Save A creamy, gooey cheese dip with the tangy kick of dill pickles, perfect for parties or game day snacking.
The first time I made this dip, my guests were instantly hooked and the bowl disappeared in minutes. It always sparks curiosity and is now one of my signature party recipes.
Ingredients
- Dairy: 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup whole milk
- Vegetables (Pickles): 2/3 cup dill pickles (finely chopped), 1 small jalapeño (finely diced, optional), 2 tablespoons pickle juice
- Aromatics: 1 small shallot (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Spices (Herbs): 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped, plus more for garnish)
- Other: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Melt butter in a medium ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add shallot and jalapeño, sauté for 2 minutes to soften. Add garlic, cook 1 minute more.
- Add Pickles & Spices:
- Stir in chopped pickles and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
- Melt Cream Cheese:
- Lower heat and add cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Add Milk & Cheeses:
- Gradually whisk in milk, then add shredded cheeses. Stir constantly until melted and creamy.
- Season:
- Stir in pickle juice, black pepper, and chopped dill. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Bake:
- Transfer skillet to oven. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes, until bubbling and lightly golden.
- Garnish:
- Remove from oven. Garnish with extra dill and chopped pickles.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with tortilla chips, pretzel bites, or bread.
Save This cheesy dip is now requested at every family gathering. Even hesitant pickle lovers always take a second scoop once they taste it together with the melted cheese.
Required Tools
Medium ovenproof skillet, mixing spoon (or spatula), cheese grater, chopping board and knife
Allergen Information
Contains milk. Potential gluten if served with bread or some chips. Check labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 230 calories, 17 g total fat, 6 g carbohydrates, 12 g protein
Save If making ahead, assemble then bake just before serving for best gooey texture. Serve with your favorite dippers for maximum crunch.
Recipe Guide
- → What makes this dip tangy?
Dill pickles and pickle juice infuse the dip with a bright, tangy flavor balanced by creamy cheeses.
- → Can I make this milder?
Substitute Monterey Jack with mozzarella or omit the jalapeño for a gentler, less spicy profile.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, if you choose vegetarian-friendly cheeses, this dish fits a vegetarian diet.
- → What can I serve with this dip?
Tortilla chips, pretzel bites, and crusty bread pair well with the gooey cheese and tangy pickles.
- → Can this be made vegan?
Use plant-based cheeses and milk for a vegan option while keeping all other flavors intact.
- → How do I adjust for spice?
Increase the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne for more heat, or leave out the jalapeño to reduce spice.