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Crispy Jalapeno Popper Football Dip

crispy jalapeno popper football dip - featured image

A nostalgic, crowd-pleasing Super Bowl snack featuring creamy jalapeno and cheddar cheese centers coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat block)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 45 medium fresh jalapenos, seeded and finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 stalks green onions, chopped
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Salt and pepper, for seasoning panko
  • Sour cream, for serving
  • Ranch dressing, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped green onions. Mix until well combined into a thick paste. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. Take about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture and roll it into a ball, then gently press it into an oval football shape. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat to make 12-15 poppers. Keep them in the fridge while preparing the breading station.
  3. Set up a breading station with three small bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs seasoned with salt and pepper.
  4. Dredge each cheese ball in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage. Finally, press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to coat all sides. Place back on the baking sheet.
  5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat (approx. 350°F). Carefully place coated poppers into the oil, ensuring not to crowd the pan.
  6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip gently.
  7. Transfer fried poppers to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with sour cream and ranch dressing.

Notes

Keep the cheese mixture cold to prevent sticking. Press panko firmly onto the cheese to ensure it sticks during frying. Control oil temperature carefully; if too hot, the outside burns before the inside warms. If too cool, the poppers become greasy. For a lighter option, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, brushing with oil first. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in an air fryer or toaster oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: Super Bowl recipe, jalapeno poppers, game day snack, fried appetizer, comfort food, spicy dip, football dip