Prepare yourself for a cheesy bacon dip that will redefine your appetizer expectations!
This irresistibly creamy and addictive recipe combines cheddar, mozzarella, crispy bacon, and a luscious cream cheese base that will have everyone begging for more.
Get ready to discover how easy it is to create this bacon dream!
Ingredients
Let's gather our goodies for this super cheesy, bacon-loaded adventure! First, you'll need 12 ounces of bacon—chopped, of course! Next, grab 8 ounces of cream cheese; softened cream cheese is a must.
Now, stir in 1 cup of sour cream; I prefer full fat for extra creaminess! Don't forget 3/4 cup of mayonnaise—yes, it's a lot, but trust me! Throw in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. If you're feeling adventurous, onion powder will do.
Cheese time! I like 1 cup each of shredded tasty or cheddar and mozzarella—cheddar for flavor, mozzarella for stretch. For a similar taste and texture, consider adding potato skins.
Finally, we need about 4-5 chopped shallots or scallions, adding fresh zip that complements the rich, savory cheese. If you want, get a round cob bread, some crackers, and oil spray for the bread bowl.
Instructions
Now that we've assembled our ingredients, it is time to get cooking! I am excited. First up, cook your chopped bacon in a non-stick skillet over high heat until it's beautifully browned—because who doesn't love crispy bacon?! I'm hungry. Transfer that glorious bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess grease.
Next, grab a heat-proof bowl and mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and garlic powder. Now, stir in most of the bacon—remember you're going to save some for the topping—along with all the cheddar-mozzarella cheese and most of the chopped shallots. This recipe can be altered to create bite-sized treats by using the same ingredients and forming small truffle-like balls.
Microwave the whole bowl on high for 3 minutes. Don't panic if it looks like the oil separated; just stir it well, and it'll come right back together! I promise it will look delicious! Pour it into a serving bowl—leaving the bread bowl for later—then top with the reserved bacon and shallots.
Bread Bowl
Grab a small knife – carefully! – and cut a circle on top. Think you can remove enough bread to make a nice bowl deep enough for all the dip? I know you can!
Now, pour that cheesy, bacon-y goodness right into your bread bowl. Doesn't that look amazing? Almost done!
Next, crush those crackers, about 5 Jatz or Ritz should do the trick. Sprinkle them over the top. A bit of oil spray helps them get nice and golden in the oven.
Bake at 180C/350F for 20 minutes. The top should be golden brown and bubbly when finished. Top with remaining bacon and shallots. I'm telling you… your friends will love it!
Recipe Notes
Before you get started, it's great to know that a few tweaks can make this Cheese Bacon Dip even better!
I like to use a mix of cheeses—about 1 cup of tasty cheddar for that classic flavor, and another cup of mozzarella for the amazing stretch! Feel free to swap in Swiss, Gruyere, or anything melty and flavorful you love.
For that awesome crust on top, you know, instead of just letting it dry out, crush up about 5 Ritz crackers. Seriously, any savory cracker will work. Breadcrumbs and parmesan are magic, too.
Remember, this dip is best served warm so it's nice and creamy. Don't let it get cold! If you're making it ahead without the bread bowl, mix everything but don't microwave, you know? Heat it up when you're ready.
And hey, don't blame me if you devour the entire bread bowl!
Short Recipe Version
Cheese Bacon Dip Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size: 10-12
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped shallots
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra bacon and shallots for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon, shallots, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Sprinkle with extra bacon and shallots, if desired.
- Let cool slightly before serving with bread or veggies.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Estimated):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Protein: 10g