Smoked Fish Dip

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This Smoked Fish Dip recipe is a savory and creamy spread made from smoked salmon or whitefish, mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, and Old Bay. This is a delicious and satisfying appetizer for seafood lovers.

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What is Smoked Fish Dip

It’s a popular appetizer or snack that is made by combining smoked fish with various ingredients to create a flavorful, creamy dip. The smoked fish is typically flaked or shredded and mixed with ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, herbs, and spices.

It is a popular dish in coastal regions and is often associated with Southern or Caribbean cuisine.

What Type of Fish to Use

The type of fish you choose will depend on your personal preference and the flavor profile you are looking for. If you want a dip with a strong, smoky flavor, you might choose salmon or mackerel. If you prefer a milder flavor, you might choose trout or whitefish like cod.

You can find smoked fish at most grocery stores. If you want to smoke your own fish, check out my Smoked Salmon and Smoked Cod recipes. I grab smoked salmon from Costco or Trader Joe’s.

Here are some popular fish options:

• Smoked salmon: This is a classic choice. It has a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with cream cheese and other ingredients.
• Trout: Trout has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that is enhanced by smoking.
• Mackerel: Mackerel has a strong, distinctive flavor that is well-suited for smoking. It is a popular choice for making fish dip in the Caribbean.
• Whitefish: Whitefish has a mild flavor that is enhanced by smoking.

How to Make Smoked Fish Dip

Full detailed instructions are below in the recipe card.

1. Combine smoked fish, mayo, plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, cream cheese, onions, garlic Old Bay Seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Serve immediately or chilled.

Substitutions/Variations in Flavor and Spices

• Fresh herbs: Dill, parsley, or chives can add a burst of flavor
• Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika.
• Citrus juice: Adding a splash of citrus juice, such as lemon or lime, can brighten up the flavor.
• Hot sauce: For those who like a little heat, adding a few dashes of hot sauce can give the dip a spicy kick.
• Bacon: Adding some crumbled bacon can add a smoky, salty flavor.
• Cheese: Adding goat cheese or gouda can add richness and depth of flavor.
• Air Fryer Roasted Garlic: Roasting garlic before adding it can give it a sweet, nutty flavor that complements the smokiness of the fish.
• Horseradish: Adding a dollop of horseradish can add a pungent, tangy flavor.
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning
• Cajun Rub and Seasoning
• Ranch Seasoning

What to Serve and Pair with the Dip

• Crackers
• Toasted Bread
• Vegetables: Carrot sticks, celery sticks, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes.
• Chips: Tortilla chips or potato chips are also great options for dipping.
• Crostini: Toasted baguette slices spread with olive oil or garlic butter are a tasty accompaniment.

Can You Make it Ahead of Time

Yes, the dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. In fact, many people prefer to make it ahead of time so that the flavors have time to meld together.

How to Store/How Long it Will Last

Store the dip in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. Before serving, give it a stir and taste it to make sure the flavors are still balanced. If the dip seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.

Can You Freeze It

It’s not the best dish for freezing. The texture of the dip may change once it’s thawed, and it may become watery or grainy. The cream cheese or other dairy products in the dip can also separate once frozen, resulting in a less desirable texture.

More Fish Recipes

Fish and Grits
Crispy Catfish Nuggets
Crispy Fish Sandwich
Blackened Catfish
Salmon Rice Bowl
Salmon Bites
Cod Fish Tacos
Nobu Miso Black Cod

Be sure to check out our guide on What Goes Well with Salmon and Best Side Dishes.