Easy Sour Cream Dip Recipe

This Easy Sour Cream Dip recipe is so great because it is very easy to make, and most importantly, it tastes delicious. Whether it is for game day potato chips or you have a bag of veggies that need a dip, this recipe should be the next one you make!

🍟 What makes this recipe special?

First, it is special because it tastes great. Second, it is such an easy recipe to make. Finally, while it is best served with some resting time in the fridge, it can be made on very short notice and deliver a creamy punch of flavor. 

This recipe is a perfect side for recipes like this Beer Battered Onion Rings recipe, these Sweet and Spicy Dry Rub Wings, or for these Grilled Jo Jos. No matter what you make, make sure to treat yourself!

🧄 Ingredients

Sour Cream is the star here, but there are a few other ingredients. Here is what you will need.

• Buttermilk
• Sour cream
• Green onion
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt & Pepper
• Paprika
• Apple cider or white vinegar
• Cayenne pepper

See the recipe card for quantities.

🍲 Instructions

To whip up this delightful sour cream dip, start by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need buttermilk, sour cream, a bit of green onion, and a collection of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick. Don’t forget the vinegar—either white or apple cider will do the trick!

Next, find a container that’s just the right size for mixing. Toss in all the ingredients you’ve rounded up. Then, using a whisk or whatever you like to mix with, blend everything together until it’s smooth and all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the buttermilk and sour cream.

Once everything is mixed well, it’s time for a little patience. Cover your container and tuck it into the refrigerator. 

Give it at least 2 hours to chill; this waiting game lets the flavors really get to know each other, marrying into a dip that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with taste. When it’s time to serve, you’ll have a bowl of dip that’s sure to be the hit of any snack table!

🤷 Substitutions and variations

If you find yourself missing an ingredient for this sour cream dip, there are several simple substitutions you can make. For buttermilk, a mixture of milk with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar can be an effective replacement. Heck, even just some milk would work fine. 

If you’re out of sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great alternative due to its similar texture and tanginess. In place of green onions, chives or a small amount of finely chopped red onion can be used for a comparable flavor. 

For those sensitive to spice, the cayenne pepper can be adjusted to taste or substituted with chili powder for a different flavor profile. Any light vinegar, such as white wine vinegar, can replace white or apple cider vinegar, each adding its own unique taste to the dip. 

If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley or even adding some shredded cheese can offer new dimensions to the dip’s flavor. 

These adjustments not only accommodate for missing ingredients but also allow you to customize the dip to your personal taste preferences. This is a very customizable recipe. 

📦 Storage

After you’ve mixed your dip and allowed it to chill, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dip lasts up to 5 days, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings or a week of snacking.

Always use a clean spoon when serving the dip to ensure the best quality to prevent contamination. If you notice any odd smells, discoloration, or water separation, it’s best to discard the dip as these are signs of spoilage.

Although this sour cream dip is best enjoyed chilled straight from the refrigerator, it’s not suitable for freezing. Freezing can alter the texture and consistency of dairy-based dips, leading to a less than desirable texture upon thawing. So, enjoy it fresh and keep an eye on the fridge to savor it at its best.

🎓 History tidbit

The history of sour cream is deeply rooted in the dairy farming traditions. Before the advent of modern refrigeration, people discovered that fermenting cream would not only preserve it but also enhance its flavor. 

This naturally fermented product became an integral part of the diet, used in a wide range of dishes from soups and sauces to desserts and baked goods.

In the early 20th century, with the rise of industrial dairy production, sour cream became widely available in the United States and other parts of the world. Its popularity grew, and it started to feature prominently in American cuisine, particularly in baked goods, dips, and as a topping for baked potatoes and Mexican food. 

The introduction of commercial production techniques allowed for the standardization of sour cream’s consistency and sourness, making it a versatile ingredient beloved by cooks and chefs alike.

❓ FAQ

📝 Tips and tricks

• Perfect for vegetables, chips, french fries, or onion rings
• Can serve immediately, but is best served after some resting in the fridge

🛠 Products used in this recipe

• Whisk
• Glass Bowl

😋 Did you make this recipe?

That is awesome, and thank you so much for giving this Easy Sour Cream Dip recipe a try. If you could leave a rating in the comment area below, it would be greatly appreciated. This lets me know how I am doing and also helps others decide if they want to make this recipe. Most of all, thanks for visiting Ramshackle Pantry.