Few appetizers strike the perfect balance between simplicity and show-stopping flavor like this Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip. With its blend of creamy, melty cheeses and the sweet-heat punch of pepper jelly, it’s a warm dip that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, throwing a holiday party, or just indulging in a cozy night in, this dish promises to be the first thing devoured from the table.
At the heart of this dip is a rich blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and Monterey Jack. The cream cheese offers that smooth, indulgent base, while the cheddar brings a sharpness that cuts through the richness, and the Monterey Jack melts beautifully for that gooey pull everyone craves. A touch of garlic powder and mayonnaise rounds out the flavor and texture, giving it a little extra depth and creaminess.
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What truly elevates this dip is the layer of pepper jelly added just after baking. Whether you choose a red or green jelly, it provides a glossy, vibrant topping that’s both sweet and spicy—a perfect counterpoint to the warm cheese beneath. The jelly melts slightly on contact with the hot dip, spreading evenly into every bite and making each scoop incredibly satisfying.
This dip is not only delicious, it’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it with buttery crackers, crisp baguette slices, or even sturdy veggie sticks like celery or bell pepper strips. It’s easy to prep ahead and bake just before serving, making it a go-to option for stress-free entertaining that still delivers on flavor.
Servings and timing:
- Servings: 6
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup pepper jelly (red or green)
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices, for serving
Instructions:
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