Description

This creamy and flavorful cheddar cheese and hard-boiled egg dip combines smooth cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and rich mayonnaise with sharp cheddar, chopped eggs, and a blend of smoky and savory seasonings. It’s enhanced with fresh chives and optional crispy bacon and spicy jalapeños for a delicious party appetizer or snack that’s easy to prepare and beautifully styled.

Ingredients

Scale

Dairy and Cream Base

8 oz softened cream cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise

Eggs and Cheese

4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Herbs and Spices

1/4 cup finely chopped chives
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Condiments and Extras

Small dish of Dijon mustard (amount as desired, typically 1-2 tsp)
Cooked crumbled bacon (optional)
Diced green jalapeños (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the base mixture: In a small glass bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Add seasonings: Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the base.
Incorporate eggs and cheese: Fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs and shredded sharp cheddar cheese gently, so they remain evenly distributed but retain some texture.
Mix in fresh herbs: Add the finely chopped chives to the dip, folding them in thoroughly for a burst of fresh green flavor and color.
Optional add-ins: For an extra kick and texture contrast, mix in crumbled cooked bacon and diced green jalapeños if desired. Adjust quantity according to preference.
Chill before serving: Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the dip to firm up slightly.
Serve and garnish: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, garnish with a few extra chive stalks or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and serve chilled alongside crackers, vegetables, or bread.

Notes

Use fresh chives for the best flavor; dried chives can be used in a pinch but will have less color and aroma.
Adjust salt and black pepper gradually, tasting as you go to suit your preference.
For a spicier version, increase the jalapeño quantity or add a dash of hot sauce to the base mixture.
This dip can be made up to a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
Serve with assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery for variety.