Jarlsberg Cheese Dip: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer! 🧀✨

 Creamy, nutty, and irresistibly cheesy, this Jarlsberg Cheese Dip is a retro-chic party staple that disappears faster than you can make it! Discovered in a church cookbook years ago, this recipe has stood the test of time—doubled batches are a must because it’s always the first dish emptied at any gathering.

Perfect for potlucks, game day, or holiday parties, this dip highlights Jarlsberg’s mild, nutty flavor in a velvety, herb-kissed base with a hint of lemon and onion for brightness. Serve it warm with crusty bread, crackers, or veggies, and watch it steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Jarlsberg Cheese Dip

✅ 5-minute prep – Just mix and bake!

✅ Elegant yet easy – Feels fancy, but foolproof.

✅ Nutty, creamy, tangy – Jarlsberg’s unique flavor shines.

✅ Make-ahead friendly – Assemble ahead, bake before serving.

Jarlsberg Cheese Dip Recipe

2 cups (8 oz) shredded Jarlsberg cheese (see note for subs)

1 cup mayonnaise (real mayo, not Miracle Whip)

1 cup sour cream

¼ cup grated onion (or 1 tbsp onion powder)

1 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp black pepper

¼ tsp cayenne (optional, for a kick)

For serving:

Baguette slices, crackers, or veggie sticks

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix Everything

In a bowl, combine Jarlsberg, mayo, sour cream, onion, lemon juice, parsley, garlic powder, pepper, and cayenne.

2. Bake Until Bubbly

Transfer to a greased 1-quart baking dish (or pie plate).

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 mins, until golden and bubbly.

3. Broil for Color (Optional)

Broil 1–2 mins for a toasted top.

4. Serve Warm!

Garnish with extra parsley and dive in with bread, crackers, or veggies.

Pro Tips

🧀 No Jarlsberg? Swap Swiss or Gruyère (adjust salt to taste).

🔥 Spicy upgrade? Add 1 diced jalapeño or ½ tsp smoked paprika.

⏳ Make ahead? Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

🍞 Crockpot hack – Mix all ingredients, heat on LOW 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

🍷 Wine Pairing – Serve with Chardonnay or sparkling wine.

🎄 Holiday Twist – Top with crispy bacon or toasted almonds.

🌱 Lighter Option – Swap mayo for Greek yogurt (less tangy but still creamy).

Final Thoughts

This Jarlsberg Cheese Dip is a nostalgic, addictive crowd-favorite—simple enough for weeknights but special enough for celebrations. Will you try it for your next party? Let us know in the comments!