make it chunkier: Stir in roasted corn, diced bell peppers, or chopped bacon.
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Turn it into a baked dip: Spread into a dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
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Add lime zest or juice: For a citrusy, tangy kick that complements the spice.
🧊 Storage & Make Ahead
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Not recommended—cream cheese texture changes when frozen.
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Make ahead: Best made a few hours in advance so the flavors can fully develop.
Great for prepping before a party, picnic, or summer lunch spread!
🌶️ Jalapeño 101: Fresh vs. Pickled
Fresh jalapeños give this dip a vibrant, crisp heat—but you can also use:
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Pickled jalapeños: For a tangier, slightly milder flavor.
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Canned green chiles: If you want more flavor and less heat.
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Red Fresno peppers: For color and a little more complexity.
Mix and match based on your spice level and taste preferences!