I learned to roll out biscuit dough on my grandmother’s kitchen table while the smell of coffee and cinnamon cake filled the house. Those slow, steady hands taught me that the best recipes live in little rituals a squeeze of lemon, a pinch more salt, the way you let a dip rest so the flavors get comfortable with one another. This Spicy Feta Dip feels like that: bold, cozy, and the sort of thing you scoop with a crusty piece of bread while a pot of stew simmers nearby.
I’m Maggie Hart, a 58-year-old home cook from Louisville who grew up with church potlucks, dog-eared recipe cards, and a pantry always ready for company. I started Gemmir Kitchen to share the food I cook for my family simple, honest dishes that don’t fuss over technique but do honor flavor.
I learned at my mother’s side, testing casseroles on weeknights and leaning on tried-and-true methods that work in real kitchens. My cooking steers clear of pork by default and focuses on easy swaps that make busy nights taste like comfort. I walk readers through step-by-step with warmth and plain talk, so you don’t need fancy gear to make something memorable. If you love cozy skillet dinners, nostalgic desserts, and dips that pull a crowd, you’ll find a lot to love here.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why you’ll love this dish
This Spicy Feta Dip hits the sweet spot between tangy and fiery in a way that feels both Mediterranean and homey. It blends crumbly feta and soft cream cheese into a silky base, then wakes it up with lemon, dill, garlic, and a confident sprinkle of red pepper flakes. The texture invites scooping; the flavor begs for seconds. I make this Spicy Feta Dip when guests come by and when I want a little lift for weekday dinner. It pairs with pita, crunchy veg, or warm flatbread and keeps well enough to serve over a few days. The feta gives a salty backbone while the cream cheese smooths things out, so every bite carries creaminess and snap.
You’ll find this Spicy Feta Dip quick to make and forgiving to tweak. Add more red pepper flakes for a bold kick or tone it down for family-friendly snacking. I like to let it chill a bit so the lemon brightens without overpowering the herbs. If you’ve enjoyed my other dips, you might compare the rhythm of this recipe to my take on lighter spreads it’s that same kind of comfort, just a touch sharper. If you want ideas for pairing, my Booty Dip recipe pairing notes can spark ways to serve this Spicy Feta Dip alongside other nibbles for a full spread.
How this recipe comes together
Making Spicy Feta Dip brings together a handful of pantry staples with a few fresh touches, and it comes together faster than you might expect. Start with room-temperature cream cheese so it blends smoothly with the feta. Pulse the cheeses together until uniform, then drizzle in olive oil while the motor runs to achieve that glossy texture. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill last so the flavors stay bright and clean. Finish with red pepper flakes to taste and a crack of black pepper for balance. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors relax and marry; resting makes the heat more rounded and the lemon less strident.
This Spicy Feta Dip keeps beautifully, so you can make it ahead for parties or weeknight meals. When I prep ahead, I tuck it in the fridge and bring it out an hour before serving to take the chill off. Spoon it into a shallow bowl and drizzle a little extra olive oil on top just before serving for a glossy, inviting finish.
If you want to vary texture, you can fold in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for tang or a drizzle of honey for contrast. For guidance on how I like to build a snack board around a dip, take a peek at my Booty Dip recipe spread ideas the same principles help with serving a Spicy Feta Dip for guests.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Gather all your ingredients and allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta cheese and softened cream cheese. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until fully incorporated. Then add the red pepper flakes, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, black pepper, and salt. Blend until everything is well combined and creamy.
Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or red pepper flakes according to your preference.
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or as a topping for grains bowls and salads.
Serving ideas
This Spicy Feta Dip shines as a starter, a snack, or a component in a larger spread. Serve it with warm pita or crispy pita chips for a classic pairing, or offer an array of raw vegetables cucumber, carrot sticks, bell pepper strips for a lighter option. The dip works beautifully spooned over roasted vegetables or as a tangy counterpoint on a grain bowl. Dollop it on top of grilled chicken or fish when you want a bold little finish, or use it as a creamy sandwich spread in place of mayo to lift a simple lunch.
For a party, build a balanced board: place the Spicy Feta Dip in a shallow bowl, drizzle olive oil, and scatter a few red pepper flakes on top. Surround it with olives, roasted nuts, slices of hard cheese, and crusty bread. If you like contrast, add sweet elements like roasted grapes or a honeycomb for guests to experiment with sweet and spicy bites. I often pair this Spicy Feta Dip with marinated tomatoes and a handful of fresh herbs; the brightness helps the dip sing. If you serve the dip alongside other spreads, try offering varying textures one creamy, one chunky, and one briny so guests can mix and match flavors.
Storing this recipe
You can store Spicy Feta Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors mellow as it rests, and the heat from the red pepper flakes becomes more integrated with time. When you plan to keep leftovers, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the container to minimize air exposure and preserve color. If the dip firms up too much after chilling, stir in a teaspoon or two of olive oil or a tablespoon of plain yogurt to loosen it before serving.
Freezing is not ideal for this Spicy Feta Dip because the texture can change after thawing; the dairy may separate slightly and become grainy. If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container and expect some change in mouthfeel; thaw slowly in the fridge and whisk vigorously to re-emulsify. For best results, prepare only what you need for a few days of snacking. When reheating is necessary, warm gently in a microwave at low power or over a double boiler, stirring often to keep the texture smooth.
Helpful tips
Use a food processor to reach a velvety texture quickly, but if you don’t have one, beat the soft cheeses by hand with a sturdy whisk or an electric mixer until smooth, then fold in the remaining ingredients. For a brighter lemon note, grate a little lemon zest in addition to the juice. Taste as you go; feta can vary in saltiness, so balance accordingly. If you plan to serve this Spicy Feta Dip to children or those sensitive to heat, start with the lower measure of red pepper flakes and offer extra on the side for adults.
Choose a good-quality olive oil its flavor shows in the final dip. Fresh dill keeps the dip lively, but if you only have dried, use less and allow the dip to rest longer so the dried herb hydrates. If you want a creamier finish, swap half the cream cheese for plain Greek yogurt, but remember that will change the tang and moisture. When plating, a final drizzle of olive oil, a scatter of pepper flakes, and a sprig of dill make a simple dish feel special. For layout ideas and complementary recipes, see my Booty Dip recipe suggestions which pair well when you host.
Flavor variations
The Spicy Feta Dip adapts easily to additions and swaps. For smoky depth, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or fold in a small amount of roasted red peppers. If you prefer herb-forward flavors, mix in chopped mint or parsley alongside dill. For a chunkier texture, reserve a quarter cup of the crumbled feta and stir it in after blending so you get both creamy and chunky bites. For a Mediterranean twist, fold in a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
If you want a dairy-free twist, try blending silken tofu with lemon, garlic, olive oil, and miso for a tangy, protein-rich spread that mimics the salty, creamy nature of the original. Adjust the seasoning and texture to taste. For guests who like heat, roasted chiles or a spoonful of harissa can replace or complement the red pepper flakes. These swaps keep the spirit of the Spicy Feta Dip while tailoring it to your pantry and palate.
Common questions
Q: Can I make Spicy Feta Dip ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can make the Spicy Feta Dip up to 48 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Making it ahead lets the flavors soften and meld, which often improves the final result. Just bring it to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving and give it a quick stir. If it seems firm, add a little olive oil and stir to loosen the texture.
Q: How spicy is this dip, and can I adjust it?
A: The heat level in Spicy Feta Dip comes from red pepper flakes and you can scale it easily. Start with one teaspoon if you want a mild kick, and add up to two teaspoons for more heat. For a smoky variation without too much heat, use smoked paprika along with a milder touch of red pepper flakes. Remember that chilling mellows spice, so it will taste less hot after resting.
Q: What should I serve with this dip for a party?
A: Serve the Spicy Feta Dip with an assortment of textures: warm pita or flatbread, crunchy pita chips, crisp vegetables, and crusty bread. Add olives, roasted nuts, and sliced cheeses for variety. If you like, include a couple of complimentary spreads something herb-forward and something sweet so guests can explore combinations. For specific board-building ideas, my Booty Dip recipe board ideas shows the kind of variety that pairs well with a bold dip like this.
Conclusion
This Spicy Feta Dip brings bright lemon, tangy feta, and a confident touch of heat together in a creamy, scoopable spread that’s perfect for casual gatherings and weeknight flavor boosts alike. It adapts well to substitutions, keeps for a few days, and scales easily when you host. If you want a classic rendition and inspiration from a different kitchen, check out this detailed version: Spicy Feta Dip (Greek Tirokafteri Recipe) – Eating European.
Print
Spicy Feta Dip
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and bold Spicy Feta Dip that combines tangy feta and smooth cream cheese, perfect for scooping with pita or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
- In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta cheese and softened cream cheese. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until fully incorporated. Then add the red pepper flakes, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, black pepper, and salt. Blend until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or as a topping for grains bowls and salads.
Notes
For a creamier finish, swap half the cream cheese for plain Greek yogurt. Adjust the heat by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean