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Unleash the indulgent charm of Salmon Cream Cheese Dip, where creamy goodness meets the divine flavors of smoked salmon and wild salmon, fresh herbs, and tangy lemon. Elevate your entertaining with this effortless, yet impressive salmon dip recipe that guarantees to leave a lasting, delicious impression!

“What a creamy, mouthwatering dip! And SO versatile – love it with cucumbers or toasty bread, but my partner really loved it as a sandwich spread. Thank you for sharing!”

– Brandi
Overhead photo of a platter with crostini toasts and a bowl of salmon cream cheese dip.

Update: This recipe was originally published in March 2021. I made updates to the post below to include more information about making the best salmon and cream cheese dip at home.

Table of Contents

About this recipe for salmon dip

If you are a fan of salmon, you are going to fall head over heels in love with this ultra creamy, rich, smoky fish dip!

This thick and savory dip is overflowing with not one, but two types of salmon. It features silky smoked salmon and luscious wild salmon along with smooth cream cheese, tangy Greek yogurt, custardy mayonnaise, zippy lemon and plenty of fresh herbs. Smooth and creamy with generous chunks of real salmon, this dip is insanely addictive and impossible to resist!

But, not only is this smoked salmon dip downright delicious, it’s also incredibly simple to prepare and all of the ingredients are easy to find. Thanks to the trusty food processor, you can have this dip ready in as little as 5 to 10 minutes. And, you can even make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Ready for some bonus points – this dip can also double as a spread! While it’s delicious as a dip with crackers, crostini or fresh vegetables, it’s equally as scrumptious as a smear for bagels and avocado toast or as a spread for sandwiches.

If you’re looking for more seafood dips, be sure to try this crab rangoon dip recipe next.

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Super quick and easy to prepare! This dip can be ready and on the table in as little as 15 minutes!
  • The best texture! This dip is rich and ultra-creamy with generous chunks of real salmon!
  • Insanely delicious taste! Featuring two types of salmon – smoked and wild salmon – there is no shortage of delicious salmon flavor in every bite!
  • Easy way to use leftover salmon! This is a healthy and easy way to use up any leftover salmon you have hanging out in the refrigerator!
  • You can prepare it in advance! Prepare this dip in advance and store it in the refrigerator for easy snacking!
  • Easy to customize! Get creative and toss in your favorite ingredients!
  • Perfect for entertaining! This dip will be a hit at every party – from picnics, potlucks and barbecues to family gatherings and holiday celebrations!
Close-up photo of slices of smoked salmon.

What is salmon and cream cheese dip?

Smoked salmon dip is a rich, creamy and savory dip for spread for crackers, bread, fresh vegetables and sandwiches. It features a whipped Philadelphia cheese base combined with smoked salmon and other flavoring ingredients, such as mustard, fresh lemon juice, and dill.

Overhead photo of cream cheese, smoked salmon, fresh dill, lemon zest, salt and pepper in the bowl of a food processor - before being processed together.

Ingredients for salmon cream cheese dip

All the ingredients for this insanely addictive dip are easy to find! Plus, you can use either leftover salmon, canned salmon or raw salmon for this recipe!

  • Salmon: A combination of smoked salmon and wild salmon give this dip an intense, savory depth of flavor! The smoked salmon provides a delicious smokey flavor, while the wild salmon adds a robust taste! (See below for types of salmon you can use to make dip.)
  • Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add a touch of acidity which helps balance, brighten and enhance the flavors in this dip!
  • Spices: A blend of smoked paprika, kosher salt and ground black pepper all provide flavor.
  • Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill adds a citrus-like taste and subtle sweetness, while fresh chives or green onion add a touch of delicate onion flavor.
  • Cream Cheese: Room temperature cream cheese provides a rich creaminess that just can’t be beat! I recommend whipped cream cheese for the best light and airy texture!
  • Yogurt: 1/3 cup of Greek yogurt helps lighten up the dip and adds a touch of tangy flavor! Swap: You can substitute sour cream or use 2% Greek yogurt if you prefer.
  • Mayonnaise: A scant 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise provide a pleasant richness and custardy texture. For the richest taste, use a good-quality, full-fat mayonnaise. Swap: Try using avocado oil mayonnaise or even low-fat cottage cheese for a healthy mayo substitute.

If cream cheese is on sale at the grocery store, pick up an extra block and put it to good use in these dip recipes: dessert cream cheese dip and spicy cream cheese dip.

Recipe variations

This recipe is extremely flexible! Feel free to add or omit ingredients based on what you have on hand or prefer!

  • Salmon: No leftover salmon on hand? No worries! I’ve included easy instructions for how to quickly steam raw salmon at home. Or, if you don’t feel like cooking salmon, you can simply use canned salmon or more smoked salmon instead.
  • Salmon roe: Looking for even more salmon flavor? Try garnishing your dip with salmon roe or salmon caviar.
  • Garlic: Do you have a garlic lover in your family? Throw in a clove of garlic for a touch of warm, earthy flavor.
  • Shallots: My favorite way to add a touch of mild garlic and onion flavor.
  • Celery: I’ve never met a dip that didn’t benefit from a touch of sweet celery freshness.
  • Horseradish: Add a spicy, slightly peppery kick to your dip by adding a teaspoon of prepared horseradish, just be sure to drain it first.
  • Tartar Sauce: Salmon and tartar sauce go hand in hand.
  • Capers: Love bright, briny flavors? Try tossing i1-2 tablespoons of capers into the dip or simply scatter some on top of the dip as a garnish.
  • Worcestershire: It may sound like an odd addition, but a dash of Worcestershire sauce will add a faint, yet delicious umami flavor.
  • Old Bay: Amp up the salty, smoky flavors by adding in some Old Bay seasoning.
  • Cajun Seasoning: Prefer bold Cajun seasoning to Old Bay – try that instead.
  • Chipotle Chili Powder: Like things spicy? Throw in a few shakes of chili powder.!
  • Tabasco: Give your salmon cream cheese spread a little kick by adding in some Tabasco sauce.
Overhead photo of cream cheese spread, flaked and cooked salmon, and chives in the bowl of a food processor - before being processed together.

How to make salmon dip with cream cheese

This easy dip is fool-proof to prepare and totally customizable! This recipe comes together in 10 minutes, so it’s perfect for everything from snacking to holiday entertaining!

  1. Whip Cream Cheese: Add the cream cheese to the bowl of a food processor. Process, until the cream cheese is completely softened and airy, about 5 seconds. Add the yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon, paprika and lemon juice. Process until smooth and combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary. (Note: If you don’t have a food processor you can use a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment or a hand-held blender on LOW)
  2. Add the smoked salmon, dill and lemon zest. Pulse, scraping the sides of the bowl as necessary, until the mixture is JUST combined, about 10-14 pulses.
  3. Add wild salmon and chives: Add the steamed (or leftover or canned) salmon pieces and the chives to the food processor. Pulse until just mixed, but don’t over-process – you want generous chunks of steamed salmon mixed in the creamy dip!
  4. Chill (optional for best taste): Transfer the dip to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour.
  5. Adjust for seasoning: Taste the dip and adjust with lemon, salt, pepper and fresh herbs if needed.
  6. Serve: Remove dip from refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs (dill + chives). Serve with toast, crackers, or chips and enjoy!

Expert tips for the best success!

  • Choose High-Quality Ingredients. Be sure to select fresh, high-quality smoked salmon and firm, moist wild salmon with a vibrant color for the best flavor.
  • Room Temperature Cream Cheese. For the richest cream cheese salmon dip, use a tub of whipped cream cheese (versus a block) and allow it to come to room temperature before mixing. This step ensures smooth blending and prevents a lumpy dip.
  • Add Creaminess with Greek Yogurt. For a creamier texture and a touch of tangy flavor, incorporate a little Greek yogurt or sour cream.
  • Texture Is Key. Be sure to just pulse the salmon into the salmon cream cheese spread for a chunky texture.
  • Chill for Flavor Development. Be sure to allow the completed dip to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This time gives the flavors an opportunity to meld together, which enhances the overall flavor.
  • Taste and Balance Flavors. Taste the salmon and cream cheese dip before serving and adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste.
  • Presentation Matters. You eat with your eyes first, so if you’re serving this salmon dip with cream cheese at a party consider serving it in a decorative bowl and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, slices of smoked salmon, and a dollop of salmon caviar. Serve with lemon wedges and crackers or bread slices on the side for dipping.

Step-by-step photos: making this recipe at home 

(Don’t forget to scroll down for the detailed measurements in the complete printable recipe at the bottom of the page.)

Overhead photo collage of how to make smoked salmon dip step by step with written instructions on each step.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! If you have a question you don’t see listed below, please drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 

What type of salmon can I use in this dip?

Most recipes for smoked salmon dip utilize vacuum sealed packages of smoked salmon. This recipe calls for 8 ounces of salmon. I like to use a combination of smoked salmon and freshly steamed wild salmon for the most robust, savory flavor; however, you can use whatever you have on hand (leftover salmon works great!), can easily find or simply prefer!

Smoked Salmon

Smoked salmon is a broad term for any salmon cured with hot or cold smoke. There are two different varieties of smoked salmon – cold and hot smoked. You can use either variety to make dip, depending upon your preference.

  • Cold smoked salmon, commonly referred to as ‘lox’, is dry-cured in a large amount salt to draw out moisture. Then, it’s cold-smoked at temperatures below 80-degrees F. The cold smoke doesn’t actually cook the fish, it preserves it, which gives the salmon an almost raw-like texture and salty, rich taste. You can typically find this type of salmon thinly sliced in flat, vacuum-sealed packs at the store. Tip: If you use cold-smoked salmon, taste the dip before adding any salt to it, as it may be unnecessary to add any salt.
  • On the other hand, hot smoked salmon is soaked in a wet brine (salty water) and then smoked at temperatures above 120-degrees F. The hot smoke cooks the salmon, which gives it a smokier flavor and flaky texture.

If you love smoked salmon, be sure to try this omelette with smoked salmon, bagels and lox recipe, or smoked salmon pasta recipe next.

Wild Salmon

The term wild salmon refers to any salmon caught in the wild. It is vibrant in color with a deep reddish-orange hue. Since wild salmon is free-roaming, it tends to be leaner than farm-raised with a more complex and savory salmon-y flavor. It’s important to note that the lean fat content also means you need to take care when cooking it. Overcooking wild salmon can cause it to dry it and become chalky in texture. Make sure you cook your wild salmon to medium-rare or medium at the very most. (I’ve included easy instructions for steaming salmon at home in the notes section of the recipe below!)

Farmed Salmon

Farm-raised salmon refers to salmon that is raised in some type of aquatic farming operation. Farm salmon is lighter in color than wild salmon, with a soft pink-orange hue. It’s generally fatty and mild in flavor. Since farm-fresh salmon has a higher fat content, it’s also a lot harder to overcook than wild salmon. If you prefer to cook your salmon a little more well done, then farm-fresh salmon is the best option for you! (I’ve included easy instructions for steaming salmon at home in the notes section of the recipe below!)

Canned Salmon

While smoked or fresh salmon is best, cans of salmon are a terrific option if you are looking to save a few dollars! Cooked salmon is available in several varieties and you can find them packaged in cans, tins or pouches. The most popular varieties are sockeye and wild pink. Sockeye salmon is flavorful and rich, whereas pink salmon is mild with a texture and taste similar to albacore tuna.

You can purchase canned salmon with or without skin and bones – both varieties have their advantages. Salmon with bones is more flavorful and contains extra vitamins and minerals; however, you will need to remove and discard and large bones of salmon before preparing the dip. Regardless of the type of salmon you select, make sure you pop the top and drain the salmon well if you are using cans of salmon.

What are some good substitutes for cream cheese?

Since cream cheese has a unique texture and flavor, it’s a little challenging to substitute it directly in smoked salmon dip. The best substitution option is Neufchatel cream cheese which contains 1/3 less fat than regular cream cheese. Just make sure it is softened to room temperature first.

However, if you prefer a lighter option try using you can use a combination of mascarpone cheese and Greek yogurt, which can provide a similar creamy texture and tanginess. Just note, you’ll need to adjust the ratios to achieve the desired consistency without compromising the taste.

How do I prevent the dip from becoming too salty?

Since smoked salmon is salty, this dip recipe actually doesn’t call for any additional salt. You’ll make the cream cheese salmon dip completely, then taste it, and season with salt accordingly.

Can I make salmon dip in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making this recipe for salmon cream cheese spread ahead of time, so the flavors have a chance to marry and meld.

You can prepare this smoked salmon dip recipe up to a few days ahead of time, which makes it a wonderful dish for picnics, potlucks and parties. However, the dip will firm up quite a bit in the fridge, so make sure you let it sit out at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

Close-up photo of salmon spread with cream cheese in a white bowl.

Serving cream cheese salmon dip

You can serve this dish as a spread for bagels, smear for sandwiches, or as a dip with crudités and crackers. Regardless how you serve it, salmon dip is best when you enjoy it *slightly* chilled. This cream cheese salmon dip will firm upon refrigeration, which works great if you are using it as a spread or smear for bagels. However, for a scoop-able dip, you will need to let it sit out at on the counter at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before enjoying.

Common serving suggestions

  • Delectable Spread: Serve salmon dip with cream cheese as a luxurious spread for artisanal slices and crusty breads. Spread it on homemade bagels, egg and avocado toast, and sourdough breads. Start your morning off right by slathering a bagel with salmon spread and then top it with pickled red onions, capers, and a few shakes of everything but the bagel seasoning for an extravagant breakfast.
  • Paired with Crudités: Present the dip alongside a vibrant array of seasonal crudités – think: mini bell peppers, carrots, cucumber slices, broccoli florets, cauliflower and celery – inviting guests to dip into a garden-fresh symphony of flavors and textures.
  • Canapés: Transform ordinary crostini crackers, pita chips, or even double garlic bread into extraordinary canapé appetizers by topping them with this creamy dip delight. Garnish the top with fresh microgreens for a touch of elegance.

Unique uses for salmon spread

  • Sandwich Spread: Swap out the traditional mayonnaise and mustard for this salmon cream cheese spread on sandwiches and wraps.
  • Salmon Dip Deviled Eggs: If you love salmon and hard boiled eggs, this delicious suggestion is for you. Swap out the deviled egg filling and use salmon cream cheese dip to stuff hand-boiled egg whites.
  • Cucumber Rounds: Slice a seedless cucumber into thick rounds and top with a scoop of velvety salmon cream cheese dip and a dollop of caviar.
  • Cherry Tomato Bite: Hallow out little cherry or grape tomatoes and fill the cavity with creamy salmon spread and a sprinkle of chives for a gourmet touch.
  • Potato Skin Topper: Craft next level potato skins by topping them with this decadent dip.
  • Brunch Spread: Impress guests by adding this spread to your next brunch spread with baked scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, and your favorite brunch sides.

Storing leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store this cream cheese salmon dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 to 4 days.
  • Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this salmon spread since it contains cream cheese and will negatively affect the texture once thawed. For best results, prepare and consume the salmon and cream cheese dip fresh or within 4 days.
Close-up photo of toasted crostini slices dipped into a bowl of salmon dip made with cream cheese.

Easy to throw together and even easier to devour, your family is sure to love this salmon cream cheese spread! Until next week, cheers!

Cheyanne

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More delicious appetizers with salmon!

If you love this creamy salmon spread, try one of these delicious recipes next!

Overhead photo of salmon dip with cream cheese garnished with lemon slices and fresh dill in a white serving bowl with crostini surrounding the bowl.

Salmon Dip with Cream Cheese

5 from 3 votes
Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Unleash the indulgent charm of Salmon Cream Cheese Dip, where creamy goodness meets the divine flavors of smoked salmon and wild salmon, fresh herbs, and tangy lemon. Elevate your entertaining with this effortless, yet impressive dip recipe that guarantees to leave a lasting, delicious impression!

Equipment

  • 1 Food Processor

Ingredients 

  • 1 (8-ounce) Tub Whipped Cream Cheese – at room temperature (can use block instead)
  • 1/3 Cup Greek Yogurt (or Sour Cream or Crème Fraiche)
  • 2 TBS Mayonnaise (use a good-quality for best taste)
  • 1 TBS Dijon Mustard
  • Heaping ¼ tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 4 ounces Smoked Salmon – roughly chopped (SEE NOTES)
  • 3 TBS Fresh Dill – roughly chopped ; plus more for garnish
  • 1 whole Lemon – 1 TBS Juice + 1 tsp Zest
  • 4 ounces Cooked Salmon – flaked into large chunks (preferably Wild Salmon) (SEE NOTES)
  • 2 ½ TBS roughly sliced Chives – plus more for garnish
  • To Taste Coarse Sea Salt & Ground Black Pepper
  • Serving Suggestions: Crostinis Baguette, Bagel Chips, Melba Toasts, Fresh Veggies (see post for full list)

Instructions

  • Whip the Cream Cheese: Add the cream cheese to the bowl of a food processor. Cover the bowl and then process until the cream cheese is completely softened and airy, about 1 to 2 minutes.
    Add the yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon, paprika and lemon juice. Process until smooth and combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
    (Note: If you don’t have a food processor you can use a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment or a hand-held blender on LOW)
  • Add the Smoked Salmon, Dill and Lemon Zest: To the food processor bowl, add the smoked salmon, dill, and lemon zest (DO NOT ADD the wild salmon). Pulse until the mixture is JUST combined, about 10-14 pulses, stopping and scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl as necessary,
  • Add Wild Salmon and Chives: To the food processor, add the steamed (or leftover or canned) salmon pieces and the chives. Cover the bowl and pulse until the ingredients are *just* mixed together, but don’t over-process – you want generous chunks of steamed salmon mixed in the creamy dip!
  • OPTIONAL, But Recommended – Chill: Transfer the salmon and cream cheese dip to a large bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Transfer the dip to the refrigerator and let chill for at least 1 hour.
    (Note: I recommend chilling the dip for a least an hour so the flavors have a chance to develop and marry together. However, the dip will get thicker as it sits in the refrigerator. So you'll want to let it sit on the counter at least 20 minutes before serving so it's scoop-able.)
  • Adjust Dip For Seasoning: Remove the bowl from the refrigerator, uncover, and taste the dip. Then, adjust the flavors to suit your personal tastebuds, adding salt and pepper for overall flavor, more fresh herbs for herbaceous flavor, more lemon for acid, and so on.
  • Serve Salmon Cream Cheese Dip: Garnish the top of the salmon dip with more fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges, toast, crackers, bread, veggies, or chips on side and enjoy!

Notes

  1. Smoked Salmon: You can use cold-smoked salmon (also referred to as Lox) or hot-smoked salmon in this recipe. If you use cold-smoked salmon, be careful with the amount of salt you add as lox can be slightly salty.
  2. Cooked or Leftover Salmon: You can use leftover salmon or cooked canned or tinned salmon in this dip! For the best taste I recommend using wild salmon and steaming it yourself – the process is super easy (see below)!
  3. Optional Mix-ins for Dip: Hot Sauce, Prepared Horseradish, Capers, Shallots, Celery (please see the article for a full list of delicious ingredients you can stir into this dip recipe)
  4. Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  5. Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 
To steam salmon at home: (you can steam salmon up to 3 days in advance)
  1. Add 1-inch of water to the pot and bring the water to a gentle boil.
  2. Season the salmon filet on both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Lightly oil a steamer basket and place the salmon in the steamer basket (skin side down). Cover the salmon with slices of lemon.
  3. Reduce the water to a rapid sipper and add the steamer basket to the pot. Cover and steam for 6 to 10 minutes, depending upon the thickness of the salmon. The salmon should be just cooked through and flake easily with a fork.
  4. Remove the salmon from the basket and transfer to a clean work surface to cool. Remove and discard the slices of lemon.
  5. Once cool enough to handle, lightly flake the salmon filet into large pieces.
How to steam salmon step by step photos:
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 12 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 75kcal    Carbohydrates: 3g    Protein: 6g    Fat: 5g    Saturated Fat: 2g    Trans Fat: 1g    Cholesterol: 18mg    Sodium: 201mg    Potassium: 133mg    Fiber: 1g    Sugar: 2g    Vitamin A: 142IU    Vitamin C: 5mg    Calcium: 40mg    Iron: 1mg
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American

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