There are some dishes that never need improving, and this little church-supper favorite is one of them. Jalapeno Sullivan dip is the kind of old-fashioned Midwestern party recipe that earns its place by being simple, dependable, and mighty hard to stop eating once it hits the table. With just three ingredients, it bakes up warm and creamy with a gentle kick from the jalapenos, and it’s exactly the sort of recipe a busy home cook would tuck into a recipe box and carry to every potluck for years.
Serve this dip hot with sturdy crackers, corn chips, toasted baguette slices, or crisp celery sticks for scooping. It also fits right in alongside a supper spread of ham sliders, little smokies, deviled eggs, or a relish tray, and if you’re setting out a game-day table, a crock of chili and a pan of bars nearby would make it feel like a proper gathering.
3-Ingredient Jalapeno Sullivan Dip
Servings: 8
Ingredients
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup mayonnaise
1 jar (4 ounces) sliced jalapenos, drained and chopped
Directions
1. Heat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a small baking dish or 1-quart casserole.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped jalapenos until smooth and evenly combined.
3. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top into an even layer.
4. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the dip is hot through and lightly golden around the top and edges.
5. Let it stand for 5 minutes, then serve warm with sturdy crackers or chips for dipping.
Variations & Tips
Milder version: If you want the flavor without quite so much heat, use fewer jalapenos or swap in mild canned green chiles for part of them. You’ll still get that old-school creamy tang, just with a gentler finish.
Make-ahead tip: Stir the dip together a day ahead, cover it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator. When it’s time for the supper or potluck, just spread it in the baking dish and bake as directed.
Extra-rich church-supper style: Some folks like to scatter a little shredded cheddar over the top before baking. It’s not part of the original three-ingredient charm, but it does give the top a deeper golden finish and an extra cozy bite.
Best dipping tip: This dip is soft and creamy, so choose sturdy crackers or thick chips that can hold up to a generous scoop. Thin wafers tend to snap right when things are getting good.