Description
This creamy, flavorful cheese dip combines sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, cream cheese, and sour cream with a zesty blend of diced tomatoes, green chilies, and fresh herbs. Perfectly spiced with cumin, garlic, and chili powder, it’s an irresistible appetizer that will quickly become a party favorite when served warm with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Dairy
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
Vegetables and Herbs
- 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 cream cheese and sour cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, forming a creamy base.
- Melt the Cheeses: Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly to ensure the cheeses melt evenly and the mixture becomes smooth and homogeneous.
- Add the Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, diced green chilies, green onions, and fresh cilantro. Then add the ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the dip.
- Cook the Dip: Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes until the dip is hot, bubbly, and has a smooth consistency, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Serve: Transfer the warm cheese dip into a serving dish and garnish with additional chopped green onions or cilantro if desired. Serve immediately paired with tortilla chips or fresh veggies for dipping.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and creaminess.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies and chili powder to control the spiciness.
- For a thicker dip, reduce the sour cream slightly or add more shredded cheese.
- This dip can be kept warm in a slow cooker set to low if serving over a longer period.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheese dip, party appetizer, sharp cheddar dip, creamy cheese dip, easy cheese dip, warm cheese dip, Monterey Jack cheese dip
