44 Creative Ways to Use Leftover Sour Cream

Indulge in the richness of sour cream with these mouth-watering recipes! If you’re stocked up on this tangy ingredient, fear not – it’s going to get used up in no time. With its light, thick, and creamy texture, sour cream is a versatile addition to any dish, whether it’s a main course, pasta, casserole, or even dessert.

In fact, we’ve curated an impressive collection of 41 delectable sour cream recipes for you to try. From savory options that will satisfy your cravings, to sweet treats that will delight your taste buds, there’s something for everyone in this comprehensive guide.

Chicken Enchiladas


The star of the show is undoubtedly the sour cream enchilada sauce, which pairs seamlessly with chicken tortilla wraps. This velvety condiment is a must-make – its buttery and creamy texture will captivate your senses from the very first bite. While you can cover your tortilla wraps with Monterrey Jack cheese, feel free to substitute mozzarella for added flavor and texture.

Creamy Chipotle Chicken


The tanginess of sauces infused with sour cream is unmatched in its ability to tantalize the taste buds. This creamy chipotle and tomato sauce is a testament to that notion, boasting a bold flavor profile that’s elevated by an ample amount of sour cream. The result is a velvety, savory coating that’s nothing short of sublime.

Creamy Potatoes


The humble spud is elevated to new heights when boiled to tender perfection and combined with a rich, velvety sauce. The foundation of this dish lies in a harmonious blend of one cup each of sour cream and milk, infused with the subtle richness of butter. A medley of sautéed onions and carefully selected spices and seasonings adds depth and complexity to the mixture, resulting in a truly indulgent treat.

BLT Salad


This BLT salad boasts a satisfying balance of flavors, with generous helpings of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and a creamy dressing made from a blend of sour cream and low-fat mayo. The inclusion of chives and dill adds a bright, refreshing quality that makes this dish an excellent way to add some extra nutritional value to your meals.

Hashbrown Casserole


Hashbrown casseroles often fly under the radar as a versatile meal option that can be enjoyed at both breakfast and dinner. The combination of savory flavors, rich butteriness, and chicken-infused goodness is undeniably appealing. When you add two cups each of creamy sour cream and melted cheese to the mix, it’s no wonder that these hashbrowns have earned their reputation as some of the most indulgent and satisfying ever created.

Rajas con Crema


Indulge in a luscious, velvety sauce infused with the deep flavors of roasted poblano peppers. This recipe relies on Monterey Jack cheese as its foundation, but feel free to substitute it with cheddar or Gruyere for added complexity. The key to achieving this silky texture lies in the judicious use of butter, which should be chosen over oil to ensure a rich and creamy consistency.

Green Bean Casserole


Indulge in the ultimate comfort food – a green bean casserole that’s bursting with flavor! Imagine a medley of creamy sour cream, rich cheddar and Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of your favorite spices, all harmoniously blended together. The crowning glory? A crispy fried onion topping, sprinkled with crushed buttery crackers for added crunch. This mouthwatering masterpiece is sure to be a crowd-pleaser on Christmas tables everywhere, satisfying even the most discerning palates.

Dijon Chicken


The union of chicken, Dijon mustard, and sour cream yields a velvety texture that elevates this dish to new heights. When you further incorporate the tanginess of Worcestershire and the subtle sweetness of honey, the flavor profile becomes even more complex and intriguing. To take it to the next level, consider topping with shaved Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, which will not only add visual appeal but also enhance the overall sensory experience.

Chicken Curry


Indulge in a hands-off culinary experience with this Instant Pot chicken curry recipe, which effortlessly blends flavors and textures. The addition of carrots and potatoes provides a satisfying starchiness, while curry, garlic, ginger, and tomato paste combine for an explosion of flavor. For an added twist, consider substituting sour cream for coconut cream – the resulting creamy texture will be elevated by the tangy undertones, guaranteeing a truly mouthwatering dish.

Garlic Chicken Soup


Indulge in the rich, velvety texture and deep flavors of this satisfying comfort food, as you’re unlikely to stop at just one serving. The hearty dish is further enhanced by the addition of carrots, parsnips, onions, and celery, providing a delightful medley of sweet and savory notes. While chicken thighs are used in this recipe, feel free to substitute with any part of the bird that suits your taste. And if you’re looking for an added layer of indulgence, consider incorporating egg noodles into the mix, taking the flavor profile to new heights.

Instant Pot Chicken Briyani


The iconic Indian rice dish is characterized by its bold flavors, with pungent garlic and a depth of taste courtesy of traditional Indian seasonings and the subtle nuance of bay leaves. While not an essential component, sour cream adds a much-appreciated tangy creaminess when used as a topping or incorporated into the dish immediately after cooking.

Pasta Recipes with Sour Cream

Sour cream pasta is about to take the spotlight, and it’s time to say goodbye to your usual heavy cream indulgences. With these mouthwatering recipes, you’ll be hooked on the tangy, creamy goodness that only sour cream can provide.

Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta


Experience the rich flavors of pasta stroganoff elevated to new heights with a decadent sour cream sauce that combines the savory goodness of beef and mushrooms with cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, fresh herbs, sautéed onions, and an abundance of aromatic garlic. The result is a dish that truly lives up to its tantalizing promise – a game-changing take on a classic that will leave you craving more.

Slow Cooker Taco Pasta


Taco pasta is a culinary masterpiece that lives up to its mouthwatering name. A medley of flavors and textures combines seamlessly, featuring ground beef, diced tomatoes, peppers, corn, and chiles. The crowning glory, however, lies in the judicious addition of melted cheese and tangy sour cream, which are elevated by the savory taco seasoning. This delightful dish is cooked low and slow in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensify, resulting in an unparalleled gastronomic experience. If you’re looking for more easy and delectable crockpot recipes, be sure to explore our collection.

Cabbage and Bacon Pasta


This mouthwatering pasta dish combines the smoky flavor of crispy bacon, the crunch of cabbage, the pungency of mustard, and the richness of sour cream for a truly satisfying meal. With its straightforward cooking method and uncomplicated ingredient list, this recipe is perfect for busy home cooks. The result is a vibrant, creamy, and tangy dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. To complete the meal, be sure to serve some crusty bread on the side.

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad


When it comes to satisfying lunches, pasta salads with sour cream and mayo are truly unbeatable. What’s more, these salads can be crafted using just a few fundamental ingredients. For instance, a combination of dill, pickles, onion, and diced cheddar can transform the humble shell pasta into a harmonious blend of creamy and tangy flavors. With such simplicity, it’s no wonder why this classic salad remains a lunchtime staple.

Classic Macaroni Salad


This pasta dish boasts an impressive medley of textures, featuring crunchy peppers, onions, peas, and celery. Its vibrant color palette is almost as satisfying as its flavor profile. The real showstopper, however, is the rich and creamy dressing, which expertly balances mayo, sour cream, and a surprisingly generous helping of pickle relish.

Creamy Bacon and Tomato Pasta Salad


Savor the harmonious blend of textures and flavors in this delectable pasta salad. The smoky crunch of bacon, the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the freshness of green peas, and the creaminess of cheddar cheese all come together in perfect harmony. A hint of tanginess from mayonnaise and sour cream adds depth, while a sprinkle of dry ranch dip mix lends an irresistible savory flavor that will leave you craving more with every bite. Whether it’s a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a refreshing snack, this pasta salad is sure to please any palate at any time of day.

Healthy Recipes with Sour Cream

Indulge in the rich flavors and creamy textures of sour cream while still reaping the rewards of a healthy diet with these nutritious recipe options that combine the tanginess you crave with the nutrition your body needs.

Carrot Leek Soup


This velvety leek and carrot soup sets the tone for every meal, serving as an exceptional opener. Its creamy texture makes it an equally delightful standalone option for lunch. A trifecta of flavors comes together through the addition of bright thyme, tangy sour cream, and a medley of sweet and earthy notes from the leeks and carrots. This recipe is sure to become a fall favorite, offering a deliciously healthy and satisfying soup experience.

Ensalada de Pollo


A medley of flavors is achieved by combining chicken and an assortment of vegetables in a tangy dressing featuring mustard and lemon’s bright zest, mixed with the richness of mayo and sour cream. The recipe leverages potatoes, peas, carrots, and corn as its foundation, relying heavily on starchy ingredients. However, this versatile dish can be tailored to suit individual tastes by substituting or adding preferred vegetables.

Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff


Indulge in the rich flavors of a classic beef stroganoff, minus the meat! This vegan variation uses tender mushrooms as its star ingredient, paired with creamy vegan butter and sour cream. Feel free to swap out these dairy-free alternatives for traditional dairy products if you prefer, and still enjoy a satisfyingly savory dish.

Zucchini and Yellow Squash Casserole


Imagine a harmonious blend of flavors and textures: the tanginess of sour cream, the richness of cheddar cheese, the earthy sweetness of zucchini and squash, all brought together by the warmth of butter and the comforting familiarity of celery soup. This indulgent side dish is a masterclass in balance, featuring an impressive array of ingredients including two generous sticks of butter, loads of cheddar cheese, a can of cream celery soup, a cup of sour cream, sliced zucchini and squash, and a package of stuffing. With its delightful combination of cheesy, creamy, crispy, and nutritious elements, this dish is sure to be the star of your next dinner get-together.

Baked Keto Salmon


Indulge in the rich flavors of baked salmon elevated by an extraordinary cream sauce, expertly crafted with a medley of fresh and savory ingredients. The harmonious blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and dill creates a refreshing yet creamy consistency, while subtle notes from Dijon mustard and garlic further enrich the dish’s complexity.

Keto Wedge Salad


Indulge in the harmonious union of crunchy lettuce, crispy bacon, and rich blue cheese dressing, where the only deviation from this delightful trio is the addition of creamy cheese. The true star of the show, however, lies within the dressing itself, as a medley of sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, and expertly chosen spices converge to create a velvety smooth accompaniment that elevates each bite to new heights.

Cranberry Bars


Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors and textures in these scrumptious sour cream cranberry bars. The crunchy foundation, comprised of sugar, butter, oats, and flour, provides a lovely contrast to the sweet and tangy cranberry and sour cream filling that will leave you craving more. It’s the perfect treat to satisfy your sudden sweet tooth.

Baking Recipes with Sour Cream

Infusing baked goods with sour cream can elevate their texture and flavor, imparting a delightful flaky quality and subtle tanginess. By incorporating this versatile ingredient, you can create a variety of scrumptious treats that showcase its unique properties.

Peach Cake


The essence of this delectable peach cake lies in its harmonious balance of softness, buttery richness, sweetness, fruity flavors, and a hint of tanginess. The crowning glory is the sprinkling of cinnamon sugar on top, which elevates the sweetness to new heights. For those who share a passion for warm spices, incorporating cinnamon into the batter can create a delightful synergy of flavors.

Lemon Souffle Cake


While individual cakes are always a crowd-pleaser, these scrumptious lemon treats will particularly impress guests with their sublime texture and refreshing flavor profile. The clever combination of gluten-free flour, sour cream, almond milk, and lemon juice yields a delightfully creamy and airy dessert that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to whip up, making them an excellent choice for a quick and impressive dessert solution.

Blackberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake


Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender and moist sour cream coffee cake, bursting with the tangy flavors of cream cheese and sweet blackberry filling. The crunch of toasted almonds adds a delightful textural element to each bite. This indulgent treat is equally well-suited for a leisurely brunch or a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up – its appeal is undeniable.

Peppermint Mocha Bread


Indulge in the rich aroma and flavor of our decadent chocolatey coffee bread, infused with a hint of refreshing peppermint notes. Be warned, this energizing treat packs a punch with its quarter-cup dose of granulated coffee – perfect for a morning pick-me-up or afternoon boost. To enhance the minty undertones, you can opt for either the intense essence of peppermint extract or the subtle nuance of chocolate peppermint chips.

Sugar Cookies


Indulge in the delightful combination of simple sugar cookies infused with the richness of sour cream, resulting in a crumbly, fluffy, and airy treat that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. The crowning glory is the finger-licking cream cheese frosting that adds an extra layer of indulgence. While it may be tempting to substitute the sour cream with something else, it’s essential to stick with this key ingredient as its unique properties are what give these cookies their signature texture and flavor.

Cinnamon Coffee Cake


Indulge in the harmonious union of cinnamon and coffee – a match made in heaven. This delectable cake is sure to elevate your coffee gatherings to new heights. The soft, fluffy texture is complemented by its rich flavor profile, while the sugary streusel layer adds a delightful contrast between the moist sponge layers. The crunchy chopped pecans on top provide a satisfying textural element, bringing a sense of completeness to each and every bite.

Sour Cream Donuts


Unlike the typical donuts that rely on yeast for their characteristic rise, these old-fashioned treats stand out with a rustic, cracked surface due to the absence of yeast. But despite their rough exterior, they possess an incredibly soft and satisfying texture. To make them even more irresistible, they’re typically dipped in a sweet vanilla glaze, which is why it’s no surprise you won’t be able to get enough of them.

Chocolate Pound Cake


Indulge in the rich flavors of our decadent sour cream pound cake, infused with the subtle bitterness of espresso powder and the velvety smoothness of butter. This moist masterpiece is then enveloped in a luxurious chocolate ganache coating, transforming it into a stunning centerpiece for any gathering or special occasion.

Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls


Imagine a tender, buttery, and sour cream-infused dough, generously sprinkled with vibrant hues of colorful toppings. The added dimension of sugary cinnamon provides a delightful contrast. To take it to the next level, a sweet and creamy cheese glaze is applied, adding an indulgent touch. For an optimal outcome, allow the dough to proof in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together and the textures to harmonize.

Dessert Recipes with Sour Cream

Indulge in the rich flavors of sour cream as you elevate your desserts to new heights. This versatile ingredient not only adds moisture but also balances the sweetness by introducing a subtle tanginess. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that complements sweet ingredients perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a classic dessert or something innovative, here are some exceptional recipes that showcase sour cream’s versatility.

Fresas con Crema


The quintessential summer indulgence is strawberries and cream – a timeless treat that never fails to quench our thirst for something sweet and satisfying. While the classic combination of fresh strawberries and whipped cream is a staple, there’s an added twist that elevates this dessert to new heights: the unexpected pairing of sour cream and condensed milk. For those who haven’t yet experienced this creamy concoction, it’s a game-changer that deserves a spot on your ‘must-try’ list.

Pound Cake


Indulge in the simplicity of a classic vanilla-flavored pound cake, expertly crafted within a bundt pan. The result is a dense, soft, and spongy masterpiece that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate when served with an assortment of fresh fruits and a dollop of whipped cream. To elevate this recipe to new heights, we recommend using full-fat sour cream for its rich and tangy flavor profile. As the seasons transition into autumn, this delectable dessert is transformed into a warm and inviting treat perfect for cozying up on crisp fall evenings.

Blintz Souffle with Blueberry Sauce


As the perfect soufflé should be, this dessert is characterized by its light, airy texture and subtle sweetness. The combination of cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream gives it an impressive level of creaminess. While orange juice adds a touch of brightness to the recipe, feel free to substitute with lemons if you prefer a tangier flavor profile. For more creative ways to incorporate cottage cheese into your baking, be sure to explore our collection of top-rated cottage cheese recipes.

Strawberry Fluff


Indulge in a refreshing treat that’s as delicious as it is vibrant – a strawberry jello bowl that bursts with flavor! This sweet delight combines an assortment of chopped fruits, including pineapples, mandarins, and strawberries, with the creaminess of sour cream, the fluffiness of whipped topping, and the sweetness of mini marshmallows. The best part? You can customize this recipe to your taste by swapping out the fruit for other options – canned fruit is a great substitute if you prefer.

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake


Indulge in the ultimate combination of sweet and savory with a strawberry cheesecake that boasts an irresistible crunch. This delightful dessert is a masterclass in textures, featuring the perfect balance between smooth and satisfying. While traditional recipes often rely on strawberry preserves and Jell-O powder for their signature flavor, feel free to experiment with pureed strawberries or strawberry jam as a substitute – the possibilities are endless!

Mango Ice Cream


To craft this refreshing treat, you’ll only require a mere four essential ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – simply substitute the mango for another soft and sweet fruit that you prefer, allowing you to tailor the flavor to your unique tastes.

Brownies


Once you’ve experienced the game-changing magic of baking brownies with sour cream, it’s unlikely you’ll ever go back to your old recipe again. The resulting treats are nothing short of exceptional – richly flavored, delightfully chewy, and indulgently satisfying. If you’re a fan of allowing the chocolatey goodness to shine through in its purest form, without the bitterness of cocoa powder muddling the mix, then these brownies will be your new go-to dessert.

Strawberries with Sour Cream and Brown Sugar


Indulge in the sweet simplicity of this strawberry delight, which can be whipped up in just 5 minutes flat. Simply wash and slice your strawberries to perfection, then top them with a dollop of creamy sour cream. To add an extra layer of depth to this treat, sprinkle a pinch of brown sugar on top – its rich, caramel-like flavor is the perfect complement to the sweetness of the strawberries.

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