Creamy, nutty, and irresistibly cheesy, this Jarlsberg Cheese Dip is the kind of recipe that lives in memory—and disappears in minutes. Originally discovered in the well-worn pages of a beloved church cookbook, this dish has earned its place as a retro-chic crowd favorite. Whether you’re heading to a potluck, hosting game day, or setting the holiday table, this dip is guaranteed to be the first bowl scraped clean.
The star of this recipe is Jarlsberg cheese—mild, nutty, and melty—with a flavor that sets it apart from ordinary cheddar or mozzarella. Blended into a velvety, herb-scented base with a whisper of onion and a hint of lemon for brightness, this dip delivers bold flavor with barely any effort.
Why You’ll Love This Jarlsberg Dip
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✅ 5-minute prep – Just mix and bake!
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✅ Elegant yet easy – Fancy flavor with foolproof technique.
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✅ Make-ahead friendly – Prep it early, pop it in the oven when guests arrive.
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✅ A guaranteed hit – Always the first appetizer gone!
Jarlsberg Cheese Dip Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
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2 cups shredded Jarlsberg cheese
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1 cup mayonnaise
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½ cup sour cream
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1 small onion, finely grated or minced
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1 teaspoon lemon juice (fresh preferred)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon dried dill (or substitute fresh)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: chopped chives or green onions for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded Jarlsberg, mayonnaise, sour cream, onion, lemon juice, and seasonings. Mix until fully blended.
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Transfer the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish or small cast iron skillet. Spread evenly.
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Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.
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Garnish with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
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Serve hot with toasted baguette slices, crackers, pretzels, or fresh-cut veggies.
Tips & Variations
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Make Ahead: Mix the dip a day in advance and store in the fridge. Bake just before serving!
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Add Heat: Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
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Lighter Option: Use light sour cream and mayo for a slightly healthier take.
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Texture Twist: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or toasted almonds for a little crunch.
Serving Suggestions
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Warm with crusty French bread or sourdough
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As a dip for carrot sticks, cucumber rounds, or bell pepper strips
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Spread on crackers or mini toasts
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As a filling for stuffed mushrooms or baked into puff pastry cups
Storage Notes
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm and melty again.