Chive Cheese Spread
A creamy chive cheese spread with a rich, savory flavor, perfect for serving over cabbage or as a dip, appealing to cheese and herb lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan.
- Stir in flour and salt and cook, stirring constantly, until bubbly.
- Stir in milk and continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and boils, about 1 minute.
- Add the chive cream cheese.
- Stir until melted and smooth.
- Serve hot over cabbage.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're out of chive cream cheese, regular cream cheese with fresh chives mixed in can serve as a substitute. Be sure to whisk constantly while cooking to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth sauce. This spread can also be used as a dip for fresh vegetables or crackers, making it versatile for various gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This chive cheese spread is excellent served hot over steamed cabbage, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or baked potatoes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside protein like grilled chicken or fish. It can also complement dishes like Super Scalloped Corn for a satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chive cheese spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a creamy consistency. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chive Cheese Spread contains roughly 840 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1746mg per serving (76% 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 chive cheese spread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spread in advance. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring until smooth. This makes it convenient for hosting or meal prepping.
What can I use this spread on besides cabbage?
This spread is versatile! Besides cabbage, it works wonderfully as a topping for baked potatoes, a dip for fresh vegetables, or even as a filling for sandwiches. You might also enjoy it with crackers or as a part of a cheese platter.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Absolutely! You can reduce the butter and use low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative to cut down on calories. Additionally, opting for a reduced-fat cream cheese can help lighten the dish while still maintaining flavor. This makes it a great option for those watching their intake.
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).