Sour cream and chive dip is a classic party favourite that has been enjoyed for decades and it's a favourite in our house. This creamy and tangy dip is made with just 4 ingredients and is perfect for dipping chips, crisps, or vegetables. We also love it as a topping for baked potatoes, tacos, and nachos. It pretty much goes on everything!
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Made with just a 4 simple ingredients (and seasoning), this sour cream dip is easy to make and can be adapted to suit your own tastes. It really is as simple as mixing everything in a bowl.
The base of the dip is sour cream, which gives it a really creamy and tangy flavour. Chives add a subtle onion-like flavour and a pop of green colour. We also add mayo for extra creaminess and a little lemon juice to lighten it up.
If you are hosting a party then this sour cream and chive dip will go down really well. You can serve it with a range of crunchy snacks and vegetables to keep everyone going.
If you are looking for more dip recipes, why not try our spicy Cottage Cheese Dip, delicious Cream Cheese Fruit Dip, tangy Blue Cheese Dip, Subway copycat Southwest Sauce or our popular Restaurant Style Salsa?
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Ingredients and Substitutions
A full ingredients list, along with US Customary and Metric measurements, can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.
- Sour cream - This is the main ingredient of the dip and gives it a lovely creaminess, with a little tartness too. It's also what makes it so cooling, which is why it goes so well with spicy Mexican dishes. Choose full fat for the best flavour and texture, although you can use reduced fat if you prefer.
- Mayonnaise - Like the sour cream, it is best to use full fat for the best flavour and texture. Don't use a flavoured mayo either. If you wanted to make this sour cream dip recipe a little lighter, then you could use reduced fat.
- Lemon juice - This lightens up the whole dip and adds some freshness and acidity which is much needed.
- Fresh chives - Make sure you are using fresh, as dried herbs just don't work in this chive dip.
- Salt and pepper - Generously season. However, if you are just serving salty crisps with this dip, then you don't need much salt at all.
Variations
There are lots of different ways that you can adapt this sour cream and chive dip. Here are a few options:
- Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream. It has a similar tangy flavour and creamy texture that makes it a great substitute for sour cream in dips and dressings.
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese can be used to make a thicker, creamier dip. It has a milder flavour than sour cream, so it's best to add additional herbs and spices to give it a more robust taste.
- Garlic: For some extra flavour, add a teaspoon of garlic granules to this dip.
- Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese can be blended with herbs and spices to make a creamy dip. It has a mild flavour that pairs well with chives and other herbs.
- Salad dressing: If you wanted to make this a salad dressing, then you can thin it out with a little buttermilk to make it more pourable.
How To Make Sour Cream and Chive Dip
- Step 1: Put all of the ingredients into a bowl.
- Step 2: Mix well to combine.
Serving Suggestions
Sour cream and chive dip is so versatile and it can be served with a variety of snacks and sides. Here are a few pairing suggestions to get you started:
Crisps and Chips - Sour cream and chive dip is a classic dip for crisps and chips. Whether you prefer plain potato crisps, tortilla chips, or even vegetable crisps, this dip is a perfect accompaniment. The creamy texture and tangy flavour of the dip complement the salty crunch of the crisps and chips. Why not try our Homemade Garlic Crisps, Melba Toast, Air Fryer Potato Wedges or Baked Tortilla Chips?
Vegetables - Sour cream and chive dip can also be paired with fresh vegetables for a healthier snack option and something a bit lighter at a party. Carrots, celery, cucumber, and bell peppers are all great choices. This dip definitely makes eating more veggies easier.
Baked Potatoes - Sour cream and chive dip is a popular topping for baked potatoes. Simply spoon the dip over our Slow Cooker Baked Potato or Air Fryer Baked Potatoes and enjoy the flavour combination.
Mexican - Because of how tangy and cooling this sour cream and chive dip is, it's such a good way to cool down a spicy Mexican dish. We love it on our Pulled Pork Tacos, Chicken Burrito Bowl or Chicken Quesadillas.
Burgers - This dip can also be used as a topping for burgers. It adds a tangy and creamy flavour to the burger, making it more flavourful and juicy. It pairs well with beef, chicken, and veggie burgers. Why not try it on our Cajun Chicken Burger or Pork and Apple Burger?
Storage
Store: Sour cream and chive dip should be stored in the fridge at all times. This will help to slow down the growth of bacteria and keep the dip fresh for longer. It is important to keep the dip covered when storing it in the fridge. This will help to prevent it from drying out and picking up any unwanted flavours from other foods in the fridge. It will keep in an air tight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Sour cream and chive dip should not be frozen. Freezing can cause the dip to separate and become watery when it thaws.
Dannii's Top Tips
- The quickest and easiest way to cut chives is to use a pair of scissors. Make sure they are cut finely, as you don't want big strands of chives in this.
- Make sure you reserve a few chives for garnishing.
- Don't use a blender to make this, as it isn't really any quicker (more washing up) and it doesn't give you the best texture.
- For a little kick of heat, you could add a splash of your favourite hot sauce to this dip.
Frequently Asked Questions
The origins of the dip can be traced back to the United States in the 1950s, where it was first served as a topping for baked potatoes. It quickly gained popularity and became a staple at parties and gatherings.
Over the years, the recipe has evolved, and many variations of the dip can now be found. Some recipes call for the addition of mayonnaise, while others use cream cheese or yogurt as a base. The herbs and spices used in the dip also vary, with some recipes calling for dill, parsley, or garlic.
Yes, this is actually best made in advance, and kept in the fridge for a couple of hours to allow all the flavours to infuse.
If you have used it in the ways we have listed above, then it also makes a really nice, and easy pasta sauce. Mix it through cooked spaghetti with some spinach.
If you use a vegan alternative to sour cream and mayo then you can follow the recipe the same to make a vegan sour cream and chive dip recipe.
More Dip Recipes
If you've tried this sour cream dip recipe, let us know how you got on in the comments below.
Tag us in your creations on Instagram @hungryhealthyhappy - Use the hashtag #hungryhealthyhappy too.
Recipe
Sour Cream and Chive Dip
Ingredients
- 200 g (0.9 cups) of Sour cream
- 100 g (0.5 cups) of Mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of Lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of Fresh chives - chopped
- Sea salt and ground black pepper - to taste
Instructions
- Put all of the ingredients into a bowl.
- Mix well to combine.
Recipe Tips
- The quickest and easiest way to cut chives is to use a pair of scissors. Make sure they are cut finely, as you don't want big strands of chives in this.
- Make sure you reserve a few chives for garnishing.
- Don't use a blender to make this, as it isn't really any quicker (more washing up) and it doesn't give you the best texture.
- For a little kick of heat, you could add a splash of your favourite hot sauce to this dip.
Nutritional Information
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The nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.
As all appliances vary, cooking times are a guide. Please note that by changing the serving size, the cooking time may also need to be altered.
Amanda Wren-Grimwood says
Had this last night on a jacket potato and it was delicious. Great creamy consistency woth just the right amount of chives too.
Irena says
So easy and tasty, I always make a larger batch to use as a topping on meals or as a spread.
Gus says
I enjoyed so much this. Your recipe was an absolute winner! The creamy texture of the sour cream combined with the subtle yet flavorful chives created a dip that was simply irresistible. It's definitely going to be a staple at my gatherings from now on.
Carrie Robinson says
Such a simple, yet versatile dip! :) I have a feeling I will be making this one on repeat from now on.
Nikki says
This delightful, creamy and tangy dip is perfect for any party, game day or even for a midday snack. Bonus that It's so easy to make.
Toni says
This is seriously ahhmazing!! I will definitely make it again!
Dina and Bruce says
This dip nailed it! We had all the ingredients, and so much better than pre-made! Yum!
Tavo says
Hey there, just wanted to drop by and share my thoughts on your post about the Sour Cream and Chive Dip. I gotta say, this recipe is an absolute winner! The creamy texture of the sour cream perfectly complements the flavorful burst of chives, creating a heavenly combination. It's the kind of dip that instantly elevates any snack or party platter. I especially appreciate how easy it is to whip up, making it a go-to option for impromptu gatherings or lazy evenings at home. Thank you for sharing this delightful creation, it has definitely become a staple in my kitchen. Keep up the fantastic work!
veenaazmanov says
A Dip perfect to plan for my next party. Easy, quick and simple yet delicious and creamy. I have to try this out.
Kate says
This fresh dip is soooo much better than store bought! Love it.
Ava M says
The sour cream dip is a tangy delight! It adds the perfect creamy zing to my chips and veggies. Definitely a party favorite!