Smoked Bacon and Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
If you’re looking for an irresistible appetizer that will wow your guests, this smoked bacon and jalapeño cream cheese dip is the perfect choice. It’s creamy, smoky, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors that pair perfectly with tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- 1 block of cream cheese
- 1/8 cup of real bacon pieces (microwaved for 30 seconds to crisp)
- 6+ oz of shredded Seriously Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (recommended: Cabot)
- 2 large jalapeños (finely diced)
- A few shakes of garlic powder
- A generous amount of black pepper and a pinch of salt
- A drizzle of olive oil
- Extra bacon pieces and your favorite BBQ rub for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely dice the jalapeños and microwave the bacon pieces until they’re crispy. Shred the sharp cheddar cheese and have all ingredients ready for mixing.
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the Mixture: Once the ingredients are well combined, form the mixture back into a block shape. Place the block in the freezer for about 15–20 minutes to firm it up for easier handling.
- Score and Season: After removing the block from the freezer, score the top with a knife to create a crisscross pattern. Brush or drizzle a little olive oil over the top, then sprinkle on additional bacon pieces and a generous coating of your favorite BBQ rub.
- Smoke It: Preheat your smoker to 230°F (110°C). Place the cream cheese block on the smoker and let it cook for 2 hours. The low-and-slow smoking process infuses the cream cheese with incredible smoky flavor and melts the cheddar for a creamy consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once smoked, remove the block from the smoker and let it cool slightly. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping.
This smoked bacon and jalapeño cream cheese dip is a game-changer for any party or gathering. The combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and smoky jalapeños delivers a perfect balance of heat, texture, and flavor. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
