Cream Cheese Dip

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this tasty dip. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Cream cheese: Make sure to use a block of cream cheese and not a tub of "cream cheese spread."
• Sour cream: I'm often asked if reduced-fat sour cream is OK. It is, but it's not recommended. The best flavor and texture come from full-fat ingredients.
• Dijon mustard: This thick and creamy French mustard adds tang and saltiness to the dip.
• Spices: I use garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
• Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds texture as well as flavor to the dip.
• Bacon bits: These add a wonderful smoky flavor and saltiness.

Variations

• You can use half mayo and half sour cream (½ cup of each). I like this version because it adds richness and flavor to the dip.
• For a thicker, more textured dip, use 2 cups of shredded cheddar. For a thinner and creamier dip, use just 1 cup. My personal preference, after trying both versions, is to use 2 cups.
• Make it spicy with ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. My husband, a fan of spicy food, really likes this version.
• Try a different cheese such as gouda or smoked gouda. It's very similar to cheddar but it has a slightly nutty flavor.
• Use chili powder instead of smoked paprika. This creates a more spicy and less smoky flavor profile.
• Use 3 minced garlic cloves instead of garlic powder. I often do that when I have fresh garlic on hand.
• ½ cup of chopped chives will add flavor and color to the dip. I wouldn't buy chives specifically for this recipe, but if you happen to have them on hand, I recommend using them.

It's so easy to make this dip! The detailed steps are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview:

• Your first step is softening the cream cheese in the microwave. I find that 10 seconds per side works well. You want it very soft so that it will be easy to mix by hand.
• Now, place the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl and use a spoon or a rubber spatula to stir it. This serves to soften it further and it also aerates it, making it fluffy.
• Add the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and spices. Mix well.
• Add the shredded cheese and mix until fully combined. This will take a couple of minutes.
• Now, mix in the bacon bits. That's it! The tasty dip is ready.

I almost always serve dips with fresh-cut veggies. They make the perfect vehicle for scooping up most dips. As you can see in the photos on this page, I often use broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, carrots, celery, and large cherry tomatoes.

Other veggie options include mini bell peppers, cucumber slices, and snow peas.

If you'd like to serve this dip with something other than vegetables, here are a few more options:

• Almond flour crackers
• Pork rinds
• Bacon chips
• Salami chips
• Eggplant chips
• Zucchini chips

It also makes a great sandwich spread - try it with this almond flour bread. And sometimes I use it to stuff deviled eggs.