Creamy Cheddar Cheese Dip (Print Version)
Velvety melted cheddar and cream cheese blend with smoky spices for an irresistible warm dip.
# What You Need:
→ Dairy
01 - 7 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 - 7 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 1/3 cup plus 1 ½ tablespoons whole milk
→ Spices & Seasonings
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
09 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
→ Garnish
10 - 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)
# Directions:
01 - In a medium saucepan set over medium-low heat, combine the softened cream cheese and whole milk. Stir continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
02 - Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese in handfuls, stirring constantly after each addition until completely melted and the mixture becomes velvety smooth.
03 - Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper if using, and salt. Continue heating gently for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring frequently to prevent the bottom from scorching.
04 - Remove the saucepan from heat. Pour the dip into a warmed serving bowl and garnish with freshly chopped chives or green onions if desired.
05 - Serve immediately while warm alongside tortilla chips, breadsticks, pretzels, or an assortment of cut raw vegetables such as celery, carrots, and bell peppers.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It comes together in twenty minutes flat, which means you can make it right before guests arrive without breaking a sweat.
- The smoked paprika and cayenne give it a depth that store bought jars will never touch.
02 -
- If the heat is too high the cheese will separate into a greasy mess, so patience on medium low is your best friend.
- This dip thickens quickly as it cools, so serve it right away or have a plan to reheat gently with a splash of milk.
03 -
- Grate the cheese while it is cold for cleaner shreds, then let it warm up before adding to the pan so it melts faster.
- A pinch of mustard powder stirred in with the spices amplifies the cheese flavor without anyone guessing your trick.