Parmesan Dip

A creamy, savory dip featuring rich Parmesan cheese blended with classic seasonings—ideal for parties, game nights, or simply enjoying with veggies and bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultra‑creamy texture with bold, tangy Parmesan flavor
  • Versatile—pairs beautifully with chips, veggies, breadsticks, or crackers
  • Made in minutes with simple ingredients
  • Easy to customize—add herbs, bacon, or spices for extra flair
  • Crowd‑favorite that’s great for gatherings or snacking

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Cream cheese (softened)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic (minced) or garlic powder
  • Fresh lemon juice or vinegar
  • Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh herbs (like chives, parsley, dill) or spices (paprika, chili flakes)

Directions

  1. Soften base: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sour cream (or yogurt) until smooth.
  2. Add flavors: Stir in grated Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
  3. Season: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Blend until creamy and well combined.
  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to develop flavor.
  5. Garnish & serve: Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika. Serve chilled with dippers.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 1½–2 cups of dip (serves 8–10 as appetizer)
  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Chill time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended)
  • Total time: ~35 minutes

Variations

  • Herbed Parmesan: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil.
  • Spicy Jalapeño: Add finely diced jalapeño and a dash of hot sauce.
  • Bacon & Chive: Fold in crisp bacon bits and chopped chives.
  • Roasted Garlic: Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a milder, caramelized flavor.
  • Italian‑Style: Add sun‑dried tomatoes and oregano for a Mediterranean twist.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving again. This dip is best enjoyed chilled—no reheating needed. If it thickens too much in the fridge, stir in a little milk or sour cream to loosen.

FAQs

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt for tang and creaminess, or replace with an equal amount of mayonnaise (though flavor will be slightly richer).

Can I make this dip ahead?

Yes—make it a day ahead. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes—as long as dippers are gluten-free, the dip itself is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use pre‑grated Parmesan?

Yes—but freshly grated has better texture and flavor. Pre‑grated may pack in harder.

How long will it last?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for 5 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze this dip?

Freezing isn’t recommended—it may separate when thawed.

How do I make it thinner?

Stir in a little milk, cream, or extra sour cream to reach desired consistency.

Can I add other cheeses?

Absolutely—stir in cheddar, smoked Gouda, or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

What dippers go best with it?

Try vegetables (carrots, celery, cucumber), breadsticks, pita chips, crackers, or sturdy chips like kettle-cooked varieties.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes—use vegan cream cheese and vegan Parmesan-style cheese, then follow the same method.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Dip is a quick and flavorful option for any occasion. With its creamy consistency and savory, cheesy punch, it’s perfect for dipping and sharing. Plus, it’s easily customizable to fit your taste preferences—add a twist or keep it classic, and enjoy this crowd-pleasing dip at your next gathering.

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Parmesan Dip

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time:
  • Total Time: 35 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: About 1½ cups 1x
  • Category: Dip / Appetizer
  • Method: No-cook / Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy, savory Parmesan cheese dip perfect for pairing with bread, veggies, or crackers—rich, cheesy, and easy to whip up.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and grated Parmesan.
  2. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and black pepper; stir until smooth and well blended.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lemon for zing or black pepper for kick.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  5. Before serving, give it a final stir and garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
  • Can be made a day ahead—cover and refrigerate up to 3 days.
  • For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Great with breadsticks, tortilla chips, carrot sticks, or crostini.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 Tbsp
  • Calories: 80 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 280 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg

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