Creamy Cheddar Cheese Dip (Printable)
A rich, creamy melted cheddar dip seasoned with garlic and smoked paprika, ready in 20 minutes.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Dairy
01 - 7 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 7 oz shredded cheddar cheese
03 - ⅓ cup whole milk
→ Spices & Seasonings
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
08 - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
09 - ½ teaspoon salt
→ Garnish
10 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)
# Directions:
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 the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is silky 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, stirring to prevent sticking.
04 - Remove from heat. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions if desired.
05 - Serve warm with tortilla chips, breadsticks, or fresh cut vegetables.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- It comes together in one saucepan with no fancy techniques, just patience and a wooden spoon.
- The smoked paprika and cayenne give it a backdoor heat that keeps people dipping long after they claim they are full.
02 -
- High heat is the enemy here, because boiled cheese separates into a greasy, grainy mess that no amount of stirring can fix.
- If the dip thickens too much while sitting out, a splash of warm milk and a quick stir bring it right back to life.
03 -
- Grate the cheese while it is still slightly cold from the fridge for cleaner shreds and faster melting.
- A dash of hot sauce at the end rounds out the flavor more naturally than adding extra cayenne.