Creamy Dip Bowl (Print Version)

A rich, smooth creamy dip ideal for snacking with vegetables, chips, or crackers.

# What You Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 1 cup sour cream
02 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
03 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

04 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
06 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
07 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice

→ Spices & Seasonings

08 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
11 - Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - In a medium mixing bowl, blend sour cream, cream cheese, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
02 - Incorporate chives, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice; stir until evenly distributed.
03 - Add onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if desired; mix thoroughly.
04 - Taste and modify seasoning as needed to suit preference.
05 - Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
06 - Serve chilled with an assortment of fresh vegetables, chips, or crackers as dippers.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • It takes less time than scrolling through your phone, but tastes like you've been cooking all day.
  • The flavor deepens as it sits in the fridge, so you can make it ahead and actually enjoy your guests instead of stirring.
  • It works with literally anything you dip into it, from carrot sticks to fancy crackers to leftover chips at the bottom of the bag.
02 -
  • If your cream cheese isn't soft, the whole thing gets bumpy and sad. Leave it out for 15 minutes, and your future self will thank you.
  • This dip actually tastes better the next day when the flavors have mingled. Make it the morning of your party if you can, not 20 minutes before.
  • Garlic gets sharper as it sits, so taste before serving and don't add extra garlic thinking it's too mild at first.
03 -
  • Chill your serving bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes before filling it—this keeps the dip colder longer and looks intentional.
  • Taste as you season and remember that cold foods need slightly more salt than warm ones, so don't be shy with seasoning right before serving.

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