Name: Broccoli Cheddar Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped broccoli (fresh, steamed or blanched, or frozen, thawed and drained); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping); Cooking spray or butter for greasing baking dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. It brings the comfort of broccoli cheddar soup into a shareable, party-friendly form. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still indulging in melty, gooey cheese. Plus, it comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh or frozen broccoli
Cream cheese
Sour cream
Mayonnaise
Sharp cheddar cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch until tender. Chop into small pieces. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
Stir in the cheddar cheese, broccoli, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish and smooth the top.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the dip is hot and bubbly with golden edges.
Serve warm with chips, crackers, bread, or vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people as an appetizer. Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a baking time of 25 minutes, making the total time around 35 minutes.

Variations

Spice it up: Use diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Use other cheeses: Swap in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for variety.
Make it lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Serve in a bread bowl: Hollow out a round loaf and pour the dip in before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual portions until hot. Stir before serving to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dip.

Can this dip be made ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, but you can mix it with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for creaminess.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 1–2 hours until hot and bubbly, stirring occasionally.

How do I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños to taste.

Can I serve this cold?

This dip is best served hot, as the cheese is melty and smooth when warm.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, try mixing in spinach, artichokes, or roasted red peppers for variation.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your ingredients (especially the mayonnaise and seasonings) are certified gluten-free.

What should I serve this with?

Tortilla chips, baguette slices, crackers, or even raw vegetables all pair well.

Can I freeze this dip?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become grainy once thawed.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Dip is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s quick to make and always a hit. With its creamy texture, cheesy richness, and tender broccoli, it’s the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Serve it hot and bubbly straight from the oven, and watch it disappear in minutes.