Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that's sure to impress your guests? Look no further! This creamy, cheesy bagel dip recipe featuring the sharp, nutty flavor of Old English cheese is the perfect solution for your next gathering. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers. This delicious dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game nights, or a simple weeknight snack. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly you can whip up this homemade culinary delight!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces Old English cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped chives (for garnish, optional)
- Bagels, crackers, or vegetables for serving
Instructions:
-
Combine the cheeses: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded Old English cheese and softened cream cheese. Make sure the cream cheese is truly soft for easy mixing.
-
Add wet ingredients: Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, and milk to the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
-
Season to perfection: Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
-
Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling step also helps the dip thicken slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve.
-
Garnish and enjoy: Before serving, garnish with chopped chives (if desired) for a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve with your favorite bagel chips, crackers, or even vegetable sticks for a healthier option.
Tips for the Best Bagel Dip:
- Cheese selection: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Old English would also be delicious.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick if you prefer a spicier dip.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with other herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Dried dill or parsley would be great additions.
- Make it ahead: This dip can be made a day or two in advance, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Bacon Bagel Dip: Crumble cooked bacon and add it to the dip for a savory twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Bagel Dip: Add shredded cooked chicken and a dash of buffalo wing sauce for a spicy kick.
- Roasted Red Pepper Bagel Dip: Add a roasted red pepper for a smoky and sweet flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 (depending on serving size and additions)
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This simple yet flavorful bagel dip is perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation, delicious taste, and versatility make it a true winner among healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and easy recipes for homemade cooking. Enjoy!