If you're looking for a delicious dip that's packed with protein and perfect for any occasion, this Ranch Cottage Cheese Dip is a must-try! It's a healthy twist on regular ranch dip, combining creamy cottage cheese with simple ingredients to create a flavorful dip. Whether you're serving it as an easy appetizer for game day or as an after-school snack with fresh veggies, this recipe is an easy win.
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I'm in a constant battle to get more protein into my kids, especially when snack time rolls around. Left to their own devices, they'll go straight for a box of whatever salty, crunchy thing they can get their hands on. Honestly, I can't blame them-they get their snack genes from me. But here's the thing: they love dips, and they love cottage cheese. So, when I noticed that cottage cheese has been having a bit of a moment lately, I figured it was worth experimenting.
Blending cottage cheese until it's smooth turns it into an incredibly versatile base for all kinds of things. It's a great stand-in for sour cream or cream cheese when you're looking for something lighter with a protein boost. Does it taste exactly like sour cream or cream cheese? Nope. But when you add the right mix of flavors, it transforms into a creamy, delicious snack that's packed with protein and perfect for dipping. Trust me, it's a game-changer!
If you need inspiration for a few more snacks or light meal options, check these out. Butternut Squash Feta Salad, Air Fryer Mediterranean Salmon Bowls, Jalapeno Bean Dip, or Easy Classic Hummus.
Why You'll Love This Easy Cottage Cheese Dip Recipe
- High in protein: With cottage cheese as the base, this dip provides protein that will keep you feeling full longer.
- Creamy texture without cream cheese: This whipped cottage cheese dip has all the flavors of classic ranch dressing with a thick texture that's irresistibly smooth.
- Simple ingredients: You only need a handful of ingredients to create your own ranch seasoning and mimic the flavor of the packaged stuff.
Jump to:
Ingredients You'll Need
- Creamy cottage cheese: The star of the show, adding protein and creaminess. Use 4% milk fat. The low-fat varieties are not as creamy. Here is a great article with nutrition facts and the health benefits of cottage cheese.
- Fresh dill: For a burst of herby freshness and key for that "ranch" flavor.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Essential spices for a flavorful dip.
- Lemon juice: Brightens up the dip with a hint of tanginess that would otherwise be missing because there is no sour cream in this recipe.
- Fresh herbs: Dill is key, but you also need parsley or chives.
- Milk: Optional but recommended, to adjust the consistency.
See the recipe card below for quantities.
How to Make Ranch Cottage Cheese Dip
- Step 1: Blend until creamy: Place the cottage cheese in a food processor or blender and blend until creamy & smooth.
- Step 2: Add remaining ingredients: Add all the remaining ingredients; dill, chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt & black pepper and blend until smooth.
- Step 3: Taste and adjust: Put the dip in a bowl, adjust seasoning as needed, and add milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Step 4: Chill and serve: Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Hint: Use a high-quality cottage cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese provides the creamiest and most flavorful base.
Substitutions & Variations
- Herbs: Swap fresh out fresh herbs for a unique flavor. Try cilantro, basil, or tarragon.
- Spices: Add smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative to make this dip vegan-friendly.
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness by adding more or less milk.
Serving Suggestions
This cottage cheese ranch dip recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of dippers:
- Fresh vegetables: Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and celery are classic choices.
- Potato chips, crackers, or tortilla chips: For a crunchy contrast.
- Pita bread: Cut into wedges for dipping.
Equipment
- High-powered food processor or blender: Essential for blending the cottage cheese into a smooth and creamy texture. A high-powered model will ensure the dip has the perfect consistency. The two I've linked here are investment appliances. Certainly, less expensive versions are wonderful as well. But I'll never buy another food processor or blender in my lifetime and they might even last long enough to be in my kids' kitchens one day.
- Airtight container: For storing the dip and keeping it fresh.
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Storaging Cottage Cheese Ranch Dip
Keep your cottage cheese veggie dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a quick stir before serving.
Top Tip - CHILL BEFORE SERVING
Letting the dip rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to marry and develop!
FAQ
Yes! Instructions are listed on the recipe card.
While sour cream makes a great dip base, using creamy cottage cheese provides a high-protein alternative with a thick texture and a similar creamy dip experience.
Absolutely! This is a great option to prepare ahead for snacks or parties. Make up to 3 days ahead. Stir well before serving.
Depending on the type of cottage cheese used, this high-protein dip typically provides around 10-12 grams of protein per 2 servings.
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Related
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Recipe
Ranch Cottage Cheese Dip - Easy High Protein Dip
Equipment
- High-powered food processor or blender: Essential for blending the cottage cheese into a smooth and creamy texture. A high-powered model will ensure the dip has the perfect consistency.
- Airtight container: For storing the dip and keeping it fresh.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces 4% whole milk cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (2 teaspoons dried dill)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped use 1 tablespoon for a less pronounced onion flavor (1 to 2 teaspoons dried chives)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (alternatively, you can use 2 tablespoons of either lemon juice or apple cider vinegar and omit the other.)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (alternatively, you can use 2 tablespoons of either lemon juice or apple cider vinegar and omit the other.)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons milk to thin dip to desired consistency
Instructions
- Step 1: Blend until creamy: Place the cottage cheese in a food processor or blender and blend until creamy & smooth.
- Step 2: Add remaining ingredients: Add all the remaining ingredients; dill, chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt & black pepper and blend until smooth.
- Step 3: Taste and adjust: Put the dip in a bowl, adjust seasoning as needed, and add milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Step 4: Chill and serve: Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This cottage cheese ranch dip recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of dippers:- Fresh vegetables: Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and celery are classic choices.
- Potato chips, crackers, or tortilla chips: For a crunchy contrast.
- Pita bread: Cut into wedges for dipping.
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