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Ultimate Festive Warm Baked Cheese Dip

This is the ultimate centerpiece dip for any holiday gathering, featuring a creamy, decadent blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and three types of cheese, spiced with garlic, smoked paprika, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Baked until golden and bubbly, it's served with an array of dippers for a perfect, crowd-pleasing appetizer. It's a forgiving and flexible recipe designed to make you the star host.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced white and green parts separated
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • For serving: toasted baguette slices, pita chips, pretzel crisps, bell pepper strips, cucumber rounds
  • For garnish: extra sliced green onions, fresh chopped parsley or chives

Equipment

  • Medium baking dish (8x8 inch or 9-inch pie dish)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or sturdy whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Can opener
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Oven
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish (8x8 inch or 9-inch pie dish).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat until completely smooth and lump-free.
  3. Add the shredded cheddar, Gruyère (or Swiss), and half of the Parmesan cheese to the creamy base. Stir until the cheeses are evenly distributed.
  4. Fold in the well-drained diced tomatoes with chilies, the white parts of the sliced green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot throughout, the edges are bubbling, and the top is golden brown.
  7. For an extra-golden top, optionally broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  8. Let the dip rest for 5 minutes to set slightly. Garnish with the green onion tops and fresh herbs. Serve warm with an assortment of dippers.

Notes

For best results, ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. The dip can be assembled (unbaked), covered, and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance; let sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking, adding a few extra minutes if needed. Variations: fold in 1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon or chopped ham, or add a few tablespoons of hot sauce or pickled jalapeños for spice. Provide gluten-free crackers and veggies for guests with dietary needs. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or microwave.