Mississippi Dip
Mississippi Dip is the kind of crowd-pleasing appetizer that transforms any gathering into something special. With its creamy base of sour cream and mayonnaise, it delivers richness and smoothness, while the au jus and onion dip mixes create layers of savory, umami depth.
The addition of pepperoncini peppers and their tangy brine gives the dip a lively kick—zesty, mildly spicy, and impossible to resist. Perfectly balanced between creamy, savory, and tangy, this dip is more than just a snack—it’s a flavor-packed experience designed for sharing.
Whether scooped with potato chips, crisp veggies, or toasted crostini, every bite offers a taste of comfort with a Southern flair.
Why People Will Love This Mississippi Dip Recipe:
Rich and creamy texture – The blend of sour cream and mayonnaise creates a silky, indulgent base that makes each bite smooth and satisfying.
Layers of savory depth – The au jus mix and onion dip mix add bold, meaty undertones and classic onion flavor that keep the taste complex and addictive.
Bright, tangy kick – Chopped pepperoncini peppers and their brine bring a zesty punch that cuts through the richness and keeps the dip lively.
Perfectly balanced flavors – Creaminess, savoriness, tanginess, and spice come together in harmony, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Ideal for gatherings – Whether paired with potato chips, fresh vegetables, or crostini, it’s a versatile dip that instantly elevates parties, game days, or casual family nights.
Key Ingredients:
Sour cream – The creamy backbone of the dip, lending a smooth, cooling richness that anchors the bold flavors.
Mayonnaise – Adds body and tangy depth, making the dip velvety and indulgent.
Au jus mix – Infuses a savory, meaty essence reminiscent of slow-cooked roasts, giving the dip a hearty backbone.
Onion dip mix – Brings classic, nostalgic flavor with a punch of onion that makes the dip instantly familiar and comforting.
Pepperoncini peppers and brine – Provide a lively tang and gentle heat, cutting through the creaminess with a refreshing zing.
Garlic powder and black pepper – Subtle but essential, these spices round out the dip with aromatic warmth and balanced seasoning.
Expert Tips:
Let it rest before serving – This dip truly improves with time. Chill it for at least 30 minutes (or overnight, if possible) so the flavors of onion, garlic, and pepperoncini fully meld into the creamy base.
Balance the tang – If the dip tastes too sharp from the vinegar in the brine, mellow it out with a spoonful of sour cream or a drizzle of honey to round the flavor.
Texture matters – Chop the pepperoncini finely if you want a smoother, more uniform dip, or leave them chunky for bursts of tangy heat in every bite.
Choose the right dipper – Potato chips are classic, but pairing with sturdy crostini, pretzels, or crisp vegetable sticks (like carrots or celery) makes the dip more versatile and crowd-friendly.
Customize the heat – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or even diced jalapeños if you want the dip to lean spicier without losing its creamy balance.
Mississippi Dip
Ingredients
Sour cream – 1 tub (16 ounces), creamy base of the dip
Mayonnaise – ½ cup, adds richness and tang
Au jus mix – 1 packet (1 ounce), for savory depth
Onion dip mix – 1 packet (1 ounce), enhances flavor with a classic onion kick
Pepperoncini peppers – ¾ cup, drained and roughly chopped, for a mild heat and tang
Pepperoncini brine – 2 tablespoons, adds zesty punch and ties flavors together
Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon, for subtle aromatic flavor
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon, freshly ground for seasoning balance
Potato chips – for dipping (or swap with veggie sticks or crostini)
Instructions
1. Mix the dip
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, au jus mix, onion dip mix, chopped pepperoncini, pepperoncini brine, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Stir until everything is evenly blended.
2. Chill to develop flavor
Spoon the mixture into a serving dish, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Serve and enjoy
Serve chilled with potato chips, fresh veggie sticks, or crispy crostini for dipping.
Important Notes When Making Mississippi Dip:
Quality of the base matters – Use full-fat sour cream and real mayonnaise for the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Low-fat versions can make the dip thinner and less stable.
Flavor packet intensity – Both the au jus and onion dip mixes are heavily seasoned. Taste before adding extra salt, as the dip can easily become overly salty if you don’t adjust carefully.
Brine is powerful – The pepperoncini brine adds tang and zest, but it can dominate if you pour too much. Start with 2 tablespoons, then adjust slowly to your taste.
Serving temperature – This dip is best enjoyed chilled, not warm. The cool temperature enhances the sharpness of the onion and garlic while balancing the tang of the pepperoncini.
Shelf life and storage – Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Stir well before serving again, as liquid separation is normal.
How To Enjoy Mississippi Dip After Making:
Right After Chilling
Stir before serving – Once the dip has rested in the fridge, give it a gentle stir to recombine any separated ingredients. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Taste check – Sample a small spoonful and adjust if needed. Add a pinch of black pepper for more bite or a splash of pepperoncini brine for tang.
Serving Suggestions
Classic pairing – Present with a big bowl of sturdy potato chips, which balance the creamy dip with their salty crunch.
Veggie lovers’ option – Offer carrot sticks, celery, bell pepper strips, or cucumber rounds for a fresher, lighter contrast.
Rustic approach – Serve with toasted crostini, baguette slices, or crackers to add a gourmet touch to casual snacking.
Party style – Place the dip at the center of a platter surrounded by colorful dippers to make it visually inviting.
Enhancing the Experience
Garnish with color – Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or extra pepperoncini on top to brighten its appearance.
Temperature matters – Keep it cold throughout your gathering by serving over a chilled platter or bowl. If left out, return it to the fridge after 2 hours for food safety.
Balanced bites – Remind guests to scoop with a sturdy chip or thicker veggie slice to capture the creamy dip without breaking.
Pairings to Elevate the Dip
Drinks – Pairs wonderfully with light beers, sparkling water with lime, or even a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Meals – Use leftovers as a flavorful spread on burgers, sandwiches, or wraps for an unexpected tangy twist.
Enjoying Later
Storage – Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Refreshing the dip – If it thickens too much, stir in a teaspoon of sour cream or a splash of brine to loosen it.
Creative reuse – Try spooning a dollop onto baked potatoes, tacos, or grilled meats to transform it from a dip into a condiment.
Nutrition Information:
For Mississippi Dip (per serving, about 2 tablespoons):
Calories: 95 kcal | Total Fat: 8.3 g | Saturated Fat: 2.6 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3.1 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.1 g | Cholesterol: 12 mg | Sodium: 280–320 mg (depending on added salt & mix brands) | Total Carbohydrates: 4.6 g | Dietary Fiber: 0.2 g | Sugars: 2.2 g | Protein: 1.1 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make Mississippi Dip ahead of time?
Yes! This dip tastes even better when made a few hours or a day in advance. Allowing it to chill overnight gives the flavors time to fully meld together. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until serving.
What can I serve with Mississippi Dip besides potato chips?
While potato chips are the classic pairing, this dip also works wonderfully with crostini, pretzels, pita chips, or veggie sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It can even double as a spread for sandwiches or sliders.
How spicy is this dip, and how can I adjust the heat level?
The spice level comes mainly from the pepperoncini peppers. For a milder dip, use fewer peppers or omit the brine. For more heat, add extra chopped peppers, a dash of hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños.
Can I make this dip lighter or healthier?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for part (or all) of the sour cream, and use light mayonnaise. This will lower calories and fat while keeping the creamy texture and tangy flavor.
How long does Mississippi Dip last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the dip will stay fresh for about 3–4 days. Stir well before serving again, as some liquid may separate after sitting.
Do I need to use both sour cream and mayonnaise, or can I substitute one?
The combination of sour cream and mayonnaise creates the perfect balance of tangy and creamy. However, you can use all sour cream for a lighter, tangier dip, or all mayonnaise for a richer, heavier dip. Greek yogurt is also a good substitute for sour cream.
Can I use fresh peppers instead of jarred pepperoncini?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different. Fresh peppers don’t provide the same tangy brine. If using fresh peppers, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the zesty punch from the pepperoncini brine.
How do I prevent the dip from becoming too salty?
Since both the au jus mix and onion dip mix already contain sodium, taste the mixture before adding extra salt. If you prefer a lower-sodium version, use reduced-sodium mixes or balance with more sour cream to dilute the saltiness.
Can I make this dip thicker or thinner depending on preference?
Yes. For a thicker dip, reduce the mayonnaise slightly or add more sour cream. For a thinner consistency, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk, cream, or even extra pepperoncini brine until it reaches your desired texture.
Should I let the dip rest before serving, or can it be eaten right away?
Technically, you can eat it right after mixing, but for the best flavor, let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the onion mix, au jus, and pepperoncini flavors to fully infuse into the creamy base.