This Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese is a bold and creamy dip with a spicy twist. Made with roasted jalapeños, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, herbs, and spices, this easy appetizer is perfect for parties, game days, or spreading on burgers and sandwiches. It’s a kicked-up version of my flavorful cowboy cream cheese (which you will also want to try!) with just the right amount of heat and flavor. If you love big, bold flavors, don’t miss my Cowboy Butter, the popular spread that is packed with garlic, herbs, and buttery goodness.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Jalapeño Peppers: Look for two large jalapeno peppers to roast for this recipe. I removed the stems, cut them in half, and removed the seeds. (Pro tip: Remove all seeds for mild heat; leave a few for an extra kick.)
- Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese has come to room temperature before blending it with the other ingredients. This will make it easier to mix everything!
How To Soften Cream Cheese Quickly
Warm Water Method: Place the wrapped block of cream cheese in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. Flip it over every few minutes or so.
Microwave Method: Remove the cream cheese from its packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave it on low power in 15-20-second intervals until it reaches the desired softness. Be careful not to overheat it, as cream cheese can quickly become too runny or even melt.
- Whole-Grain Dijon Mustard: I like the tangy flavor and little pops of texture from the mustard seeds in whole-grain Dijon mustard. Or, you can use regular Dijon or spicy brown mustard if you prefer.
- Herbs: The dried chives and parsley help balance the bold flavors and give the cream cheese a fresh, herby taste. If you’d rather use fresh herbs, use about three times as much. So, in this recipe, that means 1 tablespoon each of fresh chives and fresh parsley.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a smooth garlic flavor. You can use a small amount of minced garlic if that’s what you have, but it will be stronger and add a little texture.
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice (I like freshly squeezed juice) brightens up the dip and helps cut through the richness. It adds a fresh, zesty flavor that really stands out.
- Paprika: Paprika adds a warm, smoky flavor and gives the spread a nice color. For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead.
- Cayenne Pepper: For even more of a kick, use cayenne pepper. If you don’t want the extra heat, and the roasted jalapenos are enough, leave it out and use a bit more paprika. Crushed red pepper or jalapeño powder also works well.
Can I Use Neufchâtel Cheese Instead of Cream Cheese in Cream Cheese Dip?
Yes! Neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute for cream cheese in roasted jalapeño cowboy cream cheese dip. It’s lighter with less fat but still has a mild, creamy flavor that works perfectly in this spicy, savory spread. While it’s not quite as rich, it still blends smoothly and adds a tangy twist. It’s a smart swap if you’re looking for a lower-fat option without losing flavor!
Do You Have To Roast The Jalapeños For Cowboy Cream Cheese?
Well, I can’t make you do anything… but roasting the jalapeños gives them a smoky, sweet flavor that makes this cream cheese dip extra delicious. But if you’re short on time or don’t feel like using the oven, you can skip the roasting and use raw jalapeños instead. Just keep in mind, the flavor will be a little sharper and the texture crunchier. Roasting is definitely worth it for the best taste, and if you’re in a rush, you can even roast them in an air fryer! Just pop them in for about 7-8 minutes at 425°F for a quick and easy smoky flavor. Totally up to you!
Can You Make Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes! This cream cheese dip is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling. Make it at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend. For the best flavor, prepare it 1–2 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the more delicious it gets!
What To Serve With Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese
This creamy, spicy dip is perfect with a variety of snacks! Try serving it with homemade tortilla chips, crunchy veggie sticks (add it to your Vegetable Tray for dipping!), or your favorite crackers (I love it on Ritz!). It also makes a great spread for sandwiches, burgers (like my favorite classic cheeseburger), or wraps. For a fun twist, serve it with soft pretzel bites or even fresh baguette slices or crostini. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and enjoy this tasty dip with whatever your heart, or should I say, taste buds, desires!
Can You Make This Into A Baked Dip?
Yes, you can turn your Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese into a baked dip! Since the recipe only uses 1 cup of cream cheese, you’ll want to double or triple it to fill the dish properly. Spread the mixture into a small baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese if desired, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or toasted bread for a delicious appetizer!
How To Store Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese
To store your delicious Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to give it a quick stir before serving.
Can You Freeze Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese Dip?
Yes, you can freeze this cream cheese dip! Just scoop it into an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. After thawing, give it a good stir to smooth it out. Some texture changes are normal, but the flavor will still be delicious. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making.
Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese
Ingredients
Roasted Jalapeño Peppers
- 2 large jalapeños, stems removed, sliced in half, seeded
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
Roasted Jalapeño Peppers
- Preheat oven to 425°F.* Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush the jalapeño halves with olive oil on all sides and place them cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the skins begin to char slightly.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Once cool, roughly dice the jalapeños and set aside.
Roasted Jalapeño Cowboy Cream Cheese
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, dried chives, parsley, garlic powder, lemon juice, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Fold the chopped jalapeños into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the cowboy cream cheese to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend and deepen.
Notes
- Brush the jalapeño peppers with olive oil (just like you would for oven roasting).
- Place the peppers in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer.
- Cook for 7 minutes at 425°F, or until the skins begin to char slightly.
Did you make this recipe?
You can tag me at @iamhomesteader.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
Oh my goodness, this is SO good! I had to walk away to let others try it!
Elizabeth
This is one of the best spreads I have ever had (and I am not exaggerating)! It is so much better than any of those storebought flavored cream cheese spreads. WOW!
Bella
I love spice, so this was perfect for me. It's really good! And, you can make it even spicier if you want to.
Annabelle
This spread has a good balance of citrusy flavor and jalapeño peppers, with the cream cheese complementing rather than overpowering the other flavors.
Stephanie
Delicious! It's really creamy, but still has a little texture in there. The flavors are perfect without it being too spicy.
I tried your cowboy cream cheese and was blown away by how simple and good it is. So I had to try this the second I saw it. The roasting of the jalapeno is smart and adds something special to this spread. I used it as a spread on my morning bagel.