Save This Hot Black-Eyed Pea Dip is a creamy, spicy, and deeply satisfying appetizer that brings a touch of American Southern flair to any gathering. Perfectly balanced with the warmth of cumin and the kick of fresh jalapeños, it is an ideal choice for party guests or game day snacking.
Save By combining staples like black-eyed peas with a blend of three different dairy bases, this dip achieves a unique texture that is both chunky and smooth. The addition of red onion and bell pepper ensures a subtle crunch and a hint of sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
- Legumes: 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- Vegetables: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/3 cup diced red onion, 1/3 cup diced red bell pepper, 2 jalapeño peppers (seeded and finely diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt (to taste), 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Garnish (Optional): 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2
- In a large mixing bowl, combine black-eyed peas, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeños, and garlic.
- Step 3
- Add cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Step 4
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 1-quart baking dish.
- Step 5
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbling with a golden top.
- Step 6
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired.
- Step 7
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita, or fresh vegetables.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
This dip is perfect for hosting because it can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the mixture, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving to ensure it is hot and fresh for your guests.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne. You can also customize the flavor by swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for an even spicier profile.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this flavorful dip warm alongside a variety of dippers such as crunchy tortilla chips, soft pita bread, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots for a lighter option.
Save With its vibrant colors and bold Southern-inspired seasonings, this Hot Black-Eyed Pea Dip is guaranteed to be a favorite at any social gathering. Enjoy the perfect blend of spice and comfort in every warm, cheesy scoop.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes if baking cold.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
For milder heat, remove all seeds from the jalapeños. To increase spiciness, leave some seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices.
- → What other cheeses work well?
Monterey Jack offers a milder flavor, while pepper jack adds extra kick. A Mexican cheese blend also melts beautifully and complements the cumin and jalapeño.
- → Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Absolutely. Cook one cup dried peas according to package directions until tender, then drain well. You'll need about 2 cups cooked peas for this dish.
- → What should I serve with this dip?
Tortilla chips are classic, but warm pita bread, crusty baguette slices, or fresh vegetables like bell pepper strips and cucumber rounds all work wonderfully.
- → Can I freeze this dip?
Freezing isn't recommended as the dairy may separate when thawed. However, leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.