Cheddar Scallion Dip

Updated April 5, 2023

Total Time

5 minutes (Prep Time only; No cooking required)

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, at room temperature, cubed (softened to ensure smooth mixing)

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) mayonnaise (light olive oil mayonnaise can substitute for a lighter option)

• 1 scallion (white and green parts), thinly sliced (both sections for balanced flavor and color)

• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt, plus additional to taste

• Black pepper, to taste (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika

• 1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice, as needed (adjust for consistency)

• ½ cup (50g) sharp Cheddar cheese, finely grated (aged or extra-sharp varieties recommended)

• 1 small garlic clove, mashed to a paste (optional; use a garlic press or the back of a knife)

• Hot sauce, to taste (optional, for heat)

Preparation

Step 1: Prep Core Ingredients

Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature: If refrigerated, leave it out for 30–45 minutes to soften. Thinly slice the scallion, separating the white bulb (mild, nutty flavor) and green stalks (bright, fresh aroma). Mash the garlic clove into a smooth paste using a garlic press or the flat side of a chef’s knife.

Step 2: Blend the Base Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, thinly sliced scallion, fine sea salt, optional black pepper, and sweet paprika. Using a fork or a silicone spatula, mash and stir the ingredients until completely smooth and evenly incorporated. This step ensures the base is creamy and well-seasoned.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency and Add Cheese

Gradually stir in the fresh orange juice (start with 1 tablespoon) to loosen the mixture if it is too thick. Continue adding juice until the dip reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency (add up to 2 tablespoons total as needed). Fold in the finely grated sharp Cheddar cheese, stirring until fully combined. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or additional orange juice if needed.

Step 4: Optional Enhancements

For extra flavor, incorporate optional ingredients:

• Garlic and Heat: Stir in the mashed garlic paste and a few dashes of hot sauce.

• Texture Upgrade: Transfer the dip to a food processor and pulse briefly (3–4 pulses) for an ultra-smooth finish.

• Custom Twists: Add ¼ cup crumbled crispy bacon for smoky depth, or ¼ teaspoon minced jalapeño/Serrano for heat. For tang, substitute orange juice with lime juice or tangelos.

Step 5: Final Melding (Pro Tip)

For optimal flavor, refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. For best results, prepare the dip 1–2 days in advance; this deepens the taste and allows the cream cheese to integrate with other components.

User Adaptations & Reviews

• “Lemon juice instead of orange, extra cheddar—my kid said it was ‘the best ever’!”

• “Added bacon, jalapeño, and tangelos for a citrusy, spicy kick—OJ is the secret brightener!”

• “Make it the day before! Flavors explode, and it’s perfect with crudités, bagel chips, or veggies on hot days.”

This dip is ideal for casual gatherings, offering a balance of creamy, tangy, and savory notes that shine with fresh produce or crispy snacks. Enjoy!