Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Dip Recipe
This dip comes together in just a few minutes with basic pantry ingredients. Its creamy texture and bold garlic‑cheese flavor make it a crowd‑pleaser, whether you’re serving fried chicken, fresh veggies, pita, or fries. You can even make it ahead — letting the flavors meld overnight in the fridge adds extra depth, which makes it a great choice for parties or casual get‑togethers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 teaspoon olive oil
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1 cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon vinegar
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon sugar
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4 teaspoons garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
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1/4 teaspoon basil
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1/4 teaspoon thyme
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A pinch of black pepper
Directions
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
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Stir in the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, red pepper flakes, basil, thyme, and black pepper until fully combined.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
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Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve with hot chicken, vegetables, pita bread, or any dippers you like.
Servings and timing
Serves 4–6. Preparation time: about 10 minutes.
Variations
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For a slightly richer flavor, substitute part of the mayonnaise with sour cream.
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Add a splash of lemon zest for a brighter citrus touch.
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Increase the garlic if you prefer a stronger garlic punch.
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Swap or add other herbs (e.g. oregano, parsley) to vary the flavor profile.
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For a spicier twist, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Since this is a cold dip, there’s no need to reheat — just stir before serving to refresh the texture and flavor.
FAQs
What if I don’t have vinegar — can I skip it?
Yes — you can skip the vinegar or substitute it with a different mild acid (like a little extra lemon juice). The dip may be slightly less tangy, but still tasty.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes — in fact, making it several hours (or even overnight) ahead can improve the flavor as the ingredients meld together.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried basil and thyme?
Absolutely. Substitute fresh herbs at roughly triple the amount of dried (e.g. ¾ teaspoon fresh basil instead of ¼ teaspoon dried) for a fresh‑herb flavor.
What can I serve with this dip?
It pairs well with fried chicken, buffalo wings, fresh vegetables (carrots, celery, bell peppers), pita bread or pita chips, French fries, and even as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
Yes — as long as the Parmesan cheese and mayonnaise you use are vegetarian-friendly, the dip itself contains no meat.
Can I reduce the fat content?
You could lighten it up by replacing part of the mayonnaise with low‑fat yogurt or light sour cream, though this may slightly change the flavor and texture.
My dip tastes too tangy/spicy — how can I balance it?
You can balance tanginess by adding a little extra mayonnaise (or sour cream/yogurt), and reduce spice by decreasing or omitting the red pepper flakes.
How can I make the dip thinner/thicker?
If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of water, milk, or extra lemon juice to thin it. If too thin, add a bit more mayonnaise or some finely grated Parmesan to thicken.
Can I make a larger batch for a party?
Yes — you can easily double or triple the ingredients depending on how many guests you expect.
How long will the dip keep in the fridge?
When stored airtight, the dip should stay good for up to 5 days. Always give it a good stir before serving again.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Dip is simple, quick, and irresistibly flavorful — a go-to for parties, snacks, or everyday dipping. Whether you’re pairing it with fried chicken, fresh veggies, pita, or fries, it adds a creamy, garlicky, cheesy punch that’s hard to resist. Once you try it, you’ll likely be reaching for it again and again.
