Jalapeno Popper Spread

"Absolutely the most addicting dip ever! I was skeptical that the ingredients would taste well together, and nothing more should be added (like bacon). Well, I used fresh parmesan, and it was perfect, ..." See morebetter than cheddar. I tried adding bacon and it detracted from the taste. The dip was not mild, but not tearfully spicy either, so if you need it REALLY hot, doubling the jalepenos would suit you. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND using panko (Kikkoman makes a grocery-store version) crumbs on top of the parmesan (10/08 UPDATE TIP!!! MIX the 1/2 cup panko crumbs WITH your FRESH grated parmesan and sprinkle the mixture atop. It comes out SO crispy and golden, and prevents the cheese melting into a hard crust you can't scoop through. Perfect, perfect!); and you'll bake up a beautiful golden, crunchy coating -- that "deep-fried" taste! Do bake in the oven. Last but not least, the large crowds that have devoured this agree that the best DIPPER is TOASTED FRENCH BREAD slices (place on pan under the broiler for a couple *careful* minutes per side), distantly followed by butter crackers. Tortilla chips are the least favorite, and sourdough bread (my usual favorite) seemed too sharp to accentuate the dip. Hope that helps any questions YOU might have! =) "

"Thank you for all of the wonderful comments! I also use a whole 4 oz can of jalapenos, because I like it spicy. I use REAL shredded parmesan on the top. It does make the best "popper" flavor. You ..." See morejust have to trust me. In order to get the correct consistency, you have to stick to the recipe. Do not substitute with sour cream and you must use the mayo. The best presentation you can do is REAL shredded parmesan cheese on top, and bake it in the oven in a glass pie dish. It comes out golden brown and gorgeous! Mmmm... Also, you'd think bacon would be great in this. It's not. Again, you just have to trust me. People rate this recipe less than 5 stars when they add to it and that's not the recipe that I've shared. Please stick to the recipe for the best results, and use the baked variation with real shredded parmesan cheese (not the green can stuff). Enjoy!!!"

"I took this to a football party & it was DEVOURED! i did what others suggested: used 6 fresh jalapenos, used 1/2 C mayo & 1/2 C sour cream, omitted the chiles, added 1/2 C shredded cheddar, & finishe..." See mored it off with italian bread crumbs & a sprinkle of cheddar. I served it with sliced baguette. next time I make it, I'm going to try adding some pepperjack cheese. It could have been a bit spicier for me."