Creamy Dip Bowl (Printable)

Smooth and flavorful creamy dip with herbs, ideal for snacking or as a party starter.

# What You’ll 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 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 - Add chopped chives, parsley, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir to combine evenly.
03 - Add onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if desired. Mix well to distribute seasonings.
04 - Taste and modify salt or spices as preferred to achieve balanced flavor.
05 - Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
06 - Present chilled alongside fresh vegetables, chips, or crackers for dipping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in ten minutes, which means you can make it while guests are already at the door.
  • The flavor deepens as it sits, so you can prep it hours ahead and actually have less stress, not more.
  • One bowl satisfies vegetarians, gluten-free eaters, and people who just want something creamy to dip into without thinking twice.
02 -
  • Softening the cream cheese first is not optional—cold cream cheese will create lumps no matter how hard you stir, and you'll end up with grainy dip instead of silky.
  • The resting time in the fridge is where the real magic happens; the herbs continue to release their flavors and the whole thing tastes intentional rather than just mixed.
  • Taste it before serving and adjust the seasonings one more time, because flavors mellow as things get cold.
03 -
  • Use room-temperature cream cheese, not cold, or you'll be stirring for ten minutes and wondering why it won't cooperate.
  • If you want it slightly less rich, fold in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt instead of using straight mayo, and the flavor stays bright without losing that creamy texture.