Imagine a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the creamy richness of melted cheese, the smoky crunch of bacon, and a spicy-sweet kick that'll have everyone coming back for seconds. This Hot Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that transforms ordinary gatherings into unforgettable culinary experiences. Whether you're hosting a game day party, a family get-together, or just craving a decadent snack, this dip promises to be the star of the show.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup hot pepper jelly
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your dip bakes evenly and becomes perfectly bubbly.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the hot pepper jelly to the cheese mixture. Stir well until the jelly is fully incorporated into the cheese blend, giving it a sweet and spicy flavor.
- Mix in the crumbled cooked bacon, chopped green onions, and garlic powder. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the cheese dip mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. You can use a 9-inch pie dish or any oven-safe dish you have on hand.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
- Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This will help prevent burns and allow the flavors to settle.
- Serve the hot pepper jelly cheese dip warm with your choice of dippers, such as tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest blend.
- Bacon Brilliance: Use thick-cut, high-quality bacon for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Jelly Selection: Choose a hot pepper jelly with the right heat level for your crowd—some are spicier than others!
- Cheese Hack: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Serving Suggestion: Warm pita chips, toasted baguette slices, or crisp vegetable sticks make excellent dippers.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this dip up to a day in advance and bake just before serving.
- Garnish Goals: A sprinkle of extra green onions or a drizzle of additional hot pepper jelly can elevate the presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
