Yield: About 2½ cups (10 servings)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Chill Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• ½ cup finely shredded carrot
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add Creamy Ingredients

Mix in:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice

Beat until creamy.

3. Add the Seasonings

Stir in:

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

4. Fold in the Mix-ins

Add:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded carrot
• Green onions
• Chopped parsley

Mix until evenly combined.

5. Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Serve chilled or slightly softened.

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Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Serving size: About ¼ cup

Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on the brands used.

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Serving Ideas

Enjoy this cheese spread with:

• Toast or sandwich bread
• Crackers
• Bagels
• Pretzels
• Celery sticks
• Carrot sticks
• Cucumber slices
• Bell pepper strips
• Baked potatoes
• Burgers
• Wraps and sandwiches

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Variations

Spicy

Add:

• 1 finely diced jalapeño
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• A few dashes of hot sauce

Bacon Cheddar

Mix in:

• 4 slices cooked, crumbled bacon

Herb & Garlic

Add:

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Extra garlic
• Fresh dill or chives

Lighter Version

Replace:

• Mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt
• Full-fat cream cheese with reduced-fat cream cheese
• Sour cream with nonfat Greek yogurt

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Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezer: Not recommended, as the texture may become grainy after thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts and blends more smoothly.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. In fact, it’s often better after chilling for several hours or overnight.

Is this served hot or cold?

It is usually served chilled or at cool room temperature.

Can I use another cheese?

Absolutely. Try:

• Monterey Jack
• Colby
• Pepper Jack
• Gouda
• Swiss
• Smoked cheddar

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes. It adds protein and creates a lighter spread.

Can I make it without mayonnaise?

Yes. Substitute extra sour cream or Greek yogurt, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the spread itself is gluten-free. Just pair it with gluten-free bread or crackers if needed.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can add crunch, but they are optional. If you add nuts, be mindful of guests with nut allergies and note that the nutrition values will change.