Jarlsberg Cheese Dip

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Creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of indulgent, this Jarlsberg Cheese Dip is a must-have for your next gathering or snack board. Made with shredded Jarlsberg cheese, mayonnaise, red onions, and fresh herbs, it delivers a rich, nutty flavor with a savory punch that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting game night or need a quick and easy appetizer, this cheesy dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

This dip is incredibly versatile—serve it chilled for a refreshing contrast to crunchy crackers or warm it up for a gooey, melted experience. It pairs beautifully with everything from fresh veggies to crostini, making it one of those appetizer staples that deserve a permanent spot in your entertaining lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Jarlsberg Cheese Dip

This dip isn’t just easy to make—it’s also loaded with flavor. Jarlsberg cheese brings a buttery nuttiness that sets it apart from other cheeses, while the addition of tangy mayonnaise and zesty red onions adds depth. It takes just minutes to prepare, making it perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or last-minute snacks. Plus, it can be made ahead, stored in the fridge, and still taste just as fresh and flavorful later.

Can I Use a Different Cheese Instead of Jarlsberg?

While the star of the show is clearly Jarlsberg, you can substitute it if needed. Swiss cheese or even Gruyère are good alternatives thanks to their similarly nutty flavor profiles. However, keep in mind that switching the cheese might slightly change the texture and sharpness of the final dip.

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Ingredients for the Jarlsberg Cheese Dip

Each ingredient in this dip plays a key role in achieving that creamy, craveable texture and bold flavor:

• Jarlsberg Cheese – The signature ingredient. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and nutty, giving the dip its unique flavor.
• Mayonnaise – Provides the creamy base that ties everything together. Use a good-quality mayo for the best taste.
• Red Onion – Adds a hint of sharpness and crunch. Finely chopped for even distribution.
• Fresh Chives – A pop of green and a mild onion flavor that freshens up each bite.
• Garlic Powder (optional) – Adds subtle depth if you want an extra layer of flavor.

How To Make the Jarlsberg Cheese Dip

Step 1: Shred the Cheese

Use a box grater or food processor to shred the Jarlsberg cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts and blends better than pre-packaged.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese, mayonnaise, finely diced red onion, and chives. Stir until well combined. If using garlic powder, add it now.

Step 3: Chill (Optional)

For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the ingredients meld. But if you’re in a rush, you can serve it right away.

Step 4: Serve

Spoon into a serving bowl and garnish with extra chives. Serve with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggie sticks.

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How to Serve and Store This Dip

This Jarlsberg Cheese Dip serves about 6-8 people as an appetizer. It’s perfect for parties, picnics, or cozy nights in.

To store leftovers, transfer the dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Stir before serving again. You can also make it a day ahead—it tastes even better after the flavors have mingled overnight.

If you’d like to serve it warm, pop it in an oven-safe dish and heat at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until bubbly.

What to Serve With Jarlsberg Cheese Dip?

Crackers

Buttery, crisp crackers pair wonderfully with the creamy texture and nutty flavor of the dip.

Crostini

Lightly toasted slices of baguette offer a sturdy, flavorful base for scooping.

Fresh Vegetables

Try sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or celery for a refreshing and crunchy contrast.

Pretzel Chips

The salty crunch of pretzels adds a fun twist to every bite.

Pita Chips

A thicker option that complements the richness of the dip without getting soggy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I freeze Jarlsberg Cheese Dip?
It’s not recommended. The mayonnaise can separate and affect the texture after thawing.

Is this dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is naturally gluten-free, but make sure to serve it with gluten-free dippers like veggies or certified gluten-free crackers.

Can I use light mayonnaise?
Yes, light mayo can be used if you prefer a lower-calorie version. The texture might be slightly less creamy, but the flavor will still shine.

What if I don’t have chives?
You can substitute with finely chopped green onions or parsley. For more herb substitution tips, check out our herb swap guide.

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