Sourdough Jalapeño Popper Bread Bowl

Creamy, Spicy & Baked in a Crusty Sourdough Loaf

This Jalapeño Popper Bread Bowl brings all the bold flavors of jalapeño poppers—creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and spicy heat—right into a warm, crusty sourdough loaf. With layers of cheddar, cream cheese, and crispy bacon baked to golden perfection inside the bread bowl—it’s a party-ready appetizer that serves a crowd and looks like a pro made it.

A total flavor bomb perfect for game day, potlucks, or anytime you want something totally unforgettable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• 🧀 Cheesy Goodness: A blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese gives depth and melt.
• 🌶️ Popper Perfection: Jalapeños bring heat and texture—plus that classic jalapeño popper vibe.
• 🥓 Bacon Boost: Adds smoky richness and crunch on top.
• 🥖 Baked in Sourdough: The hollowed-out loaf becomes its own serving vessel—crispy and delicious.
• ⏱️ Make-Ahead Magic: Prep the filling ahead and assemble just before baking.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8):

For the Bread Bowl:

• 1 large sourdough round loaf (about 8–9 inches wide)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (or garlic salt for extra zing)

For the Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese , softened (½ cup – room temp for smooth mixing)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 4–5 fresh jalapeños , halved:
  • 2 jalapeños, diced
  • 2 jalapeños, sliced into rings (for garnish)
• 4 slices bacon , cooked until crisp and crumbled
• ¼ cup sour cream (adds silkiness and balances spice)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (for deep smoky flavor)
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper , to taste

For Garnish:

• Extra jalapeño slices (fresh or pickled)
• Additional bacon crumbles
• Chopped cilantro or parsley
• Ranch dressing or hot sauce (for drizzling or dipping)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Bread Bowl

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) .

Using a serrated knife, carefully slice off the top 1 inch of the sourdough loaf.

Hollow out the center using a spoon or small knife—leave about 1-inch thick walls .

Brush the inside with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder .

Place the hollowed loaf on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes to crisp slightly and warm up the bread.

Set aside while preparing the filling.

Tip: Save the soft interior pieces for dipping later!

Step 2: Make the Jalapeño Popper Filling

In a large bowl, mix:

• Cream cheese
• Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses
• Sour cream
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Diced jalapeños
• Crumble in half the bacon

Season with salt and pepper .

Stir well until fully combined and creamy.

Fold in half the sliced jalapeños (optional for extra texture).

Let chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes so the mixture firms up slightly before baking.

Step 3: Fill & Bake the Bread Bowl

Spoon the cheesy jalapeño popper mixture into the prepared sourdough bowl.

Top with remaining jalapeño rings and bacon crumbles .

Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the cheese is bubbly and golden around the edges.

For an extra-crispy finish, place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes —watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve Warm

Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley .

Serve warm with the bread lid on the side for scooping or dipping.

Drizzle with ranch dressing or hot sauce for added flair.

Tips for Success:

• 🧈 Use Room-Temp Cheese: Prevents lumps and ensures even melting.
• 🌶️ Control the Heat: Leave seeds in for more spice—or remove them for mild flavor.
• 🧁 Make Ahead Option: Fill the bread bowl earlier in the day and refrigerate—bake just before guests arrive.
• 🧀 Cheese Swap Magic: Try goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.
• ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Cool completely and freeze leftovers in portions—reheat gently in oven next time.

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect at football parties, holiday get-togethers, or movie nights.
• Great with beer, sweet tea, or a cold glass of milk.
• Ideal as a centerpiece appetizer or alongside wings, chili, or salad.

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 8 servings – approximate):

(Including bread bowl and regular toppings – per generous portion)

• Calories: ~300 kcal
• Protein: ~10g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fat: ~20g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugar: ~3g

This Sourdough Jalapeño Popper Bread Bowl proves that appetizers don’t have to be complicated to be incredible. With its rich, gooey cheese filling, crispy jalapeños, and smoky bacon—it’s a flavor-packed crowd favorite that disappears fast.

So go ahead and make this today… because once you try it—you’ll be making it again and again!