Introduction
Delightful and creamy, this cheese dip is a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Combining the zesty flavors of salsa verde with the richness of multiple cheeses and the smoky taste of bacon, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply looking for a tasty treat, this easy-to-make dip will be the star of the snack table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1 cup salsa verde
1 cup sour cream
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup frozen corn
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
2 fresh jalapeños, diced (remove seeds for less heat)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried dill
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1-2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 8-10 people
This recipe, filled with a harmonious blend of flavors, makes for a perfect dip served with an array of crunchy snacks. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Dice the red bell pepper and jalapeños, ensuring to remove the seeds from the jalapeños for a milder flavor. Chop the fresh parsley and crumble the cooked bacon.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
In a 3-quart slow cooker, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, salsa verde, sour cream, softened cream cheese, frozen corn, diced red bell pepper, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, chopped parsley, garlic powder, dried dill, ground cumin, and red pepper flakes.
Stir the Mixture
Thoroughly stir the mixture to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Cook the Dip
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until the dip is hot, melted, and bubbly around the edges.
Stir During Cooking
Stir the dip every 30 minutes to ensure even melting and prevent any sticking or burning.
Maintain Serving Temperature
Once fully melted and heated through, switch the slow cooker to the “warm” setting to maintain the desired serving temperature.
Garnish the Dip (Optional)
If desired, garnish the dip with additional jalapeño slices, red bell pepper pieces, bacon crumbles, or chopped fresh herbs such as chives or green onions.
Serve the Dip
Serve the dip hot with tortilla chips, crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Ingredient Storage
Ensure cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
Heat Variation
Adjust the number of jalapeños and red pepper flakes according to preferred spice level.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete spread, serve with a variety of dipping options like pita chips or sliced baguette.
Cook Techniques
Preparation of Vegetables
Begin by dicing the red bell pepper and jalapeños, ensuring to remove the seeds from the jalapeños if you prefer a milder flavor. Chop the parsley and crumble the cooked bacon.
Combining Ingredients
In a slow cooker, add all the prepared ingredients including the shredded cheeses, salsa verde, sour cream, softened cream cheese, frozen corn, diced vegetables, crumbled bacon, and spices. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Slow Cooking
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the dip to cook for 1-2 hours, or until it becomes hot and bubbly.
Stirring
Every 30 minutes, stir the dip to promote even melting and prevent the mixture from sticking or burning on the sides.
Serving Maintaining Temperature
Once the dip is fully melted and heated, switch the slow cooker to the “warm” setting to keep it at an optimal serving temperature.
Garnishing
For an appealing presentation, consider garnishing the dip with additional slices of jalapeño, pieces of red bell pepper, crumbled bacon, or fresh herbs like chives or green onions.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute other cheeses according to your preference, but do keep a melty cheese on hand for the best texture.
Is this dip spicy?
The dip can be spicy due to the jalapeños and pepper jack cheese. Removing the jalapeño seeds will reduce the heat.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before serving.
What can I serve with this dip?
This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrots.
Can I make this dip in the oven instead?
Yes, you can combine the ingredients in an oven-safe dish and bake it at 350°F until hot and bubbly, usually about 20-30 minutes.
Conclusion
This creamy and cheesy dip combines the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any gathering. With the blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, tangy salsa verde, and a kick from jalapeños, it’s sure to please everyone’s palate. Serve it warm with your favorite dippers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Queso Dip
Combine the cheeses with diced tomatoes, black beans, and additional spices like cayenne pepper for a fiery twist.
Vegetarian Chili
Replace the bacon with more beans and some chopped zucchini, using the same spices for a hearty and filling vegetarian option.
Stuffed Jalapeños
Use the creamy mixture to stuff fresh jalapeños, wrap them in bacon, and bake until golden for a delicious finger food.
Taco Salad Layer Dip
Layer the dip in a glass dish with refried beans, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced olives for a festive taco salad.
Cheesy Corn Casserole
Incorporate the dip mixture with cooked pasta and bake for a cheesy corn casserole that’s great as a side dish.
Warm Spinach Artichoke Dip
Mix spinach and artichoke hearts into the dip for a creamy and flavorful variation of a classic favorite.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Add shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce to the dip for a tangy, spicy treat that pairs well with celery sticks.
