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Easy Creamy Smoked Whitefish Dip

by lena

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Serve this crowd-pleasing Easy Creamy Smoked Whitefish Dip at all of your summer parties. Made with freshly smoked fish, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and a handful of seasonings, the tangy and smoky dip pairs beautifully with an array of crackers and vegetables.

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overhead view of white creamy fish dip in a bowl surrounded by cucumbers and crackers

Party-perfect smoked whitefish spread

Tender fish mixed with mayonnaise, cream cheese, and fresh lemon juice is the base of my Easy Creamy Smoked Whitefish Dip. Every bite is loaded with tang and smokiness, making for the most delicious and party-perfect seafood dip to serve with crackers, veggies, and bread!

This creamy and keto-friendly seafood dip will make you feel like you’re in the south with its rich and tangy flavor profile. It’s made with a handful of easy ingredients and can be served at parties, summer barbecues, or for a simple lunch. It even pairs well with fun add-ins if you’re craving more flavors and textures.

white creamy fish dip in a bowl surrounded by cucumbers and crackers

I like to include it on Charcuterie Boards with crisp veggies and crackers at parties and serve it as an appetizer before the grilled meats hit the table at barbecues. Spread the leftovers onto sandwiches for a delicious and hearty lunch the next day!

What type of fish is smoked whitefish?

Smoked whitefish, also known as Lake Whitefish (or Coregonus clupeaformis), is a type of fish that’s typically served in Jewish dishes, like salads or dips. You can almost always find whitefish at Jewish fish shops or at Whole Foods by the fishmonger.

Whitefish describes any type of freshwater fish that has white flesh, like trout, bass, and halibut. If you can’t find smoked whitefish, use another type of smoked whitefish in the seafood section at large grocery stores, local smoke shops, or specialty seafood stores. 

individual white bowls holding smoked fish, cream cheese, vegetables, mayonnaise, and seasonings

What do I need to make smoked whitefish dip?

  • Smoked whitefish – It doesn’t taste as salty or fishy as cured smoked fish, like cold smoked salmon. Instead, smoked whitefish tastes mild and savory, and pairs well with extra flavor enhancers.
  • Mayonnaise and cream cheese – To make the dip extra creamy. Make your own mayonnaise at home and use whipped cream cheese for the lightest, richest flavors.
  • Worcestershire sauce – The tangy and sweet flavors of Worcestershire sauce enhance the overall smokiness of this dip and create symmetry in every bite.
  • Lemon – You’ll need fresh lemon juice and zest.
  • Seasonings – Smoked paprika, fresh dill, and chopped red onion play with the flavors and add texture.
pieces of white fish in white bowls
fish dip ingredients in a food processor
blended white creamy dip in a food processor

How to make an easy whitefish spread

  1. Start by removing the skin and bones from the smoked fish.
  2. Next, add the cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice and zest, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika to a food processor. Blend until smooth.
  3. Add the fish, red onion, and dill next and pulse to combine. You can leave it a little chunky for texture or blend until it’s completely smooth.
  4. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and top it with smoked paprika and dill fronds. Serve with veggies, crackers, or toasted baguette, and enjoy!

Pro tip: Leave the finished whitefish dip covered in the fridge for 4 hours or overnight before serving. This will give all of the flavors time to get to know each other, creating an even more flavorful dip!

overhead view of white creamy fish dip in a bowl surrounded by cucumbers and crackers

More seafood dip add-ins

Looking to add even more texture and flavor to this smoky fish dip? Any of these extras would be delicious:

  • Jalapenos
  • Pepperoncinis
  • Celery
  • Green bell pepper
  • Boursin cheese
  • Capers
  • Avocado
  • Chives
  • Sour cream
  • Cayenne
close up on white creamy fish dip in a bowl surrounded by cucumbers and crackers

What can I eat with whitefish dip?

Seafood dip is tangy, smoky, and flavorful all on its own, meaning it pairs well with simple veggies and crackers on the side. I like to spread the dip onto toasted crostinis or enjoy it as a dip with homemade crackers, snap peas, carrots, and celery.

Are you serving this to a crowd? Top the dip with salmon roe, smoked paprika, roasted garlic, or olives for a beautiful presentation. It would make a great addition to an elegant charcuterie board as well!

The leftover dip goes great in lettuce cups, spread onto sandwiches, or in veggie wraps. Include a green salad on the side to complete the easy and light lunch.

womans hand dipping cucumber in a bowl of creamy white fish dip

How long does the whitefish dip last?

You can store the leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. I don’t recommend freezing it, as dairy is never quite as creamy or rich when it thaws.

More party-ready seafood recipes

  • Ahi Tuna Poke Nachos
  • Roasted Salmon Nicoise Salad
  • Lox and Bagel Brunch Board
  • Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Did you try this Easy Creamy Smoked Whitefish Dip? Let me know what you think in the comments below, or share a picture on Instagram! I love to share all of your recreations on my page.

Easy Creamy Smoked Whitefish Dip

4.1 from 64 votes
Prep Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Lena Gladstone
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate this Recipe
Serve this crowd-pleasing Easy Creamy Smoked Whitefish Dip at all of your summer parties. Made with freshly smoked fish, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and a handful of seasonings, the tangy and smoky dip pairs beautifully with an array of crackers and vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz smoked whitefish or smoked fish of choice
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 8 oz whipped cream cheese at room temperature
  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 3 tbsp red onion finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp dill finely chopped

Instructions

  • Remove the skin and bones from the fish.
  • In a food processor, add cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice and zest, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika and blend until smooth.
  • Add fish, finely chopped red onion and freshly chopped dill and pulse until combined. You want it to stay a little chunky or make it smooth if you prefer that consistency.
  • Remove to a bowl, top with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and dill fronds. Serve with veggies, crackers or toasted baguette.

Notes

  • To Store: Store the leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: 20 minute recipe, appetizer, dip, dipping, easy appetizer, healthy snack, party, party food, seafood, snack

Nutrition

Calories: 349kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 97mg | Sodium: 308mg | Potassium: 281mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 910IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 67mg | Iron: 1mg

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Recipe Rating




Reviews
Questions

Comments

  1. Sarah Martin

    at

    5 stars
    This recipe was absolutely delicious and easy to make. I would say my skill level is mediocre and this was simple and easy to follow along! Lena makes such beautiful and colorful dishes her page inspire me to get out of my comfort zone and try something new!
    Thank you !

    Reply
  2. Paul B

    at

    4 stars
    This is my second time with this recipe. We liked it the first time but wanted to try something different.
    If I wanted to add capers how many should I use?
    Thx

    Reply
    • lena

      at

      Hmm, I would say if you want to add any, chop them up and add maybe a teaspoon and half max. The saltiness will definitely be great, I would hold any salt until after you mix it in.

  3. Nicole

    at

    The recipe looks delicious! Do you think it’d be good heated with cheese on top? Thank you!

    Reply
    • lena

      at

      I would not add any cheese, it’s so good as is. I hope you try it as is. Thanks for asking.

  4. Bernie

    at

    5 stars
    I used salmon. And it’s awesome. I’ll use it for bagels. Thank you. The lemon zest is key but for salmon I may use orange next time. We will see. Thanks you

    Reply
    • lena

      at

      Ohh I am so happy you loved this recipe. Thank you for sharing your review.

  5. Jen Espenscheid

    at

    5 stars
    I used fresh parsley instead of dill. We loved it!

    Reply
    • lena

      at

      Yes!! So happy you are loving this recipe! Thank you!

  6. Marianna

    at

    5 stars
    That dip looks like it would pair perfectly with an ice cold beer. The smoky flavor is perfect with the fish too!

    Reply
    • lenaskitchen

      at

      Ohh yes, totally will and love the potato chips and cold veggies as the serving utensils for it.

    • lena

      at

      Thank you! Love to hear that.

  7. Tolan

    at

    5 stars
    This dip looks so delish! Perfect for the summer get together season!

    Reply
    • lena

      at

      Yes!! So happy you are loving this recipe! Thank you!

  8. Mahy Elamin

    at

    5 stars
    I love simple but delicious recipe. Your recipe looks tasty. I am gonna make it as soon as possible. My kids will love it too. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • lenaskitchen

      at

      So happy to hear that you are excited about the recipe. It’s so delicious and easy to make.

    • lena

      at

      Thank you! Love to hear that.

  9. Meghan McMorrow

    at

    5 stars
    That’s a wonderful dip, a perfect party pleaser!

    Reply
    • lenaskitchen

      at

      Thank you Meghan, so happy you think so. It’s a wondering dip.

    • lena

      at

      Yes!! So happy you are loving this recipe! Thank you!

  10. Mary

    at

    5 stars
    What a great recipe for my whole smoked whitefish! This dip, crackers, good wine and great friends!

    Reply
    • lena

      at

      Oh! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! It’s one of our absolute favorites.

  11. Julia Mazurchak

    at

    5 stars
    This smoke whitefish dip is the perfect appetizer for parties or to have while you are enjoying cocktails in the evening.

    Reply
    • lena

      at

      I am delighted that this recipe was enjoyed, thanks a lot for trying it out!

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Welcome, glad you’re here!

Hi, I’m Lena Gladstone, the recipe developer and food photographer behind Lena’s Kitchen. Here you will find approachable food recipes to share with the whole family. Keto friendly, weeknight dinners all made with fresh ingredients. Click here to learn more!

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