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If you’re ever in need of a festive and elegant dish to make for a party, this Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip will save the day. Bonus – it’s super easy and quick to make!

We’ve all been there – it’s a special occasion or a fancy party, where you need an appetizer or “small plate/tapas” dish that’s out-of-the-ordinary and will impress. But, you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, or try something complicated and difficult that could fail. This Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip or spread is your answer. And, it’s easy to transport if you aren’t the hostess.

This beats any store-bought smoked salmon spread or dip hands-down! You won’t believe how luscious it is – soft and creamy, with a real smoked salmon flavor (and you know how everyone loves the real thing!), and a subtle tang from the cream cheese and sour cream, and the freshness of dill. This is a dip to impress!

Why You’ll Love Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip

Bursting with Real Smoked Salmon Flavor: Unlike store-bought dips that can taste artificial or mild, this homemade dip is packed with authentic smoked salmon taste. The real smoked salmon gives it an irresistibly fresh and savory flavor.
Quick and Easy to Make: With only a handful of ingredients and a food processor, this dip comes together in just 5 minutes. It’s a fantastic option when you need an appetizer in a pinch but still want something that feels special.
Creamy and Luxurious Texture: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo creates a rich, creamy base that’s smooth yet light. Each bite is indulgent and creamy, making it hard to resist!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it as a party appetizer, a brunch side, or a savory snack, this dip fits any occasion. It’s versatile enough to serve with a variety of dippers like crackers, veggies, and bagels.
A Healthier, Fresh Alternative: With no preservatives or artificial flavors, this dip offers a fresh, wholesome alternative to store-bought versions. Made with high-quality smoked salmon, it’s a treat you can feel good about sharing.

Yes, this Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip is every bit a fancy pants dip, Yes, it does cost a little more than buying that packaged one in the store, but it really is worth it! It tastes SOOOO MUCH BETTER! And, it is quick and easy to put together. It’s flavor money can’t buy! If you’ve ever tried store- bought Smoked Salmon Dip, you know that it tastes almost sour and only mildly of smoked salmon. And let’s be honest, it can’t be real because real smoked salmon has to be consumed with 3 – 5 days after opening the packet. So, go homemade, with the real thing, no artificial flavor, no preservatives – real fresh smoked salmon. And as a result, it truly tastes like smoked salmon. Really truly!

Ingredients for Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip

Smoked Salmon – Provides the star flavor of the dip with its rich, smoky, and savory taste.
Cream Cheese – Adds a creamy, thick texture that balances the smoked salmon and makes the dip smooth and spreadable.
Sour Cream – Lightens the cream cheese mixture, adding a slight tang that complements the salmon.
Mayonnaise – Adds extra richness and a touch of creaminess to enhance the dip’s flavor profile.
Fresh Dill – Offers a fresh, herbal note that pairs beautifully with smoked salmon and adds a pop of color.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Smoked salmon is not the cheapest thing in the world, especially if you get good quality. Because you use a small amount, and the taste really comes through, buy the best quality you can. Using it in a dip is a good way to make less go further because when it’s blitzed up in the food processor, it makes the flavor bloom! It’s much more intense than stirring chopped salmon into the dip.

I like to use a combination of cream cheese, sour cream (to lighten up the mixture a bit, I find using only cream cheese is too dense) and mayonnaise (for a bit of extra richness and flavor).

Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip

Food Processor – Essential for blending the ingredients into a smooth, creamy dip with just the right texture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – Helpful for accurately measuring the ingredients to ensure perfect flavor balance in every batch.
Spatula – Useful for scraping down the sides of the food processor and transferring the dip to your serving bowl.

You can serve it with crackers and cocktails, set it out on a brunch buffet with bagels or serve it with cucumber slices for a low-carb treat — either way, it’s a hit. Betcha you’ll get asked for the recipe, and no one will believe how easy it is to make!

How To Make Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip

Gather all your ingredients and have them ready on the countertop.
Place the smoked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh dill into the food processor.
Pulse the mixture until it reaches your preferred consistency—smooth and creamy or with a bit of texture.
Use a spatula to scoop the dip into a serving bowl, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh dill if desired.
Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a variety of crackers for a classic and crowd-pleasing option.
Add cucumber slices or celery sticks for a refreshing, low-carb dipper.
Include it on a brunch spread alongside bagels, croissants, or toast for a bagel-inspired treat.
Spoon it into hollowed-out cherry tomatoes or mini peppers for an elegant presentation.
Pair with a platter of smoked salmon, capers, and red onions for a more indulgent appetizer spread.

Tips for Success

Use High-Quality Smoked Salmon: Since smoked salmon is the star ingredient, using a high-quality brand will enhance the flavor. Opt for cold-smoked salmon for a more delicate texture that blends smoothly into the dip.
Soften the Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more easily, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture. If the cream cheese is too firm, it may create lumps in the dip, so let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before starting.
Balance the Consistency: If you prefer a lighter dip, adjust by adding a little more sour cream or mayonnaise. For a denser texture, stick to the measurements or slightly reduce the sour cream.
Pulse, Don’t Overprocess: For a creamy yet slightly textured dip, pulse the ingredients in the food processor instead of blending them at full speed. Overprocessing can make the dip too thin and smooth, so check frequently for your desired texture.
Chill for Enhanced Flavor: While the dip is delicious right away, chilling it for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together. This step can deepen the smoked salmon and dill notes, making it even tastier.

Variations and Substitutions

Add a Zesty Twist: For a hint of citrus, add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The acidity will brighten the dip and complement the richness of the salmon and cream cheese.
Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise to create a version suitable for those avoiding dairy. Coconut or almond-based cream cheese alternatives work well and keep the dip creamy and delicious.
Boost the Herbs: If you love herbs, try adding fresh chives or parsley alongside the dill. These herbs add a mild onion flavor and a fresh, green finish that pairs well with smoked salmon.
Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, mix in a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or finely diced jalapeño. This spicy variation adds a lively kick to the smooth, creamy dip.
Lower the Fat Content: If you prefer a lighter dip, use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. Keep in mind that this may slightly change the dip’s texture, but it will still have great flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Transfer any leftover dip into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Smoked salmon is perishable, so it’s best to consume the dip within this time frame for optimal freshness and flavor.
Reheating: This dip is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. If it’s been in the fridge, let it sit out for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to bloom.
Freezing: While possible, freezing is not recommended as the texture may change once thawed. The dip can become watery and lose its creamy consistency due to the dairy ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I leave the dip out at room temperature?

It’s best to leave this dip out for no longer than two hours, as it contains perishable ingredients like cream cheese and smoked salmon. If you’re serving it at a gathering, consider setting it on a chilled platter or returning it to the fridge between servings to keep it fresh.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, this dip can be made a day in advance! In fact, chilling it allows the flavors to meld and can enhance the taste. Simply prepare it, store it in an airtight container, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this dip besides crackers?

This dip pairs beautifully with various dippers. Try cucumber slices, carrot sticks, celery, toasted bagel slices, or even thinly sliced radishes. It also complements a brunch spread well when served with bagels or croissants.

Can I use hot-smoked salmon instead of cold-smoked?

Yes, but keep in mind that hot-smoked salmon has a firmer texture and more intense, “cooked” flavor. Cold-smoked salmon will give the dip a smoother texture and subtler taste, which is ideal for blending. If you use hot-smoked, consider breaking it into smaller flakes for easier blending.

Is there a way to make this dip lower in calories?

For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. You could also add Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for an extra protein boost. While these substitutions reduce the richness slightly, they keep the dip flavorful and creamy.

If you like the smoked salmon cream cheese dip, you will also love these easy recipes:

Smoked Salmon Avocado Rolls – many things taste amazing with avocado, and smoked salmon is no exception!

Caprese Salad Skewers – cherry tomatoes, basil leaves and fresh mozzarella balls are threaded on toothpicks – how cute is that? This is going to be your next favorite appetizer!

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus – talk about elegant! Awesome roasted asparagus wrapped in crispy brown bacon – mmm!

Honey Baked Brie – baked brie is always a hit! This recipe is so easy and people devour it! Always a hit at a holiday table!

Baked Pita Chips – serve these homemade pita chips with the smoked salmon cream cheese dip – perfect combo!

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