Description
Pretzel Dip is the ultimate creamy, cheesy party appetizer—perfectly rich, tangy, and easy to make. Made with cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, and simple spices, this dip pairs beautifully with soft pretzels, crackers, or veggies. Serve it warm and melty or chilled and smooth for any occasion, from holidays to game day gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish
Optional Add-ins: Crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes or microwave briefly until soft.
- Mix the Base: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Cheese & Seasonings: Stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Warm (Optional): Heat in a small saucepan over low heat until melted and creamy, stirring constantly.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with chopped chives or parsley and serve warm or chilled with soft pretzels.
Notes
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
- Use full-fat ingredients: For the richest, creamiest dip.
- Low and slow heat: Avoid boiling to prevent curdling or separation.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving.
- Storage: Keeps in the fridge up to 4–5 days; not suitable for freezing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizers, Dips
- Method: Mixing, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Pretzel Dip, Cheese Dip for Pretzels, Cream Cheese Dip, Cheddar Pretzel Dip, Soft Pretzel Sauce, Party Dips, Easy Appetizer, Warm Cheese Dip, Sour Cream Dip, Tailgate Food