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Cheddar Scallion Dip Recipe
Lunch

Cheddar Scallion Dip Recipe

A carefully crafted dish that blends traditional and modern cooking techniques to deliver comforting flavors for every occasion.

⏱️

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Difficulty

Medium

📂

Category

Lunch

Recipe Details

Cheddar Scallion Dip Recipe

Updated: April 5, 2023

Rating: 4/5 (1,234 ratings)

Comments: 101 comments (view comments)

Description

A lighter, kid-friendly twist on classic pimento cheese, this creamy dip replaces spicy red peppers with bright, fresh notes. Crafted with a smooth cream cheese base, it balances mild cheddar richness with a subtle sweetness from freshly squeezed orange juice. Versatile for both family lunches and adult gatherings: serve with celery and crackers for children’s packed meals, or elevate with a dash of Tabasco and garlic for a savory cocktail spread.

Key Details

  • Total Time: 5 minutes (prep only; no cooking required)

  • Servings: ~4 (adjust based on portion size)

  • Storage: Keeps for up to 5 days refrigerated in an airtight container

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature

  • ½ cup (50g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

  • 2–3 green onions/scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)

  • 1–2 tbsp fresh orange juice (from ½ medium orange; adjust for sweetness preference)

  • ¼ tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove garlic, mashed to a paste) optional

  • 1–2 dashes Tabasco sauce optional

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation Steps

  1. Prep Ingredients: Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes. Grate cheddar and slice scallions (reserve green parts for garnish).

  2. Cream Base: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.

  3. Mix Core Flavors: Add grated cheddar, scallion whites, and orange juice. Stir until fully incorporated.

  4. Customize Heat/Sweetness: Fold in garlic paste (if using) and Tabasco for spice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Final Touch: Fold in scallion greens for a pop of color and mild onion brightness.

Serving & Storage

  • Kid-Friendly Pairings: Pack with celery sticks and whole-grain crackers for lunchboxes.

  • Adult Twist: Serve with crispy potato chips or pretzels alongside cocktails.

  • Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days; let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

Featured In

No PB&J Allowed? Put Dips Into Lunchboxes

Note: The recipe’s quick prep time and adaptable flavors make it a pantry staple for last-minute gatherings or busy weeknights.