The Cheese Dip That Will Make You Famous Recipe
A rich and creamy cheese dip bursting with bold flavors from sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a blend of fresh vegetables and spices, perfect for parties or casual snacking with chips and veggies.
- Author: Naya
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
Dairy
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Serving
- Tortilla chips or fresh veggies for serving
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream cheese and sour cream. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well-blended, creating a creamy base.
- Add the Cheeses: Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly. Continue to stir until all the cheese is completely melted and the dip achieves a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Add the Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, diced green chilies, chopped green onions, and chopped fresh cilantro. Follow by adding ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Cook the Dip: Maintain the dip over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5 to 7 minutes. Heat until the dip is hot, bubbly, and fully blended, with a smooth texture.
- Serve: Transfer the hot cheese dip to a serving dish. Garnish with extra chopped green onions or cilantro if desired. Serve immediately alongside tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients where possible for the best flavor, especially for tomatoes and chilies.
- If the dip is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the consistency.
- Adjust the chili powder and green chilies based on your spice preference.
- This dip is best served warm; reheat gently if needed.
- Substitute with low-fat cheeses and sour cream for a lighter version, though flavor will be creamier with full-fat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 1.5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: cheese dip, cheddar cheese recipe, creamy cheese dip, party appetizer, spicy cheese dip, Monterey Jack dip