Baked Cheesey Jalapeno Ranch Dip

The other night as my healthy Aloo Gobi was filling my home with delicious smells while it cooked away in my slow cooker, my stomach began to grumble and I noticed it still had a few hours left to cook. So, rather than making a healthy choice to have a light snack, I went the complete opposite route. Well, I guess I could have made something worse, but I know this wasn't exactly the best choice. But it was pretty tasty.

I was in the mood for something warm and savory, so I thought of everything I had in our fridge and pantry (well we don't technically have a pantry in our little kitchen, but you know what I mean). I decided to create what I have named my Baked Cheesey Jalapeno Ranch Dip. I orginally thought it would include bacon (which I will try next time), but alas, my bacon was no longer good. At least that meant it was a little healthier...

So, if you want to give this one a try, you will need:

• 1 tbsp. ranch dip mix
• 1 8 oz. package 1/3 less fat cream cheese
• 2 tbsp. light sour cream
• 1/2 c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 c. jarred jalapenos, chopped
• 1/2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley or dill 
• Salt & Pepper, to taste

Place all ingredients in the bowl of your stand mixer. Mix on medium low speed with paddle attachment until completely blended. You could also use a hand mixer.

Spread into small baking dish. I used a small Le Creuset dish I have. It's probably about 8" x 5".  FYI, I found it at Marshall's a few years ago for $9.99.  If you're ever in need of cookware, check there and Home Goods before you buy anything full price. You can find some great deals. Then place in 375 degree oven for about 20 minutes.

After removing from oven sprinkle with fresh parsley (or dill). Enjoy with corn chips or tortilla chips. This will make about 2-4 servings (depending on how hungry you are). I think there are many ways you could mix this up, like adding crumbled bacon or using green chiles instead of jalapenos, just to name a few.