Description
This cheesy chive warm dip is a creamy, savory appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, Parmesan, fresh chives, and garlic, it bakes to a bubbly, golden perfection that pairs wonderfully with crackers, baguette slices, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
Optional Ingredients
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons cooked, crumbled bacon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the dip.
- Mix the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring an even texture throughout.
- Add the Flavorings: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh chives, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and if desired, crushed red pepper flakes or cooked crumbled bacon to add extra zest and depth.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the combined mixture into a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, smoothing the top evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the edges turn a beautiful golden brown, indicating it is perfectly cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, garnish with additional fresh chives for a burst of color and flavor, and serve warm alongside crackers, sliced baguette, pretzels, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated; just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time when ready to bake.
- For a smoother texture, consider pulsing all ingredients in a food processor before transferring to the baking dish.
- If you want to keep it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon.
