Description
This creamy and flavorful Ham and Cheese Dip combines smooth cream cheese, tangy sour cream, sharp cheddar, and smoky ham with a hint of spice from green chiles and smoked paprika. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with melted cheddar and fresh green onions, it makes an irresistible appetizer perfect for gatherings, parties, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Base
- 2 packages cream cheese (softened)
- 8 ounces sour cream (1 cup)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 4 ounces diced green chiles (fire-roasted preferred, do not drain)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup smoked ham (chopped into bite-size pieces)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded, for topping)
- Green onions (chopped, for garnish)
- Ritz crackers or toasted baguette slices (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the dip.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese for 1 to 2 minutes until fluffy and smooth. Then add the sour cream and continue beating to combine.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, diced green chiles (including their juices), smoked paprika, and freshly ground black pepper. Beat again to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
- Fold in Ham: Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped smoked ham to ensure even distribution throughout the dip without overmixing.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Scrape the creamy mixture into a 1-quart pie plate or similar sized baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the dip.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top just begins to brown and the dip is hot and bubbly.
- Garnish: Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for added freshness and color.
- Serve: Serve the dip hot alongside Ritz crackers or toasted baguette slices for scooping and enjoying.
Notes
- You can substitute the smoked ham with any cooked smoked meat or turkey if preferred.
- For extra spice, add a small pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps when mixing.
- Leftover dip can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Use fire-roasted green chiles for a smoky depth, but regular diced green chiles work well too.