Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
This easy 10-minute cream cheese dip comes together in minutes with bold, tangy, smoky flavors and a lusciously creamy texture perfect for any gathering.
Whether you’re entertaining or craving a quick snack, this cream cheese dip is your go-to, loaded with cheddar, bacon, and spices for instant crowd-pleasing flavor.
Creamy, Cheesy Essentials for Easy 10-Minute Cream Cheese Dip
- Cream cheese – The rich, creamy base that gives this dip its velvety body and luscious mouthfeel.
- Sour cream – Adds a slight tang and lightens the dip’s texture while enhancing its smoothness.
- Dijon mustard – Brings a sharp, subtly spicy note that balances the richness.
- Cheddar cheese – Finely shredded for easy mixing, it adds sharpness and body to every bite.
- Bacon bits – Smoky and savory, these add irresistible texture and umami flavor.
How to Make It: Easy 10-Minute Cream Cheese Dip in a Snap
Soften the cream cheese in the microwave for just a few seconds, then mix until smooth and fluffy.
Stir in sour cream, Dijon mustard, and spices until the mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
Fold in shredded cheddar and bacon bits for texture and savory depth. Serve immediately or let sit to meld flavors.
Tips & Flavor Swaps to Keep Things Interesting
Letting the dip rest for 30 minutes before serving allows the bold flavors to fully develop, making each bite more intense and satisfying.
For added zest, stir in chopped scallions or chives. Want extra heat? A few dashes of hot sauce or diced jalapeños make great additions. This dip also pairs beautifully with both crunchy vegetables and hearty chips.
If you’re not into bacon, smoked almonds or sun-dried tomatoes offer a great alternative, keeping that savory punch without the meat.
Keeping It Fresh: Storing Your Dip the Right Way
Store any leftover cream cheese dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When ready to enjoy again, take it out 30 minutes in advance to bring it back to that ideal creamy consistency.
Freezing isn’t recommended—the dairy-based ingredients don’t hold up well and can result in a watery, separated texture after thawing.
Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ cup bacon bits
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups cheddar cheese finely shredded
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup sour cream 8 ounces
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese by placing it on a microwave-safe plate and heating for approximately 10 seconds on each side. Transfer to a medium-sized mixing bowl and stir with a spoon or rubber spatula until the texture is smooth and fluffy.
- Incorporate the sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, stirring thoroughly to achieve a uniform mixture.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar and bacon bits, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Serve immediately, or allow the dip to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to enhance flavor integration.
Notes
Although it can be enjoyed right away, a brief resting period at room temperature significantly improves the depth of flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Let the portion intended for serving sit out for 30 minutes beforehand.
Freezing is discouraged due to the resulting compromise in texture and consistency.
