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This rich and easy Italian Cheese Spread recipe is the perfect appetizer for any gathering. Using just five main ingredients—sharp cheddar spread, cream cheese, Italian dressing mix, sour cream, and Parmesan—it comes together quickly and can be served as a creamy dip or shaped into an elegant, pecan-coated cheese log. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that stays fresh in the fridge for up to two weeks!

The Ultimate 5-Minute Italian Cheese Spread (Restaurant Copycat!)

Let’s be honest: sometimes you need a party appetizer that tastes unbelievably complex but took you almost zero effort to make.

Whether you are burnt out from holiday cooking, scrambling for a last-minute New Year’s Eve contribution, or just need something delicious for game day, this Italian Cheese Spread is your new secret weapon.

This recipe comes with a wonderful backstory. It’s actually a copycat recipe from a beloved local restaurant that used to serve a small crock of this addictive spread alongside club crackers at every table before the meal. When the restaurant finally closed its doors, they shared the secret recipe with their loyal customers.

The magic here lies in the combination. It blends the distinct bite of sharp cheddar spread with the tang of cream cheese, all brought to life by a packet of zesty Italian dressing mix. It’s creamy, savory, and impossible to stop eating after just one cracker.

Best of all? It requires absolutely no cooking, comes together in about five minutes, and can be served as a rustic dip or dressed up as an elegant cheese log. Let’s get mixing!

Party-Perfect Italian Cheese Spread

Prep time: 10 minutes | Chill time: Optional | Yields: Approx. 2 cups

Ingredients

8 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese Spread (about 2/3 of a standard 12 oz tub).
- Note: The original restaurant recipe recommends the Kaukauna brand sharp cheddar spread for authentic flavor.
8 oz Cream Cheese (one standard brick)
1 packet (approx. 0.7 oz) Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (like Good Seasons)
1 tbsp Sour Cream
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (or a Parmesan/Romano blend)
For Serving: Club crackers or your favorite sturdy cracker.

Optional (For Cheese Log Version):

1/2 cup Pecan meal or finely chopped pecans.

Instructions

1. The Crucial Prep Step Before you begin, set your cream cheese and the sharp cheddar cheese spread out on the counter for at least 30 minutes. Getting them to room temperature is essential for ensuring they blend smoothly without lumps.

2. Combine the Base In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened sharp cheddar spread and the softened cream cheese.

3. Add the Flavor Dump in the dry Italian salad dressing mix, the tablespoon of sour cream, and the grated Parmesan cheese.

4. Mix Thoroughly Using a hand mixer (or a sturdy spoon and some elbow grease), blend everything together until the mixture is completely uniform and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all that zesty Italian seasoning gets incorporated.

5. How to Serve (Two Ways)

Method A: The Classic Dip (Quickest) Scoop the mixture immediately into a serving bowl or crock. Surround it with club crackers and provide a small spreader knife.
Method B: The Elegant Cheese Log If you want a fancier presentation, pop the mixing bowl into the fridge for 30–60 minutes so the mixture stiffens up. Once chilled, scoop the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap and use the wrap to shape it into a log. Spread the pecan meal (or chopped nuts) onto a sheet of parchment paper and roll the cheese log in the nuts until fully coated. Serve chilled with crackers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What exactly is “Sharp Cheddar Cheese Spread”? Can I use shredded cheddar? A: Do not use shredded cheddar for this recipe! You need the prepared, spreadable cheese usually found in tubs or tubs near the deli section of the grocery store. The recipe specifically recommends the Kaukauna brand (often found in Wisconsin or the Midwest), but brands like Merkt’s or even generic store-brand “pub cheese” spreads will work.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes, and you actually should! While you can eat it immediately, the flavors meld together beautifully after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. It’s the perfect “make-the-day-before” appetizer.

Q: How long does this store in the fridge? A: This is one of the best features of this recipe. Kept in an airtight container, this spread will last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. You can make a big batch for one party and save the rest for another event later in the week.

Q: It’s too hard to scoop straight out of the fridge. What do I do? A: Because of the cream cheese and cheddar base, it will firm up significantly when chilled. For the best texture, take the dip (or the log) out of the refrigerator about 20 to 30 minutes before serving to let it soften slightly.

Q: I don’t like pecans. What else can I roll the cheese log in? A: Absolutely. If you are making the log version but dislike nuts or have an allergy, you can roll the exterior in fresh chopped parsley, dried chives, bacon bits, or even toasted breadcrumbs.