Creamy Cheese Dip (Print version)
Rich, melty cheddar and cream cheese blend seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic. Perfect party appetizer.
# What goes in:
→ Dairy
01 - 7 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 7 oz shredded cheddar cheese
03 - ⅓ cup plus 1 ½ tbsp whole milk
→ Spices & Seasonings
04 - 1 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1 tsp onion powder
06 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
07 - ½ tsp black pepper
08 - ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
09 - ½ tsp salt
→ Garnish
10 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)
# Cooking steps:
01 - In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the cream cheese and milk. Stir continuously until smooth and fully melted together.
02 - Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and the mixture is velvety smooth.
03 - Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and salt. Continue heating gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking.
04 - Remove from heat. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
05 - Serve warm with tortilla chips, breadsticks, or cut vegetables.
# Tips from flavorandfeast:
01 -
- It comes together in under twenty minutes and disappears even faster.
- The smoked paprika adds a subtle depth that makes people guess your secret ingredient.
02 -
- If the dip gets too thick as it cools, stir in a splash of warm milk and it will come right back to life.
- High heat is the enemy here because it causes the cheese proteins to seize and turn stringy instead of smooth.
03 -
- Always shred your own cheese from a block because the convenience of pre shredded is not worth the grainy texture it produces.
- A pinch of mustard powder stirred in with the spices adds a tangy depth that nobody can identify but everyone loves.