This easy sour cream dip is the ultimate game-changer for your next snack board or party platter. It’s thick, zesty, and so much better than anything you’ll find in the grocery store aisle.
We need to talk about the “dip shelf” at the store. You know, the one packed with plastic tubs that all taste… fine, but a little flat. Let me let you in on a secret: the best dip you’ve ever had is probably already hiding in your fridge.
My homemade sour cream dip takes snacking up a notch and just happens to be my kid's favorite with chips, roasted potatoes, or spooned over baked salmon. I’ve never been one for store-bought dips; I’m a total DIY dip enthusiast, whether I'm whipping up hummus, tzatziki, or a creamy tahini blend. But this recipe is a total classic.
Imagine the cool, tangy velvet of sour cream meeting the rich, silky hug of mayonnaise. Then, we wake everything up with the sharp, oniony snap of fresh green chives, a punch of Dijon, and a tiny whisper of cayenne warmth. It’s bright, and it’s about to make your celery and carrots feel like royalty.
Table of Contents
Why this sour cream dip is so good?
If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, a picnic, or a last-minute party, this is it.
This lightning-fast, 2-minute Sour Cream Mayonnaise Dip requires zero cooking and uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have on hand.
It’s far more economical than buying multiple tubs from the store, and the recipe scales effortlessly, so you can easily double or triple it for a large crowd.
Best of all, it’s completely preservative-free, allowing the clean flavors to really shine, especially after a few hours in the fridge, when they fully bloom and make store-bought versions feel forgettable.
*For more delicious dips and more, try these recipes:
Ingredients you'll need
To create this sour cream with chives dip, you will need a few basic staples:
- Sour Cream: A cool, tangy base that keeps everything fresh. My homemade sour cream makes the dip so much tastier.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and rich, smooth texture.
- Dijon Mustard: For a subtle, sophisticated tang.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper add savory depth.
- Cayenne Pepper: Just a pinch for a hint of warmth.
- Fresh Chives: The star of the show for that garden-fresh finish.
How To Make Sour Cream Chives Dip?
- To begin with, add 1 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, a pinch cayenne pepper, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper, in a medium bowl.
2. Whisk well to combine until smooth.
3. Now add 4 tablespoons chives (diced) and a give it a good mix.
4. Cover the bowl with cling wrap and refrigerate for few hours. I prefer over night. Serve chilled with your favorite veggies, chips, crackers and more! Enjoy!
Expert Tips & Variations
- For the creamiest results strain the liquid from the sour cream before mixing with the rest of your ingredients to ensure a thick, scoopable texture.
- Garlic lovers, while powder works great for a smooth finish, you can use one small clove of finely minced fresh garlic if you prefer a sharper bite.
- Patience is key with this dip, always chill the dip for at least two hours. This "resting time" allows the dried spices to rehydrate and the chive flavor to infuse the cream.
- Check your spices before making this recipe. Spices lose their potency over time. Check the expiry dates on your onion and garlic powder to ensure the best flavor.
- Use a very sharp knife to dice your chives. A dull blade will bruise the herb rather than slicing it, which can make the chives turn bitter.
- Want a Tex-Mex vibe? Switch up the seasoning! Add a teaspoon of taco seasoning.
- To make a less heavy version of this recipe you can swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a high-protein alternative.
- If you don’t have chives other herbs variations like fresh dill, parsley, or finely chopped green onions make fantastic substitutes.
Sour Cream Dip FAQs
Yes! Simply use a plant-based sour cream and a vegan mayonnaise alternative. Most grocery stores now carry excellent dairy-free options that work perfectly in this recipe.
No, I don’t recommend freezing it. The emulsion of the sour cream and mayo will break upon thawing, resulting in a grainy, watery texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
You can, but the flavor won't be as vibrant. If using dried, reduce the amount to 1.5 tablespoons as dried herbs are more concentrated, and be sure to let it sit in the fridge longer to soften the herbs.
Yes, as long as your mayonnaise and Dijon mustard are certified gluten-free (which most are), this recipe is naturally gluten-free and safe for Celiac guests.
Serving Ideas
This versatile sour cream dipping sauce goes with almost anything on your table, making it a true all-purpose favorite.
It’s perfect for adding crunch when served with potato chips, nachos, crackers, pita bread, lavash, or sweet potato fries, and it shines just as much alongside fresh, healthy options like celery, carrots, roasted asparagus, or bell peppers.
Beyond dipping, it steals the show as a topping, especially when dolloped over air fryer salmon, meatballs, or chicken.
It’s also a natural match for potatoes of all kinds, from roasted and Mexican-style potatoes to Instant Pot sweet potatoes, and for a final flourish, a spoonful stirred into hot soups or tucked inside spicy tacos adds a cool, creamy finish.
Storing the leftovers
If you have any left over, this sour cream with chives dip stays fresh for up to 5 days. Store it in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator. If any liquid separates after a few days, just give it a quick stir before serving.
More delicious dip recipes for you
If you made and loved this Easy Dip, please be sure to rate and review it below! I always love hearing from my readers and take your suggestions into account.
If you are looking for more delicious and easy recipes delivered straight to your inbox, you can sign up for my email newsletter. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Instagram or Facebook to see more of my kitchen creations.
Easy Sour Cream Dip Recipe (with Chives)
Ingredients
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- a pinch cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 4 tablespoons chives (plus for garnish - diced)
Instructions
- To begin with, add 1 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, a pinch cayenne pepper, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper, in a medium bowl.
- Whisk well to combine until smooth.
- Now add 4 tablespoons chives (diced) and a give it a good mix.
- Cover the bowl with cling wrap and refrigerate for few hours. I prefer over night.
- Serve chilled with your favorite veggies, chips, crackers and more! Enjoy!
Seema says
I made this sour cream dip at home, and it was delicious. The steps were as easy as the making steps of corn dip with cream cheese. Thanks for the informative post!