15-Minute Cheddar Cheese Spread Recipe
This 15-Minute Cheddar Cheese Spread is a creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy dip perfect for entertaining or a quick snack. Combining sharp cheddar with cream cheese, mayonnaise, and flavorful spices, this spread whips up quickly in a food processor for a smooth and fluffy texture. Serve it with pretzel chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Cheese Spread
- 2 cups freshly-grated sharp cheddar cheese, room temperature (140 grams)
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, room temperature (226 grams)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (80 grams)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper), plus more to taste
- 1 pinch kosher salt
For Garnish and Serving
- 1 tablespoon freshly-snipped chives (6 grams)
- Pretzel chips, crackers, and/or veggies (for serving)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, white pepper, and a pinch of kosher salt into the bowl of a food processor.
- Process to Smoothness: Whip the ingredients in the food processor for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides every minute to ensure even mixing. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more spices if desired.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the cheese spread into a shallow bowl. Garnish with freshly snipped chives. Serve immediately with pretzel chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables as dippers. Enjoy!
Notes
- Allow the cream cheese and cheddar cheese to come to room temperature to ensure easy blending and a smooth spread.
- Adjust the cayenne and pepper to your preferred spice level.
- This spread can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- For a smoother texture, you can blend longer, but do not over-process to avoid graininess.
- Variations can include adding fresh herbs like parsley or swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
