First, let me just say — thank you for being here! Every time you stop by to read a recipe, you’re not just finding something new to make… you’re joining me in the joy of bringing people together around food. And this particular recipe? It’s one I can’t believe I waited so long to share.
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof. This Jarlsberg Cheese Dip isn’t just good — it’s addictive. That nutty, slightly sweet cheese flavor? The hint of tang from fresh lemon juice? The way it works with crackers, pretzels, sliced veggies, or even spooned straight onto warm bread? Anything but boring!!
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Why This Jarlsberg Cheese Dip Is Special
Jarlsberg cheese, for those who haven’t met it yet, is Norway’s answer to Swiss — but softer, creamier, and sweeter. It melts beautifully, but here we’re letting it shine in its fresh, shredded form.
Here’s why I think you’ll fall in love with this dip:
- Easy to Make – 5 minutes of prep, a quick chill, and you’re done.
- Elegant Flavor – Nutty cheese meets zesty lemon and a touch of paprika.
- Crowd-Friendly – Serves 6–8 as an appetizer, but easily doubled for parties.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a couple of hours.
What It Tastes Like
Close your eyes and imagine: creamy, nutty cheese with a tangy lift, mellow onion bite, and a whisper of warm paprika. It’s rich but not heavy — the kind of dip that leaves you reaching for “just one more” cracker until you realize you’ve been standing by the bowl far too long.
Benefits of Making This Dip
- Works for every season — summer picnics or cozy winter gatherings.
- Budget-friendly for the flavor payoff.
- No oven or stovetop needed.
- Pairs beautifully with wine, beer, or sparkling water.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups shredded Jarlsberg cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best flavor)
- 2 ½ tablespoons whole milk
- 2 tablespoons diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of paprika
Jarlsberg Cheese Dip
Equipment
- medium mixing bowl
- spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- serving bowl or dish
- plastic wrap or airtight container
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded Jarlsberg cheese
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best flavor)
- 2.5 tbsp whole milk
- 2 tbsp diced red onion
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 pinch paprika
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the shredded Jarlsberg cheese, mayonnaise, milk, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Use a spoon or spatula to stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Transfer to your serving dish or container, cover tightly, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with crackers, pretzels, vegetable sticks, or slices of baguette.
Notes
Nutrition
Tools for Preparation
- Medium mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl or dish
- Plastic wrap or airtight container for chilling
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
- No Jarlsberg? Try Emmental, mild Swiss, or even Gruyère for a richer flavor.
- For extra tang – Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
- For spice lovers – A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika.
- For extra creaminess – Replace half the mayo with sour cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Ingredients – In a medium mixing bowl, add the shredded Jarlsberg cheese, mayonnaise, milk, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Mix Well – Use a spoon or spatula to stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Chill – Transfer to your serving dish or container, cover tightly, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve – Enjoy chilled with crackers, pretzels, fresh vegetable sticks, or slices of baguette.
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange a colorful platter of celery sticks, baby carrots, radishes, and cucumber slices alongside the dip.
- Serve warm pita bread wedges for a softer bite.
- Make mini crostini with a dollop of this dip and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Tips for the Perfect Jarlsberg Cheese Dip
- Shred your own cheese — pre-shredded can have anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice — bottled won’t have the same brightness.
- Don’t skip the chill — it’s worth the wait for flavors to blend.
Storage Instructions
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Not freezer-friendly — dairy-based dips can separate after thawing.
General Info
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 1–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.
Q: Can I make it lighter?
You can use light mayo and low-fat milk, but the flavor will be less rich.
Q: Is Jarlsberg cheese vegetarian-friendly?
Some Jarlsberg is made with microbial rennet, but check the label to be sure.
Conclusion
This Jarlsberg Cheese Dip is proof that simple recipes can feel special. It’s the kind of thing you’ll whip up for a last-minute gathering or keep in the fridge for “snacking emergencies.” Elegant enough for a wine night, comforting enough for a family picnic — it’s truly a recipe for all occasions.
If you loved this, you might also enjoy my Ladies Luncheon Dip, Cheesy Yakisoba, or the classic Peach Spoon Cake for dessert.
Join the Fun!
If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it! Tag your photos on Pinterest, or leave a review and let me know your favorite way to serve it.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 265
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 390mg
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