Appetizer Cheese Mousse
Creamy blue cheese mousse with rich sour cream and cottage cheese, enhanced by Italian dressing and garnished with parsley and carrot curls—perfect for elegant appetizers or parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the unflavored gelatin in cold water.
- Place the gelatin over boiling water and stir until dissolved.
- Mix the dissolved gelatin into the sour cream.
- Add Italian dressing mix, crumbled Blue cheese, and cottage cheese; beat until well blended.
- Pour the mixture into a 3 1/2-cup ring mold or small loaf pan.
- Chill until the mousse is firm.
- Unmold the mousse and garnish with parsley and carrot curls.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your cheese mousse sets perfectly, make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved before mixing it with the sour cream. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the Blue cheese with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, which will also give it a thicker consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese mousse is a delightful appetizer that pairs beautifully with crackers or fresh vegetable sticks. For a more complete spread, you can serve it alongside a selection of cured meats and olives. A light salad or a simple soup like (Instant) Creamy Potato Soup can complement the richness of this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If you’d like to serve it again, simply unmold and garnish fresh for a delightful presentation.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Appetizer Cheese Mousse contains roughly 157 calories, with 16g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 583mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese mousse ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheese mousse is perfect for making a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it well in the refrigerator after it sets to maintain its freshness and flavor. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute for sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, a blend of cream cheese and a splash of milk can also work well to achieve the desired consistency.
How long does it take for the mousse to set?
Typically, the mousse takes about 4-6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before your event so it’s fully chilled and ready to serve. This ensures a firm and stable mousse for easy slicing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).