Step 4: Add the Jalapeños and Seasonings
Stir in the chopped jalapeños, garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Fold in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack.
You want cheese throughout the entire dip, not just sitting on top.
Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
Spread it into an even layer.
Step 7: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
Add a few chopped jalapeños if you’d like.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for approximately 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbling around the edges, and beautifully melted on top.
For an extra golden top, switch to the broiler for the final 1–2 minutes.
Watch it closely!
Cheese can go from perfectly golden to “what happened?” surprisingly quickly.
Step 9: Rest Briefly
Let the dip sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
It will be extremely hot straight from the oven, and giving it a few minutes also lets the texture settle slightly.
How to Serve Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
Now comes the fun part.
Serve this warm dip with:
- Tortilla chips
- Corn chips
- Crackers
- Toasted baguette slices
- Pretzel bites
- Pita chips
- Celery sticks
- Carrot sticks
- Bell pepper strips
- Cucumber slices
For a party, put the hot dip in the center of a large platter and arrange several dipping options around it.
