The 4-Ingredient Cream Cheese Dip My Family Has Made Since 1975

Updated: 02 Jan, 2026 • 0 • min read

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My journey with the state of Virginia began during my college application process in 2009. While searching for the right fit, I found myself in Colonial Williamsburg, at a small institution known as The College of William and Mary. Although I had never heard of the school or been to Virginia before, something about it felt destined. I didn't know anyone in the state, but I felt an undeniable pull toward this place.

It was a friend from college who introduced me to someone who would later become my boyfriend. He was a friend of hers from high school, and he had deep roots in Virginia. Our relationship blossomed, and soon I was at his parents' house trying something called Hot Virginia Dip. From that moment on, I knew we were meant to be together. My boyfriend eventually became my husband, not only because of his kind personality but also because I wanted to stay in a family where Hot Virginia Dip was a regular part of the holiday traditions.

What Makes Hot Virginia Dip Special?

Hot Virginia Dip has a rich history that dates back to 1975 when it was first published by the Junior League of Hampton Roads in their cookbook "Virginia Hospitality." It was a gift from my mother-in-law's mother, who gave each of her children a copy upon graduating from college. Since then, our family has made it every year, making it a cherished part of our holiday celebrations.

A Taste of Tradition

Hot Virginia Dip is a creamy, salty, and savory delight that relies on a unique ingredient: chipped beef. This pressed, salted, and dried meat product is sliced thinly like salami and often sold in a glass jar. If you haven't encountered chipped beef before, it might mean you didn't serve in the U.S. Army during the first half of the 20th century. That's where this long-lasting and nutritionally dense ingredient was commonly served, often mixed with cream and placed on toast in a dish affectionately called "Shit on a Shingle."

How to Make My 4-Ingredient Hot Virginia Dip

Creating Hot Virginia Dip is simple. Start by finely chopping a whole jar of chipped beef and mixing it with softened cream cheese, sour cream, and a few flavoring agents in a 2-quart baking dish.

The original recipe includes garlic salt and chopped onion, but I’ve simplified it to just four ingredients by omitting those. Add a few tablespoons of water or milk to thin the mixture, top it with finely chopped pecans, and bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until the pecans are toasted and the dip is hot.

Serving Tips for the Perfect Dip

When serving Hot Virginia Dip, it's best to pair it with plain, unsalted crackers. Carr’s water crackers are my favorite choice, as anything salted or buttery would overpower the rich, salty flavors of the dip. My in-laws make Hot Virginia Dip for their Christmas party every year, and it's one of the highlights of the event for me. I look forward to it more than any present.

I’m not sure how many requests Santa gets for chipped beef, but this year, there will definitely be at least one.

Where to Buy Chipped Beef

You can find Armour Star Sliced Dried Beef at Walmart for $3.86 for 2.25 ounces.

Do you have an easy holiday dip that you've been making for years? Share your story in the comments below.

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This post originally appeared on The Kitchn. Read the full article here: The Delicious Cream Cheese Dip My Family's Made Every Christmas Since 1975 (Just 4 Ingredients)

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