Making sour cream from scratch only requires three ingredients: milk, distilled white vinegar, and heavy cream.

Sour cream is one of those universal ingredients that pops up in both savory and sweet dishes.

In other words, it’s probably a pretty indispensable part of your cooking repertoire.

homemade sour cream

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If you run out, you might make a sour cream substitute with no cooking and very little effort.

Here’s everything you’re gonna wanna know to make your own sour cream from scratch.

Pour the heavy cream into a jar, then add the milk and vinegar mixture.

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

Chris Court

Let the cream stand for at least 24 hours at room temperature, or up to 48 hours.

This will give the lactic acid bacteria time to ferment, thicken, and sour the cream.

The acidity of the mixture will prevent the dairy from spoilage.

Caramelized shallot dip is served with potato chips and sliced cucumber.

Greg DuPree

Chill prior to serving.

What Recipes Can I Use This Sour Cream Substitute For?

Adding sour cream to your mashed potatoes (alongside plenty of butter and cream) makes them even richer.

Chicken Paprikash Soup

Antonis Achilleos

Caramelized Shallot Dip

Sour cream is absolutely essential for dips.

This tasty version features caramelized shallots for a sweeter take on the classic onion dip.

Chicken Paprikash Soup

The classic Hungarian dishfeaturing sour cream and paprikamakes a lovely and easy weeknight meal.

Sheet Pan Pavlova

Greg DuPree

Sheet Pan Pavlova With Berries and Mangoes

Pavlova may seem intimidating (all that meringue!

), but it’s pretty easy to put together.

Creamy Smoked Fish Dip

Seafood has become a hot appetizer option.

Smoked Fish Dip

(Just look at theseacuterie trend!)

Its creaminess comes from a generous dollop of sour cream.

Mayo works best in dips, sauces, and baked goods.

0324DINN-Creamy Enchilada Soup

Jennifer Causey, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

Think 3/4 cup of buttermilk for every cup of sour cream.

Consider adding a little in with Greek yogurt as part of a breakfast parfait to make it even creamier.

and use it to make a spread for sandwiches or a dip for veggies.

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Greg DuPree