Description

This creamy, flavorful cheese dip combines sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese with fresh veggies and a blend of spices for a delicious appetizer that’s perfect for parties or casual snacking. Warmed on the stovetop until bubbly and smooth, it pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheeses and Dairy

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream

Vegetables

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

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully blended, creating a creamy base for the dip.
Melt the Cheeses: Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses to the skillet, stirring constantly to ensure the cheeses melt evenly and the mixture becomes smooth and cohesive without clumps.
Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, green chilies, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Add ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients and evenly distribute the spices throughout the dip.
Cook the Dip: Continue heating the cheese mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the dip is hot, bubbly, and has a smooth, creamy consistency. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together perfectly.
Serve: Transfer the hot cheese dip to a serving dish. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while warm, accompanied by tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture rather than pre-packaged shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
You can substitute fresh diced tomatoes and green chilies for canned versions if preferred for a fresher taste.
Adjust the chili powder and green chilies amount to control the dip’s spiciness according to your taste.
If the dip thickens too much while cooling, gently reheat with a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
This dip is best served warm but can be kept warm in a small slow cooker during parties.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheese dip, creamy dip, cheddar cheese dip, party appetizer, warm cheese dip, easy appetizer